Can I Get Rid of Termites Myself?

When it comes to dealing with any pest infestation, too many people make the mistake of believing they can get rid of the pests on their own. This is never a smart route, especially when it comes to termites! Treating termites is not a DIY project, as colonies can be hidden anywhere in or near your home and often in areas you can’t access. Termite treatment requires the knowledge, experience, and skills possessed by a professional who can effectively find and control any termites in your property.

The Drawbacks of DIY Termite Treatments

Many people make the mistake of believing they can successfully get rid of termites on their own, especially with so many articles on the internet claiming the various ways to do so. Some of these methods include traps and baiting, orange oil, heat treatments, boric acid, all-natural techniques, and more; while some of these may be effective for prevention purposes, they’re rarely enough. Termites are notoriously tricky to get rid of because they are often hidden in areas around or in the home that aren’t easily accessible. Furthermore, getting rid of an entire colony requires eliminating the queen termite, which always takes the trained skill of a professional.

Can I Prevent Termites Myself?

While you should leave treatment to the professionals, it’s actually recommended by most pest control companies to actively implement preventative measures to keep termites away in the first place. Some tips to keep termites at bay include:

• Avoid having any wood in contact with the soil.
• Make sure any lumber around your home is treated to deter termites, or store it above the ground.
• Eliminate decaying or rotting sources of wood inside and outside the home.
• Make sure to eliminate sources of standing water, and fix leaky pipes or faucets in a timely manner.
• Regularly check for the common signs of termites in and around the home throughout the year.

When to Call a Professional for Termite Treatment

As soon as you notice the signs of termites in your property, it’s time to call a professional pest control company. Although you might see articles online about DIY termite control, it simply is not an option when you already have an infestation. Termite colonies can extend hundreds of feet from your building, tunneling and nesting deep within the soil. With a pest problem that is this widespread, you need professional help in order to protect the very structure of your home.