If you’re a homeowner, you’ve probably tackled quite a few DIY projects over the years. IKEA furniture, paint jobs, sprucing up the garden, maybe you’ve taken down a wall or two? But should you consider DIY-ing pest control?
There are plenty of natural remedies that can deter common insects like essential oils, fresh herbs, and even coffee grounds. But when it comes to destructive termites, well, some things are better left to the professionals. Let’s learn about the pros and cons of common DIY termite treatments.
Do DIY termite methods work?
First, let’s address the elephant in the room. Do these do-it-yourself treatments really work? Of course, as pest control professionals, we’re going to recommend getting a professional inspection. Pest control professionals can accurately identify the type of termite, severity of the infestation, and best course of treatment. We can then use the right tools and treatments to address the issue and prevent further damage.
In general, DIY methods may be able to kill existing termites and help with small, localized infestations, but they’re not going to be able to get to the source of the problem and stop termites from coming back.
Homemade termite treatments
Here are some home treatment options to consider for small, localized infestations. There is no “best” do-it-yourself recipe or solution since none of these options will permanently prevent termites.
- Orange oil: Orange oil contains d-limonene which dissolves termite exoskeletons on contact. It can be effective for spot-treating drywood termites, but does not reach hidden infestations unless it’s injected into the infested wood.
- Borax/Boric Acid: Borax is a household cleaner that is toxic to termites. It can be effective against drywood termites by injecting the borax solution into infested wood or powder can be used in bait stations, but it’s not effective at spreading through an entire colony. It shouldn’t be used if you have children or pets.
- Vinegar: White or apple cider vinegar can be used as an insecticide to spray directly on bugs and kill them. A mix of white vinegar, lemon juice, and water can be used to kill subterranean termites, but it’s not effective at penetrating wood or soil.
- Cardboard traps: Another way to target termites is to leave out wet cardboard. This will attract the termites, and then the cardboard pieces can be removed and burned. Again this will not eliminate the entire colony.
- Store-bought sprays: Besides natural treatment methods, store-bought termite spray is also an option. They are typically less potent than professional-grade products, so they may not be able to eliminate a large colony.
How to prevent termites
The best way to treat for termites is to prevent them in the first place! Make sure your home is unwelcoming to termites by following these steps:
- Make sure water is draining at least 12 inches away from all structures.
- Keep wooden and stucco exterior features away from the soil.
- Block all potential entry points, including cracks in the foundation and woodwork.
- Reduce moisture inside by fixing leaks or using a dehumidifier.
- Have your home regularly inspected by a pest control professional.
If you see termites in your home, it’s best to forgo the homemade or store-bought treatments and call in a professional. DIY options can repel or kill termites, but they won’t eliminate the source of the problem. If you see termites in your house or property, give us a call!
