How to Deal with Termites in Florida: Key Things to Know

Here in the Sunshine State, we already understand that with the warm and humid weather, it is the ideal host to unwanted house guests- termite swarmers– that infiltrate, eat away at your home internally, and create expensive repairs. When you are also researching how to trap mice, it may seem unlikely that How to deal with Termites in Florida are included in the list but combating the menace of termites is a matter of supreme importance as well. In this blog in saynopest, we will walk you through the process of identifying terms in Florida, how early signs of termite infestation can be spotted, the advantages and disadvantages of DIY termite control compared with professional termite treatments, the most effective form of termite treatment, and how to keep terms at bay.

Knowing more Common Florida Termites

The Three largest groups of termites are found in Florida:

Below ground termites (Eastern subterranean termite and invasive Formosan termite) nest in the ground and construct mud tunnels in order to reach wood. Eastern subterranean termite is the most common and damaging species of Eastern species and may cause massive destruction before inhabitants realize this. 

Furniture termites inhabit directly in dry wood. They do not require contact with ground In Florida, especially in the central/south regions, Florida West Indian dry wood termites enter our homes through the Aerochloros (swarms). 

Rottenwood termites live within moist, rotting wood conditions-such as those found in wet wood which was left exposed to rain or roof leaks. They execute more gradually but manage to corrode structures all the same with time 

A third species of termite, the Florida dark-winged subterranean(Amitermes floridensis) occupies much of West-central Florida, including St. Petersburg and Punta Gorda. This makes short tubes and frequently swarms in summer, after rainfall. 

The best and safest place to start diagnosing a problem is by researching your local Florida termite identification resources, such as university extension sites.

Termite Infestation signs in Florida

One possible clue is to check early infestations by looking at:

• Mud tubes on the foundations, walls or piers – characteristics of the subterranean termites. 

• Shed wings or little heaps of wings against the windows or other light-sources–shed by termite swarmers. 

• Wood that rings empty when tapped or displaying blistered paint and squishy areas- damage on the inside caused by termites. 

Droppings (frass) – drywood termites produce finely powdered droppings, which are usually emitted beneath infested lumber. 

Warping and sagging floors or uneven tiles and doors or windows with jams are signs of structural wood being compromised. 

When you pool these clues together with powerful, Florida termite recipes, you are surely getting ahead of the game in catching termite infestation as early as possible.

Professional Termite vs. DIY Control

In your choice of how to go about DIY vs professional termite control, take note of:

DIY Pros:

Better written off cost up front

Local treatment in a short period with such products as boric acid, orange oil, nematodes, and so on. 

DIY Cons:

• Not very effective in large, or in hidden colonies
• May need to replenishment or other tools
• Does not promise to control over time 

Professional Pros:

• Have available potent and exclusive tools (liquid termiticides, bait systems, fumigation)
• Identification and focussed intervention by the expert
• Very often warranties and follow up checks are included 

Professional Cons:

• More expensive (usually 1,000-3000+ in Florida) 
• Scheduling and home access are required

So when damage is localized and the problem is small, do-it-yourself can be effective – but extensive or structural damage is an area where the benefits and disadvantages of termite control DIY vs professional clearly favor pros.

Good Methods of Termite Treatment

These are the most effective termite treatments in Florida homes:

Professional Methods:

Liquid termiticides form a chemical barrier around the crevices of your home to repel or kill the subterranean termites. 

Bait stations are dug underground and are baited with cellulose combined with slow acting toxins to attract the termites. Termites take bait back to the colony in an effort to destroy it. 

Fumigation or heating methods are good especially when dealing with drywood termites and destroying whole colonies in closed buildings. 

DIY Options:

Boric acid is applied to the wood or in bait stations and it paralyzes the termite digestion- but works best with drywood termites. 

Hoffer Pest Solutions

Orange oil, in a hole drilled into infested wood will kill the termites when they come in contact with it; effective against small localized areas of infestation. 

Diatomaceous earth sprinkled around termite trails dehydrates them, but only as it comes in direct contact. 

Vinegar / lemon juice solutions: frugal, non-chemical, instantaneous-kills at point of contact only-limited range of effect. 

Useful nematodes: Microscopic parasites that are inoculated into the soil and kill subterranean termite populations -not as effective against dry wood. 

Professional and DIY techniques may be used together to cover these gaps, however, the best termite treatment techniques are crucial especially depending on the termite involved.

Prevention of future termite infestation

Prevention ensures safety of a house in the long run. Important measures include

• Repair leaks immediately and clear proper drainage to prevent the accumulation of water which is an attraction to the termites. 
• Make sure wood, mulch, and firewood are not next to a foundational wall of your house (especially when talking about subterranean species). 
• Repair faulty seal foundations and boost crawlspace ventilation. 
• Professionally Inspect annually, maintain bait systems to have early detection. 
• Just One of entrepreneur Florida Pest Control
• Maintain clear and dry gutters and dryer vents to check moisture build up. 
• Persistent knowledge of Florida termite identification and initiative will protect your house 

Conclusion

Termites are quiet but stern menaces in the hot and humid climate in Florida. Understanding how to catch mice could address one kind of pest problem-but when it comes to learning how to deal with termites in Florida, good observation, proper identification, and action make a huge difference towards appropriate control.

Learn the advantages and disadvantages between doing it yourself and professional termite control services- DIY termite control only carries limited guarantees and benefits where professionals have stronger ones.

Apply the most efficient termite control strategies, which strike the right balance between consumer based choices and effective professional options.

Remain on the offensive when it comes to prevention: fix leaks, control moisture and wood trash, block entry way openings, and have annual inspections.

A judicious use of prevention and treatment smart tactics will help you keep your home termite-free. We strive to ensure that you find the best ways to secure your property with direct, non-fluff advice so you trust the information you read.