How to Get Rid of Termites: DIY Techniques
Termites are winged pests that feed on the wood in your home and cause structural and property damage. Five main types of termites exist: Dampwood, Drywood, and Subterranean are the three most common, but Conehead and Formosan termites also can be a problem. Any of these termite species can infest your home, but keep a close eye out for the Drywood termite that gains access to your home through tunneling underneath the surface. It is best to hire a termite inspector to inspect your home for termites if you suspect an infestation, but there are a few measures that you can take to help control the problem. Learn four DIY ways to get rid of termites below.
1. Sunlight Exposure
It is rare that you’ll see a termite during the day. The sun’s UV rays are deadly to the pest and they often die when exposed to sunlight for even short periods of time. As such, sunlight exposure is an excellent elimination technique that can help get termites out of wood furniture or other items they might have infested. Any items termites are feasting on can be placed in the sunlight for 3-5 days to kill off any pests inside.
2. Neem Oil
Neem oil isn’t the fastest-working product, but it does work and is non-toxic. It’s also one of the easier ways to remove termites from the home. Neem oil is an all-natural pesticide which disrupts the growth, feeding, and reproduction of an insect. Neem oil prevents termites from feeding on the cellulose and from laying their eggs. When the termite ingests the neem oil, it kills them instantly. To use neem oil to kill termites, apply the oil to a cotton ball and rub it on furniture and other items infested with the pests. The termites will ingest the oil and die.
3. Wet Cardboard Trap
Cardboard contains the cellulose that termites feed on so the wet cardboard trap is an effective way to get rid of termites. Simply gather a few corrugated cardboard boxes, soak them in water, and place them in locations where you suspect there are termites. When the termites discover and begin feeding on the box, it’s time to pick it up and destroy them. This is easiest done by burning the box.
4. Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous Earth is a great pest prevention product, working wonders to keep termites and a variety of other pests away from your home. The product works by scraping the outer shell of the termite, causing the pest to dry out and then die. To use Diatomaceous Earth, put on a face mask and gloves and sprinkle it in thin layers over infested areas. It is good for the garden, the foundation of the house, and other areas where termites have been seen.
The four DIY termite prevention techniques above are reliable methods for controlling a termite infestation. We recommend using these techniques in conjunction with hiring a pest control professional.
Elite Home Inspections provides termite inspections for home buyers and homeowners in Louisville, Kentucky and Southern Indiana. If you are concerned about termites in your home, contact us today or schedule your appointment online.