What Termites Are and Why They’re Dangerous
Termites are wood‑eating insects that live in colonies. They feed on cellulose found in wood, paper, and other plant materials. Unlike ants, they consume wood from the inside out, often leaving a hollow shell that looks normal until serious damage has occurred. Over time, termite activity can weaken foundations, floors, walls, and support beams, leading to major repair costs if left untreated.
At Old Bay Pest Control, technicians offer termite inspection, treatment, and ongoing protection services to help homeowners identify termite issues early and keep infestations under control.
Signs You Might Have Termites
Unlike roaches or ants, termites rarely wander into the open during the day. Here are common warning signs that termites may be present:
- Discarded wings — After reproductive swarmers mate, they shed wings near windows, doors, or light sources.
- Mud tubes on foundations — Subterranean termites build earthen tubes along concrete or wood to travel between nests and food sources.
- Hollow sounds in wood — Tapping wood that sounds hollow may indicate internal termite damage.
- Frass (termite droppings) — Drywood termites leave tiny pellet‑like droppings around infested wood.
If you notice any of these around your property, it’s time for a proper termite inspection starting with professionals like Old Bay Pest Control.
How to Get Rid of Termites (Professional and Homeowner Strategies)
Termite control is complex and most effective when performed by trained professionals. However, understanding the methods helps you know what to expect:
1. Professional Inspection
A licensed technician from Old Bay Pest Control will assess your home, identify termite species, locate colonies, and check structural damage. This step determines the most effective control strategy.
2. Liquid Soil‑Applied Termiticides (Barrier Treatments)
This is one of the most widely used termite control methods. A technician applies a chemical barrier around the foundation or under slabs. The liquid termiticide creates a chemical shield that termites can’t cross without picking up the active ingredient and carrying it back to the colony.
Benefits:
- Works for subterranean termites.
- Provides a barrier that deters and kills foragers.
- Professional application ensures soil coverage is adequate.
3. Termite Baiting Systems
Bait stations are placed around the property, often every 10–15 feet. Those contain a slow‑acting substance that termites bring back to the colony. Over time, the bait disrupts termite development, which can reduce or eliminate the colony.
How it works:
- Termites eat the bait and share it with others.
- The bait often contains an insect growth regulator that halts reproduction.
- Effective long‑term strategy, especially in combination with barriers.
4. Wood Treatments
In some cases especially with drywood termites technicians treat wood directly. This may involve applying termiticides or foams into cracks or voids within infested wood. These products kill termites on contact and limit further feeding.
5. Fumigation (for Drywood Termites)
For widespread drywood termite infestations throughout a home, structural fumigation (tenting) may be recommended. This involves sealing the structure and using a gas fumigant that penetrates wood and voids to eliminate termites.
Note: This method is usually reserved for severe infestations and must be done by licensed professionals.
DIY Approaches — What Works and What Doesn’t
Home remedies like orange oil, borate sprays, and physical barriers can help support termite control but rarely eliminate infestations on their own. They may reduce localized activity, but they don’t reliably treat colonies deep in soil or inside structural wood without professional application and monitoring.
Prevention Tips to Keep Termites Away
Stopping termites before they invade is often easier than dealing with a full infestation. Key prevention strategies include:
- Remove wood‑to‑soil contact — Keep wood siding, deck posts, and mulch at least several inches off the ground.
- Reduce moisture near foundations — Fix leaky gutters, downspouts, and pipes.
- Store firewood and lumber away from the house — Wood piles next to structures attract termites.
- Seal cracks and openings in foundations and walls — Reduces hidden entry points.
- Annual termite inspections — Early detection helps catch termite activity before major damage occurs.
Partnering with a professional service like Old Bay Pest Control also gives you ongoing prevention plans to guard against future infestations.
Why Professional Termite Control Matters
Termites can cause serious structural damage that isn’t always visible until it’s costly to repair. Professional treatments are essential because:
- They target termites both at entry points and within colonies.
- Technicians use products and application methods unavailable to the general public.
- Improper DIY treatments risk exposure to chemicals without solving the problem.
- Regular monitoring and follow‑up ensure termites don’t return.
A licensed service like Old Bay Pest Control ensures treatments are done safely and thoroughly, helping protect homes in Annapolis and Anne Arundel County with customized termite solutions.
Summary: Getting Rid of Termites
Here’s the termite control process in a nutshell:
- Inspect for signs of termites.
- Apply professional treatments such as soil barriers and baiting systems.
- Use wood treatments or fumigation when needed.
- Implement ongoing monitoring and prevention.
- Consider professional service plans to protect your home year after year.
If termites are suspected or confirmed, contact Old Bay Pest Control for a termite inspection and customized treatment plan that protects your investment and keeps your home safe.
