Although termites play an incredibly important role in the national environment, they provide a serious threat to human homeowners. The termite is a social insect that lives in densely populated colonies. The species feeds on cellulose, which is found in wood.
Termites get to this cellulose by chewing through the wood, which is why a termite infestation is of particular concern to homeowners who have homes with wooden frames.
Each year, termites chew into these wood-based houses, causing millions of dollars of damage nationwide annually. Thankfully, though, there are a number of different ecologically friendly termite treatment options that naturally eliminate a termite infestation.
Termite Infestation Tips and Tricks
Keep Wood Faraway
The most effective termite control option is an excellent one because it is free, sensible, and eco-sensitive. Because termites like to snack on wood, all you have to do is make sure that you keep wood well away from your property. Use metal and stone to construct your outdoor deck and patio, and keep lumber and logs away from wooden doorways.
If you do choose to build a deck or patio with wood, you can use termite-resistant wood types to construct the space. These resistant lumber types vary from region to region, so make sure to ask a local home and garden expert for advice.
Hot & Cold Temperatures
Another easy, all-natural, ecologically sensitive method for eliminating a dry wood infestation of termites is to apply extremely hot or cold temperatures to the affected area. If you choose to go with heat, hot air at temperatures between 120 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit must be pumped into your home. To kill off the termites, a temperature of 120 degrees must be attained for 35 minutes or more. Or, if you are not in a rush to get rid of the termites, lowering your home’s temperature to 15 degrees Fahrenheit or lower for four days straight will get rid of the infestation. Be careful, though, as these extreme temperatures can do some damage to your home’s furniture and flooring.
Use Predators
Instead of involving complicated, non-organic, not eco-friendly chemicals to destroy termites that have infested your property, use the insect’s natural predators to kill off the pesky bug. Nematodes – a microscopic species that looks like a worm – live in soil ecosystems and feed on termite larvae. Best of all, they are good for the environment and harmless to both humans and pets.
Organic Botanical Treatments
Another possible termite treatment option is to use various organic botanical treatments on the colony. If the termite colony has defined boundaries, orange oil works very well. Neem oil also works, but operates at a slow pace because the oil must soak into your wood. Then, the termites must ingest the oil for it to take effect and kill off the colony.
