The last type of pest that any homeowner wants to find in their house or on their property is the dreaded termite. These voracious insects can do serious damage to a structure if they are not eliminated in a timely fashion. Perhaps the most common treatment involves the use of strong chemical pesticides, but several non-toxic solutions are also available. This article takes a look at some of these treatments.
Small Invasions
One interesting treatment for a small infestation is using vinegar mixed with water or lemon juice. Mix an equal amount of vinegar and water or make a solution consisting of 1 part vinegar and ½ part lemon juice. Put the mixture into a spray bottle and treat any areas of the house where you suspect that the termites are active, such as walls, cabinets, or furniture. Please keep in mind that this type of homemade mixture is intended to deal with small-scale termite issues, not large infestations.
Another possible non-toxic treatment for small-scale problems is insecticidal soap. You simply combine water and soap and spray the mixture in where you have seen termites. You can also use certain types of mulch, such as cedar mulch, in your landscape or around your house to prevent subterranean termites from getting into your home.
Zapping the termites with electricity is also an option. A technician will point a tool at the wall or other area where the termites are hiding. The electricity from the tool will penetrate the wall and kill the termites.
Large Infestations
If you have a large infestation of termites then the homemade mixtures and other methods are not going to be enough to get the job done. In this case, you will need the help of a professional pest control service. Fortunately, they have an excellent non-toxic treatment option. Using heat to kill a large termite infiltration is a well-established, effective method of dealing with termites. Termites do not like excessive heat and do not survive in temperatures of 130 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.
This chemical-free technique can be completed in less than a day, so you won't be inconvenienced for very long. The pest control company will heat your house to the required temperature and keep it at that temperature for about 1.5 hours. You won't have to move any of your furniture as you would with chemical fumigation.
You have several non-toxic termite treatments available. For more information about how to get rid of a termite infiltration without resorting to the use of toxic chemicals, contact an experienced pest control professional in your city.