In states like Massachusetts, where termites are fairly active, it is essential to maintain an effective termite prevention and control program. If you own a home in Massachusetts, talk to your termite control expert about methods to help protect your home from termite infestations and damage. The techniques and materials used to control an infestation vary based on the type of termite, home construction, and extent of infestation. The following are the typical ways that professionals use to prevent and treat termite infestations:

Termiticides – This is a chemical spot treatment used for subterranean termites. Termiticides can also be used for complete treatments on all potential entry points and infestation areas around a home.

Termite Monitoring & Bait Systems – This method consists of multiple stations with small amounts of poison. Therefore, this treatment is less environmentally invasive than soil treatments. Bait and monitoring stations can be used to detect potential infestations and give you long-term control for large populations of termites. However, this method is slower-acting than termiticide treatments.

Fumigation – Fumigation is used on large, widespread, and deeply hidden drywood termite infestations. Fumigation is very effective in the short term but does not protect against reinfestations.

Heat, Cold & Electronic Treatments – Small, localized drywood termite infestations can be treated with heat or extreme cold, especially in furniture or out-structures. Electronic and microwave treatments also may be used. None of these treatments prevents future infestations.

Green Termite Control – Several non-toxic or “green” options exist to eliminate termites. These methods include boric acid, orange oil, and biological controls, which include introducing other pests that eat or kill termites. These methods can be less effective and should be done by a pest control expert well-versed in green treatment.

If you find that you need a whole-house treatment, you need to hire a professional since it is a complicated process that can use chemicals that homeowners cannot obtain. Your home may be infested from underneath, particularly if you have a house on a slab. Termites can live undetected for long periods, slowly eating away at any entry points they can find. An exterminator has the tools and expertise to drill through slabs and put poison in areas under a slab, as well as any of the other entry points termites can squeeze through, which is anything 1/64″ or more. This includes cracks, areas around pipes and cables, expansion joints, etc.

Smaller local pest control companies will often charge less and do as good a job, if not better, than the large national pest control chains. Ask your neighbors for referrals and check the Better Business Bureau before hiring a company. Ask about warranties and how they handle reinfestation. A standard unconditional 1-year guarantee against re-infestation is the norm when getting a whole house treatment. Many pest control companies offer annual maintenance and retreatment as part of their initial cost or as an add-on contract.