Fortunately, with the right pest management strategies, you can protect your clients’ home or business from a costly infestation.

Signs of a Termite Infestation

Detecting termites early is crucial to minimizing damage. Some common signs of infestation include: 

• Damaged wood – Doors and windows can become difficult to open and there could be a scent like mildew or mold.
   
• Discarded wings – Termites shed their wings when they have found a new nesting sight and wings can be found inside or outside of the property.
   
• Mud tubes – Small tunnels on a structure made of soil, wood, saliva and termite feces created by termites to protect themselves when traveling through structures. 
   
• Termite droppings – Also known as frass, termite droppings resemble small, wood-colored pellets and are often the first physical sign that termites are present.

Preventing Termite Infestations

Prevention is the best defense against termites. Here are some proactive steps you can take: 

• Reduce moisture – Address leaks and ensure proper ventilation in basements and crawl spaces and keep wood dry. Use a humidifier when necessary. 
   
• Eliminate entry points – Seal any potential access points into the home and cover openings on the outside of the property with termite-resistant steel mesh.
   
• Baiting systems – Strategically placed bait stations around the property’s exterior can monitor activity and eliminate colonies over time. 
   
• Routine inspections – Regular inspections using advanced tools such as moisture meters and infrared technology help detect early signs of infestation. 

Advanced Termite Treatment Methods

When termites are present, selecting the right treatment approach is crucial for successful eradication. Here are the most effective solutions used in professional termite management: 

• Liquid Termiticides – Liquid termiticides create a chemical barrier that prevents termites from entering the structure. It works by creating a barrier in the soil that termites encounter and die from when attempting to access the property. 
   
• Bait Systems – Termite bait systems are a way to control termite infestations by using bait stations to attract and kill termites.
   
• Foam Treatments – Termite foam expands to fill cracks and crevices, killing termites and leaving an insecticide residual. It is used in hard-to-reach areas like wall voids, under slabs and around pipes.
   
• Dust Treatments – Termite dust disrupts termites’ exoskeletons, killing them. It is applied to the surface of compromised wood or into soil around the home.  

The pest management industry is constantly introducing new products. Just last year, BASF launched a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) product, enabling professionals to detect termite baiting stations in the ground.

Offering comprehensive termite management solutions strengthens client trust and ensures long-term success. Educate clients about the importance of ongoing monitoring, scheduled inspections and proactive treatments to prevent reinfestation. 

For the most effective termite management solutions and industry-leading products, shop at your nearest SiteOne branch or online at SiteOne.com/en/pestmanagement.