How to prevent and treat termite infestations?

Have a licensed pest control professional inspect your home for termites at least once a year, preferably in spring during swarming season. Get inspections from 2-3 companies for comparison. Each should provide detailed findings and recommendations without pressure tactics.

For small, accessible drywood termite infestations limited to a single area of wood, a pest control professional can apply localized treatment — injecting termiticide directly into the infested wood through drilled holes, or using heat or microwave treatment on the affected area.

If you discover an active termite infestation, call a licensed professional rather than attempting DIY treatment. Use the time before the appointment to get quotes from 2-3 companies and research their reputations.

Determine which termite type you are dealing with because the treatment approach differs completely.

Remove dead tree stumps, scrap wood, fallen branches, and cellulose debris from within 20 feet of the home. Do not stack firewood against the house or on the ground near the foundation. Clear construction debris, cardboard, and paper products from crawlspaces.

Learn to recognize the key signs of termite activity so you can catch infestations early.

Repair all water leaks — plumbing, roofing, gutters, and condensation from HVAC systems. Ensure proper drainage away from the foundation. Keep gutters clean and direct downspouts at least 3 feet from the house. Ventilate crawlspaces to reduce humidity.

Maintain at least 6 inches of clearance between soil and any wood in the structure. Remove wooden lattice, trellises, or siding that touches the ground. Replace wood mulch within 6 inches of the foundation with gravel or rubber mulch. Ensure fence posts, deck supports, and porch columns use…

Have a certified pest control professional install a termite bait monitoring system around your property perimeter. Sentricon Always Active uses noviflumuron (an IGR that inhibits molting). Trelona ATBS uses novaluron. Stations are checked and maintained on a regular schedule.

Hire a licensed pest control professional to apply a liquid termiticide barrier around your home's foundation. Termidor SC (fipronil) is the industry standard — a non-repellent termiticide applied by trenching 6 inches deep around the perimeter and drilling through concrete slabs where needed.