Termites. The word alone can send shivers down the spine of any homeowner, and rightfully so. While they are vital to the health of our woodlands and forests, termites can literally destroy a home’s wood and wood structure. As pest control professionals, we cannot stress enough the importance of knowing how to get rid of termites in your home.
Termites eat everything cellulose from your main support beams down to your baseboard trim, and can be found at ground level all the way to the attic. They are also one of the toughest pests to detect because subterranean termites live in the soil below the frost line. Typically, homeowners discover they have termites when they swarm.
Termites in Glens Falls, Lake George, Saratoga, and the rest of the northeast usually swarm between March and May, but it’s not unheard of to find them year-round. If you suspect you have a colony but prefer not to use chemicals, try these do-it-yourself tricks to get rid of termites naturally.
DIY Natural Termite Control
If you don’t like the idea of a chemical solution, here are a few ways to get rid of termites in your home.
Remove mulch. Mulch is an ideal food source for termites. Not only is it made of cellulose, but it retains moisture. Just removing it from around your home can prevent termites from showing up in the first place.
Let the sun shine in. Bright sunlight is usually deadly for termites. Try clearing away brush, roots and landscaping to expose a colony, or use UV lighting. Direct sunlight works especially well for wood furniture that has become infested.
Set a cardboard trap. Try wetting some corrugated boxes or cardboard and placing it near where you suspect a termite colony. Once the termites have been lured out and begin feeding on the cellulose in the cardboard, you can burn it.
Use termite predators. Parasitic nematodes are roundworms that feed on termites while leaving your wood intact. They also kill a number of other household pests but are safe for your family, pets and plants.
The Best Way to Get Rid of a Termite Infestation? Call a Professional Termite Exterminator
While these DIY techniques may be effective for a minor termite infestation, most homeowners prefer not to mess around. Since it’s difficult to determine the severity of the infestation, as well as the damage that is being done, it’s always best to consult a professional termite exterminator.
Nature’s Way Pest Control has experienced termite exterminators in Albany, Saratoga, Glens Falls, and as far north as Plattsburgh NY. We also have local exterminators in Western Vermont. Take advantage of our coupons and book your free inspection online or call NY (518) 741-2219 or VT (802) 328-9131 today.
