How to Choose an Effective Termite Killer?

When termites appear in your home, many people instinctively reach for a spray bottle of termite or insecticide. However, in reality, this method may lead to the termite problem spreading to other areas within the house. Using termite sprays alone is an improper solution that does not eliminate the root cause—the termite nests underground. Although you may witness immediate termite mortality after spraying,

termites will likely resurface in different areas. This can result in more extensive damage than before because the surviving termites will communicate with others and relocate their foraging activities to quieter areas, evading human interference, and making it harder.

And until you found them again,  Things in the house may already be damaged, so if you want to get rid of termites effectively, Rentokil experts recommend proper extermination methods and the use of appropriate termite control chemicals or pesticides.

If you are uncertain about whether your home is infested with termites or if you need further advice on termite control, contact Rentokil experts at 02 290 8500 or fill out the form below.

1. Termite Treatment for Preemptive Protection in Homes without Existing Termite Problems

For homes that have yet to encounter termite problems, there may not be a sense of urgency in terms of prevention. However, we recommend that every home proactively conduct inspections at vulnerable points. If signs of termites are detected, it is advised not to attempt self-application of termite spray. Instead, consult an expert in selecting appropriate termite control chemicals. These termite control substances or pesticides can be broadly categorized into 2 main types:

• Termite Repellents (Repellent Effect)
• Non-Repellent Termite Killers (Non-Repellent Effect)

In the case of homes currently under construction, Rentokil suggests opting for termite control chemicals with a repellent effect. These chemicals contain active ingredients from the pyrethroid group, such as bifenthrin

or alpha-cypermethrin. These should be applied by injecting or embedding them into the ground before the flooring process. The use of these termite sprays ensures that the soil surrounding the house becomes toxic, preventing termites from entering the house's premises. Furthermore, these chemicals can remain effective in the soil for 3-5 years.

For completed homes, it is recommended to utilize termite control chemicals with a non-repellent effect. These chemicals fall within the phenylpyrazole group, such as fipronil or neonicotinoids, including imidacloprid.

When worker termites come into contact with or pass through areas treated with termite control chemicals, they may not die immediately. However, these chemicals will be on the termites and reach their underground nests. As the termites engage in food transmission or interact with other termites within the nest, the chemicals will be spread throughout, inhibiting the molting process of the termites. Consequently, their growth is stunted, leading to eventual demise.

Additionally, termites tend to consume termite carcasses, thereby continuously spreading the chemicals among themselves.

2. Termite Treatment for Homes with Existing Termite Infestations

As mentioned earlier, if you encounter termite problems, it is advisable not to use termite spray by yourself or disturb the termite pathways, as this can further spread the problem. If a termite infestation is present, it is recommended to use a non-repellent termite spray (Non-Repellent Effect), such as chemicals from the phenylpyrazole group (phenylpyrazole) or chemicals that inhibit termite growth (Insect Growth Regulator: IGR), such as hexaflumuron. These chemicals are commonly used in termite bait systems.

When termites come into contact with or consume bait containing these chemicals for termite elimination, it will not cause immediate death to the termites. Instead, the termites will carry the chemicals back to their nest, resulting in continuous transmission of the chemicals within the nest.

In the case of chemicals from the Insect Growth Regulator (IGR) group, they work by preventing termites from molting and eventually leading to their demise. This method typically yields results within 45-90 days, depending on the size of the termite colony.

Tip: Rentokil's advice is to inquire about the termite killers or active ingredients used for termite control before choosing a service from a termite control company. This will help you determine which type of termite control chemicals are suitable and most effective for your house. Additionally, it is important to check whether the termite killer used by the staff is a new bottle and if they are using the recommended amount when they perform the service.