A termite is a small, destructive insect that feeds on cardboard and timber. Extensive property damage can result from an infestation particularly when undetected for some time.
Paying attention for signs such as mud tubes along the property and hollowed wood is key to getting adequate and quick Oklahoma City termite treatment. Expert solutions can include termite baits, liquid termiticides, and fumigation for immediate and effective removal.
Natural remedies can also be helpful in the beginning or if the problem is mild. Still, professional termite control offers comprehensive and lasting protection and is deemed the best approach to eliminate the problem.
Resolving A Termite Infestation
Oklahoma City homeowners can be better prepared to battle a termite infestation by becoming familiar with the types and signs.
| Type | Signs | Destruction |
| Formosan | Reproduces rapidly, aggressive | Compromised structural integrity from extensive damage |
| Subterranean | Hollowed wood, mud tubes, leaves droppings | Noticeable and extensive damage |
| Dampwood | Likes decaying and wet wood | Focused in high moisture areas |
| Drywood | Blistered wood, leaves droppings, no soil contact | Challenging to detect, localized |
Routine inspections with professional termite control will lead to early detection and rapid elimination. Read here for tips on identifying and controlling the insects. Homeowners seeking instant solutions have a few options offered by specialists, including the following.
- Fumigation releases gasses that thoroughly and effectively kill termites, completely eliminates the infestation.
- Termite baits contain toxins that the insects spread among their colonies for an efficient elimination of the whole population.
- Liquid termiticides commonly used and favored for application around the property’s perimeter. The solution can prevent molting and attacks the insect’s nervous system.
These treatments are highly effective giving homeowners the peace of mind knowing the issue is resolved with minimal chance for further damages.
Some homeowners will try natural remedies for a DIY approach to termite elimination if the problem is new and the infestation is relatively mild. The primary natural choices include cardboard traps, nematodes, boric acid, vinegar, and diatomaceous earth.
Nematodes
The entomopathogenic nematodes are a highly effective natural solution. Microscopic worms seek what is their prey and act by injecting the insect’s body with bacteria for a potent and full elimination.
The parasites are harmless to humans or pets and won’t create property damage but they are toxic for termites. You can shop online or in select shops to find nematodes. Application is straightforward by placing these wherever you find signs of termites.
The downside with this natural remedy is the sheer volume and determination of termites in their efforts. Having a sufficient supply to eliminate an entire colony can prove challenging. Selecting the appropriate natural remedy depends on the level of infestation and its location.
Vinegar
With a concentrated product and direct contact, vinegar’s acetic acid acts by dehydrating the termites and kills individual insects. The effect is temporary since the solution loses potency and dilutes quickly.
The primary downside is the fact that the solution needs to come in direct contact with the entire colony which is challenging to accomplish with the hidden tunnels and protection of the queen. While you may eliminate visible insects, the colony can rapidly repopulate.
While vinegar can eradicate an infestation in the early stages when it’s still at the surface, expert treatment is still the surest method for complete elimination.
Diatomaceous Earth
DE – Diatomaceous Earth is a non-toxic solution proven to be effective in termite removal. The product is sprinkled over an infected area and works by drying out the insects. You can also use this preventively by mixing it with water and rolling it over wood surfaces.
Fossilized algae in DE presents a barrier when applied to walls, floors, ceilings, and the foundation, deterring a termite invasion. It’s vital to remain vigilant with application and incorporate other preventive measures for the greatest effect.
Cardboard traps
A cardboard bait system is situated in the infested areas where they will naturally be infested by termites. These are particularly effective with the subterranean variety who are drawn to the moist cardboard’s cellulose. Other termite types such as drywood are inclined to other food choices.
The insects are likely to feed on the bait but underground colonies are less likely to be exposed. These are more of a gauge to check the level of infestation than a method to eliminate the problem.
However, when combined with an effective treatment, the efficacy is increased. This solution will need to be repeated multiple times for a sustainable effort.
DIY home remedies such as borax, orange oil, wet cardboard traps, DE, and soap and water have a limited success rate for eradicating full colonies. With direct contact, it’s more likely that these solutions will kill small numbers instead of eliminating an infestation.
Termite-proof barriers and extermination offer entire population extermination and lasting protection. Experts can rapidly detect an issue and immediately respond with effective solutions. Visit How to Get Rid of Termites: The Ultimate Guide – Pestkilled – for a guide on getting rid of termites.
While Oklahoma City professional termite control can be a bigger upfront investment the success rate is higher and assures long-term results. The risks associated with extermination are minimized by professional selection and safe application.
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