Physical termite barriers are a control option that can be installed when a home is built. They are integrated into the structure of the house itself, creating a continuous barrier around the home. When they are installed correctly, they will prevent termites from infesting the home from beneath. The only way they would be able to reach the wood would be by building mud tunnels above ground, which are visible and can help you detect a termite infestation very early on.
For homes or buildings built without any physical barriers, chemical termite barriers can be a great alternative. They offer protection without the need to make costly structural changes, and they can be easily and quickly installed by a pro.
Physical termite barriers can be a long-term preventative measure because they have a 50 year life expectancy. However, not all homes come with this feature pre-installed and they still need to be protected. Some states will require homes to be installed with a physical barrier, while others will not.
Chemical barriers can protect your property for up to 8 year without compromising the structural integrity of the building. They are also able to stop an infestation in its tracks, but most treatments will not kill off the colony itself. Both barrier types are ineffective against drywood and dampwood termites. They only work well against the subterranean and formosan variety.
If you want to get rid of the colony itself, you will need to use a baiting system along with the chemical barrier. If you are dealing with drywood or dampwood termites, localized treatments are recommended. For larger infestations, your home will need to be fumigated.
So when you are dealing with an infestation, or if you want to keep your home protected, you can go with a chemical barrier. It’s nice to have a physical termite barrier to protect your home, but when that is not an option, you have plenty of alternatives. When you combine a chemical barrier with a baiting system, you can ensure that your home is protected in both the short and the long term, with the chemical barrier stopping active infestations and protecting you for 8 years, and a baiting system killing off the colony that is on or near your property. If you would like to know more about the termite treatment options that you have at your disposal, or if you would like to set up a pest control appointment, contact us today.