In order to remove termite infestations, certain treatment methods have to be used, and all of these treatments contain chemicals in one shape or another. But how safe are these chemicals and do they pose a health threat?
Wood treatments
Certain termite species such as dampwood and drywood termites will build their colonies completely inside wood. This means that they have to be treated with specialized methods such as wood treatments. Wood treatments are basically termiticides that are injected in the wood using various methods. While these termiticides are toxic, and you may have to vacate the area while the treatment is applied by a pro, once they have been injected in the wood, the area will be completely safe.
Baiting systems
Since subterranean termites build their colonies underground, they cannot really be targeted with direct application insecticides in order to destroy the colony. Instead, baiting systems are used. These baiting systems consist of simple mechanisms that are inserted in the ground surrounding the area of the infestation. The mechanisms are basically plastic containers with a cap that is left above the ground and the cap can be opened or closed. Within the plastic containers, you will have cellulose laced with a slow acting insecticides, and various access points that will allow termites to reach the cellulose. The termites will pick up the cellulose, take it back to the colony, share it around, and eventually kill the queen. This is the safest treatment method against termites because the insecticide never interacts with anything other than the termites.
Chemical barriers
Chemical barriers are also a treatment method that targets subterranean termites. These barriers consist of an insecticide that is injected in a trench around the home. The insecticide then seeps in the soil creating a barrier around the home. This method is very safe once it’s been installed, and the insecticide does not affect the vegetation in the surrounding area.
Fumigation
Fumigation is the most toxic control method that is used against termites, but when done by a professional it is completely safe. The home has to be tended and vacated for a few days while a gaseous insecticide kills all the termites in the home. After that, some light cleaning is required and you’re good to go.
For more information about the various termite treatment methods, or if you have a termite infestation that has to be removed, contact us today.
