Termites are destructive pests. They cost U.S. property owners billions of dollars every year. If you live in Chandler, you need to be aware of the threat termites can present to your property and know what termite prevention methods work best. Let’s take a look at DIY termite control, discuss the challenges, and zero in on what works best to prevent termite infestations in Chandler properties.
What Do Chandler Residents Do To Stop Termites?
In our area, we primarily battle two types of termites. They are subterranean termites and drywood termites. Residents use methods that are described as being best for the type of termite being controlled.
Subterranean Termites — If a resident notices mud tubes on their home, they may learn that subterranean termites are the termites that cause those tubes. This can lead them to use products designed to address this type of termite, such as liquid termiticides or bait stations. They may also use many home remedies offered by the internet pest control “experts,” but we’re not going to go into those today. Let’s assume you choose one of these two methods, which professionals use. Are you all set? Maybe. But, maybe not. If you choose a product that has a transfer effect, it may get the job done. The problem is that you won’t know if it does or not. Professionals use field-tested application strategies and an inspection process to ensure control. This is sorely missing when DIY treatments are applied.
Drywood Termites — If a resident notices frass leaking out of a gap or crack, they may learn that drywood termites are the termites that produce this material. This can lead them to use products that are supposed to work against this type of termite. Since drywood termites don’t come up from the ground or live in the ground, bait isn’t an option. Residents find themselves directed to liquid products. If you go to an authoritative article on the subject and get expert advice on which products work best, you’ll notice the word: If correctly applied… The problem isn’t as much the products as it is the application. Once again, professionals use methods that have been developed through years of expertise.
What Happens When A Termite Infestation Isn’t Corrected
If you attempt to do your own termite treatment and you select products that work, your termite treatment can still fail. The products can fail to reach the termites. Termites can avoid them or the products can break down due to weather conditions. When they fail, how will you know? The problem is that you’re not likely to know until it’s too late. You may start to notice that your hardwood floors are starting to buckle or that your kitchen walls are bulging. Doors may start to stick. Windows may start to open and close freely. When these signs appear, the damage is already done. This is the primary problem with treating termites yourself. Even if you make the right decisions about what to use, the products can fall short of their abilities and leave your property exposed to serious termite damage.
It is very frustrating when you take on the task of treating termites yourself, spend a bunch of money, and still have termites damaging your property. This is why we advocate investing in professional termite control. Professionals are trained in the proper selection and application of termite control products.
What You Can Do
When it comes to addressing the threat of termites, we don’t recommend that Chandler residents tackle termite control. We do, however, suggest termite prevention. There are ways you can make your home less of a target for termites.
Seal tiny entry points in your exterior to keep drywood termites from getting inside. Pay particular attention to window and door frames. These are common targets.
Perform inspections for mud tubes and frass.
Be on the lookout for winged termites.
Remove wood sources from your yard.
If you have a wood source that can’t be removed, consider elevating it to get the wood up off the soil.
Never bury wood in your yard.
Replace rotted wood on structures.
Address moisture problems, such as clogged or broken gutters. These promote wood rot, and moist soil will attract subterranean termite workers.
Professional Termite Treatments In Chandler
If you have a termite infestation in your Chandler property, or you want to prevent termite damage by investing in professional termite control, we can help. At Green Home Pest Control, we offer several options. We can apply a pre-treatment for a new construction or install liquid termiticide around a pre-existing construction. We can deploy bait stations around your property to guard against subterranean termites and to help with termite detection. We also offer yearly termite inspections. Let us help you find the right solution for your Chandler property. Reach out to us today to get started.