Goodbye Sprays, Hello Termite Bait Systems
You can spray for ants. You can spray for roaches. It makes sense, then, that if you have termites or are worried about them, you would spray around your home with insecticides. But here's the thing: insecticide sprays don't work as well for termites as they do for other insects. If you truly want to get rid of these insects or keep them away, then you need a better solution. Termite bait systems are that solution. Here's a closer look.
What are termite bait systems?
A termite bait system is basically little cylinders that you push into the ground. They have a flat, pancake-shaped piece of plastic that sits on top of the ground, so you don't lose track of where you placed the bait. Inside the cylinder, there is a bait substance that attracts the termites. When they eat it, they die. The termites may also bring some of the bait back to their colony and share it with the other termites, so they die, too.
Why do bait systems work so much better than sprays?
Termite baits work better than sprays because they go where the termites go, below ground. Sprays do not penetrate the soil well, so many don't even come into contact with the termites. Termite baits are also safer, particularly in yards where pets and children play. You will want to watch your dog to ensure they don't dig up the baits, but most don't. You can even put a rock or some other heavy item on top of the bait cylinder so that kids or pets can't find it.
How long do you have to keep using termite bait systems?
The baits themselves typically last between 6 and 12 months, at which time you can easily replace them by pulling the old core out and sliding a new one in. You will probably want to keep using the baits for as long as you live in your home. Even if you think you have gotten rid of the termites, there is probably still a colony nearby, and keeping the baits in place will help ensure the termites do not find their way back to your home.
If you have termites or are worried about them invading, put the spray can down and buy some insect baits instead. You can also have a pest control contractor come install the baits. They will know the best places to put them around your home.