Termite Control
In general, there are 2 primary ways to control termites.Termite Fumigation
Termite fumigation, also known as "tenting," has been used to eliminate drywood termite colonies in structures for over forty years. If done properly, this method can usually ensure complete eradication of all drywood termites from a structure. Two different gasses have been used, methyl bromide, which is being phased out in the U.S., and sulfuryl fluoride (Vikane®).
image © University of Arizonza
Fumigation is a highly technical procedure which involves surrounding the structure with a gas-tight tarps, releasing the gas inside the tarp, and leaving it there for a set amount of time. The concentration of gas is monitored during the fumigation to insure that a sufficient dose is maintained.
Before fumigation, the homeowner must remove all plants and animals from the house, as well as medicines and all opened food items. The only exceptions are canned goods and sealed bottles.
After the tarp is removed, the structure is left to air out. Only after the house has been tested to ensure that no gas remains, can it be reoccupied.
Because the fumigant is a true gas and works as a component of air, no cleanup of clothing, dishes, floors or other surfaces is needed.
Unfortunately fumigation has no residual value. Termites are free to enter the structure and begin building a nest as soon as the gas has cleared out. That's why "exclusion," keeping the termites out, is part of our exceptional service.
Safe and successful fumigation requires thoughtful planning and monitoring by a experienced professional like Russ. He is highly knowledgable and has years of experience in termite control in a wide variety of circumstances. If you have questions about the fumigation process, contact Russ today.
Monitoring Stations with Liquid Treatment
Termite baiting systems work by placing bait stations at intervals around a structure. The stations consist of small amounts of untreated wood inside a plastic holder.
image © UF/IFAS Florida Extension Service
Subterranean termites, while looking for food, encounter the bait station, and begin feeding on the bait. During routine inspections, the activity is noticed, alerting the termite professional to a termite colony nearby. The wood in the bait station is then replaced with wood impregnated with a termiticide. Because termites share food with others in the colony, they spread the slow-acting poison to other termites, resulting in a gradual decline in termite numbers. As the worker termites die off, the termite colony declines to the point where it can no longer sustain itself, leading to it's collapse and elimination.
image © UF/IFAS Florida Extension Service
Extermination of colonies, however, is not a rapid process. In fact it will take months.
The more termites that feed on the bait, the quicker the colony will be eliminated. This is where the experience of a termite professional like Russ is critical. To be effective, a good baiting program must be undertaken with skill and judgement, and monitored properly.
When termites swarm, they leave their colony to start new colonies. New colonies are constantly forming. It stands to reason therefore, that once one colony is exterminated, others will take it’s place. The termite risk has been temporarily reduced, but it can never be completely eliminated. Long-term, ongoing protection is the only true subterranean protection.
Termite baits are useful and effective tools to help manage termite infestations. However, they will not work by simply placing a few bait stations in the ground and walking away. Success requires thoughtful installation and diligent monitoring by a experienced professional, backed by a responsible pest control firm. Russ has years of field-work experience in termite control in a wide variety of circumstances. Contact Russ at 813-727-4758 to schedule an inspection.
Florida Bug Inspectors offers termite inspections in Tampa, Brandon, Temple Terrace, Riverview, Plant City, Ruskin, St Petersburg, Clearwater, Largo, and Wesley Chapel.
