How do termite treatments work?

Termites, those wood-eating insects, can cause significant damage to the wooden structures of our homes. To fight against these pests, various anti-termite treatments exist. But how do they really work? The mechanisms of action of these treatments and the keys to choosing the most suitable solution for your situation.

What is an anti-termite treatment?

An anti-termite treatment is a method of fighting against termites, aiming to protect the wooden structures of a dwelling. It can be preventive, to avoid an infestation, or curative, to eradicate a colony already present. The treatments can be chemical, physical or biological, and their choice depends on the nature and extent of the infestation.

How do chemical treatments work?

Chemical treatments are based on the use of insecticidal products, called anti-termite. These substances are applied to the wood, around the foundations or in the soil, creating a toxic barrier for termites. When they come into contact with the product, the termites die or are poisoned and contaminate their fellows.

What are the different types of chemical treatments?

There are two main types of chemical treatments: spray treatments and injection treatments. Spray treatments involve applying an insecticidal product to the surface of the wood, while injection treatments involve injecting the product directly into the wood or soil using a syringe or a pressurized injection system.

What is a physical treatment against termites?

Physical treatments are non-chemical methods of fighting against termites. They consist of installing physical barriers around the foundations or wooden structures to prevent termites from accessing them. These barriers can be made of materials such as stainless steel, copper, or reinforced plastic membranes.

How do biological treatments work?

Biological treatments use living organisms or natural substances to fight against termites. Among the biological methods, we find the use of nematodes (microscopic worms), entomopathogenic fungi (which parasitize insects) or even pheromone traps, which attract winged termites and disrupt their reproduction.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of chemical treatments?

Chemical treatments are effective and fast, but they have disadvantages. They can be toxic to the environment and human health, and their effectiveness can decrease over time. Moreover, some termites may develop resistance to the insecticides used.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of physical treatments?

Physical treatments are durable, eco-friendly and safe for health. However, they can be expensive to install and are not always suitable for existing constructions. Moreover, they only protect the treated areas and do not eliminate colonies already present.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of biological treatments?

Biological treatments are environmentally friendly and safe for human health. They can be effective in fighting certain species of termites, but their effectiveness is often slower and less predictable than that of chemical treatments. Furthermore, they are not always available or suitable for all situations.

How to choose the right anti-termite treatment?

The choice of anti-termite treatment depends on several factors, such as the nature and extent of the infestation, the type of construction, environmental and budgetary constraints. It is recommended to call on a professional to carry out a diagnosis and propose the most suitable solution.

What precautions should be taken during an anti-termite treatment?

During an anti-termite treatment, it is important to follow safety instructions and the professional's recommendations. It may be necessary to temporarily leave the premises, protect food and pets, or ventilate the treated rooms.

Conclusion

Anti-termite treatments are essential to protect our homes from damage caused by these wood-eating insects. Chemical, physical or biological, these treatments each have advantages and disadvantages. To choose the solution best suited to your situation, it is recommended to call on a professional and to respect the precautions for use during the implementation of the treatment.