DIY Termite Treatment: What Works and When to Call a Professional

January 29, 2025

Termites are among the most destructive pests that can infest your home or business, causing millions of dollars in damage every year. These silent invaders feed on wood and cellulose materials, often causing severe structural damage before homeowners even realize an infestation exists. While many homeowners may feel tempted to tackle a termite problem with DIY solutions, the reality is that termite control requires specialized knowledge and tools. In this article, we'll explore what DIY termite treatments work, when they can be effective, and when it's best to call in a professional pest control service.

Understanding Termites and the Need for Treatment

Termites are social insects that live in colonies, often beneath the soil or in wooden structures. They feed primarily on cellulose, which is found in wood, paper, and some types of insulation. The two most common types of termites in Australia are subterranean termites and drywood termites. Subterranean termites live in colonies underground and travel to your home through mud tubes, while drywood termites infest dry wood directly, often without creating visible external signs of damage.

If left unchecked, termites can weaken the foundation of your home or business, causing expensive repairs. The longer an infestation goes undetected, the more severe the damage will be. This is why it's crucial to take immediate action if you suspect termite activity.

DIY Termite Treatment: What Works?

There are several DIY treatments available for termite control, and some of them may help in managing a minor infestation or prevent future problems. However, it’s important to understand their limitations and when these treatments are most effective.

Bait Stations

Baiting is one of the most popular methods for termite control, and there are several DIY baiting systems available on the market. These stations contain a substance that termites find irresistible, often cellulose-based material treated with a slow-acting insecticide. Termites are attracted to the bait, and once they feed on it, they return to their colony, spreading the poison and killing other members of the colony, including the queen.

Baiting systems can be effective in controlling subterranean termites, especially when placed around the perimeter of your home. However, baiting requires patience, as it may take weeks or even months for termites to consume the bait and spread it to the colony. Additionally, it’s difficult to ensure that the bait stations are placed in the right areas, making it less effective for larger or more widespread infestations.

Liquid Termiticides

Liquid termiticides are applied to the soil around the perimeter of your property or directly to wooden structures. The chemicals in these termiticides create a barrier that either repels termites or kills them when they come into contact with it. Many DIY termite treatment kits include liquid termiticides, which can be applied by homeowners with a sprayer.

Liquid termiticides are particularly useful for treating subterranean termites, as they create a protective barrier around the foundation of your home. However, applying these chemicals requires careful preparation, including trenching and drilling into the foundation to ensure the treatment reaches the necessary areas. Additionally, these chemicals can be toxic to humans and pets, so precautions should be taken when applying them.

Boron-Based Solutions

Boron-based solutions are another DIY treatment that has been shown to be effective in controlling termites. Borates, such as boric acid, are natural insecticides that can be applied directly to wood, and they are effective at killing termites when ingested. Borates are often available in powder form, which can be sprinkled around areas where termites are suspected to be active. They can also be diluted and used as a spray.

Boron-based treatments are safe to use and less toxic than some chemical alternatives, making them a popular choice for homeowners who prefer an eco-friendly option. However, borate treatments may only be effective on drywood termites and may not work well for subterranean termites that live underground.

Diatomaceous Earth (DE)

Diatomaceous earth is a natural, non-toxic substance made from the fossilized remains of tiny aquatic organisms. When applied to areas where termites are present, it works by dehydrating the insects, causing them to die. DE can be spread around the perimeter of the home or applied directly to wooden structures.

While diatomaceous earth is a safe and effective option for some DIY treatments, it requires the termites to come into contact with the powder. It may not be effective if termites are deep within walls or other hidden areas. Additionally, DE loses its effectiveness when wet, so reapplication is necessary if exposed to moisture.

Cardboard Traps

Cardboard traps are a simple DIY method that can be used to capture termites. Cardboard, which contains cellulose (the primary food source for termites), can be placed in areas where termites are suspected. When termites consume the cardboard, they can be removed and discarded, along with the captured insects.

This method may work temporarily to reduce termite activity in localized areas but is not a long-term solution for managing an infestation. It’s also not a practical method for large or widespread infestations, and the effectiveness of the traps depends on the presence of termites in the area.

When to Call a Professional Pest Control Service

While DIY termite treatments can be useful for minor infestations or as a preventive measure, there are several situations where calling a professional pest control service is the best course of action.

Large or Active Infestations

If you have a large infestation or notice signs of extensive damage, it’s time to call in a professional. A pest control expert has the tools and knowledge to detect the full extent of the problem and take the necessary steps to eliminate the infestation. DIY treatments may not be strong enough to eradicate a large colony or reach deep into hidden areas of your home.

Inaccessibility to Infested Areas

Termites can often be found in hard-to-reach areas such as inside walls, under flooring, or in the foundation of your home. DIY treatments may not be effective in these spaces, and professional pest control experts have the expertise to treat inaccessible areas without causing unnecessary damage to your property.

Continued Activity After DIY Treatment

If you've attempted DIY termite control and still notice signs of termite activity—such as new mud tubes or damaged wood—it’s time to call a professional. Persistent activity indicates that the treatment has not worked or that the infestation is larger than initially thought.

Lack of Experience and Knowledge

Termite control involves more than just applying chemicals to visible areas. It requires an understanding of termite behavior, the types of termites present, and the most effective methods for treatment. A professional pest control technician can create a tailored treatment plan for your property, ensuring that all potential entry points are addressed and that the colony is fully eradicated.

Risk of Damage to Your Property

Improper application of DIY treatments can lead to further damage to your property, especially if chemicals are used incorrectly. Termites often cause structural damage that is difficult to repair without expert knowledge. A professional pest control service can not only eliminate the termites but also advise on repairing any damage that may have occurred.

Conclusion

While DIY termite treatments can be useful in certain situations, they are typically best suited for small-scale problems or as preventive measures. For more significant infestations or when the treatment isn’t working, it’s important to seek professional help. Experts, like those at The Pest and Termite Co., provide pest control services in Gold Coast and are trained to accurately assess and treat termite infestations, ensuring your property remains safe and protected from these destructive pests. If you're unsure of the extent of a termite problem, it's always a good idea to call in a professional to prevent long-term damage and costly repairs.