Getting Rid of Termites: DIY or Not?

Find out whether over-the-counter pesticides can help a termite infestation, or if calling an exterminator is always necessary.

LESLIE: Terry in Mississippi is on the line looking for some help to get rid of termites. Tell us what’s going on.

TERRY: Yes. I’d like to know: what kind of spray should I get for termites?

TOM: Well, termite treatment is not a do-it-yourself project. Because termites really need to be professionally treated because of where they live. They live deep in the soil, Terry. And so, to treat them effectively, a termiticide has to be applied to the soil and in a continuous bond all the way around your house.

And what happens with the modern termiticides is they’re undetectable, so the termites don’t know it’s in the soil. They pass through it, they get it on their bodies and then they go back to the nest and pass it to all their termite friends. And that wipes out the entire nest.

So, it’s not really a do-it-yourself project. I would talk to some exterminators and maybe ask specifically about a product called Termidor – T-e-r-m-i-d-o-r. Good product. It’s been around for a long time. I used it in my own house and it’s an undetectable termiticide that’s very effective and lasts for many years.

Good luck with that project. Thanks so much for calling us at 888-MONEY-PIT.