When it comes to protecting your home from termite infestations, two popular options are liquid termite treatment and bait ground stations. In this article, we’ll explore the differences between these methods, their effectiveness, and where they should be installed to safeguard your property.
Liquid Termite Treatment
Liquid termite treatment involves drilling holes through concrete at regular intervals and pumping liquid termiticide into the ground. This creates a continuous barrier around the foundation of your home. The advantage of liquid treatment lies in its rapid action, killing termites within minutes of exposure. It can also provide protection for over 10 years without requiring maintenance. However, a drawback is that dead termites can repel remaining ones, leading them to find alternative entry points. Additionally, termites may not carry the poison back to the colony to eliminate the queen. This invasive process demands special equipment and treating every crack and water penetration inside your home. On average, 4 gallons of termiticide are used every 10 linear feet, which can amount to a considerable volume for larger homes.
Bait Stations
Bait ground stations consist of plastic sleeves and cartridges filled with slow-acting bait. Termites find the bait, carry it back to their colony, and spread it to other members, including the queen, leading to gradual extermination. Installing these stations is a quick and straightforward process. The bait, made of plastic, cellulose, and noviflumuron (the chemical killer), is a source of food and energy for termites. However, they only die when molting, which occurs after consuming the bait. This process takes about 3 months to completely eradicate the colony. Each bait station is equipped with a barcode to monitor consumption, but scientific tests suggest that just one inch of bait is enough to eliminate an entire colony.
Best Placement of Bait Stations
For optimal results, bait stations should be installed beyond the drop edge of the roof and at least 18 inches past the exterior wall. If your home has undergone liquid treatment in the past, this area may repel termites, making it essential to avoid placing bait stations too close to the edge.
Effectiveness and Cost
Both liquid termite treatment and bait ground stations have their advocates, with effectiveness varying depending on factors like geographical location, termite species, and the extent of the infestation. While installing bait stations is more straightforward, the maintenance cost (around $25 per month) can add up over time. Deciding between the two methods should involve consulting a local specialist who can assess your specific situation and recommend the most suitable option for your home.
Conclusion
The choice between liquid termite treatment and bait ground stations boils down to individual circumstances. Each method has its pros and cons, and effectiveness can be influenced by various factors. For a comprehensive termite prevention system, seek advice from a local specialist to determine the best approach for safeguarding your home from these destructive pests.
