Termite Pest Control Through Foundation
Termite pest control is more than just the termite treatment you get through your exterior walls. We are also talking about what is under them: your home’s foundation. You may be familiar with the typical treatments and termite tenting. But did you know that foundation was equally important?
What Termites Need to Survive
Termites need moisture to survive, and they get it from the soil by remaining underground most of the time. Because of this, they have no problem finding your foundation and going underneath your walls, no matter how solid. From there, they search for cracks in the foundation and make their way up to the inner structure of your home.
Foundations Matter to Termite Pest Control
There are a couple different types of foundations, each with its own level of built-in termite control. The weakest foundation — the simple slab foundation — is prone to cracks, making it easier for the pesky little critters to invade your home. By contrast, if you have a concrete foundation reinforced with rebar, you are in good shape to keep termites out. However, even the best foundations can weaken and crack over time. And since you never see what is under your house, you should have your home checked regularly by a reputable pest control company to be sure that your house is still protected against termite infestations.
Termite Pest Control Treatments
Follow are termite treatments provided by the EPA, the Environmental Protection Agency:
- Non-Chemical Treatments
- Chemical Treatments
- Conventional Barrier Treatments
- Termite Baits
- Wood Treatment
Non-Chemical Treatments
Some ways to keep termites out do not involve the application of insecticides. One such method is a physical barrier, typically incorporated during construction. Steel mesh and sands of particular sizes have been shown to perform effectively as physical barriers.
Chemical Treatments
The pesticides used for the prevention or treatment of termite infestations are called termiticides and must demonstrate the ability to provide structural protection before we register them. In most cases, termiticide application can only be properly performed by a trained pest management professional.
Conventional Barrier Treatments
The most common technique for treating termite infestations is the soil-applied barrier treatment. Termiticides used for barrier treatments must be specifically labeled for that use.
Termite Baits
In recent years, several bait systems have been introduced to help reduce the overall use of insecticides and their impact on human health and the environment. These systems rely on cellulose baits that contain a slow-acting insecticide.
Wood Treatment
Borates are commonly used as a spray on application during new home construction to protect wood.
