Termite Treatments and Fumigations

Subterranean termites and Drywood termites

Over 2,300 species of termites have been identified worldwide, with most species thriving in tropical climates. While the majority of these species do not pose a threat to structures, termites remain one of the most destructive structural pests in the United States. In Southern California, termite infestations are a serious concern for homeowners and property managers.

In the U.S., only four groups of termites are considered economically important: Subterranean termites, Drywood termites, Dampwood termites, and Powderpost termites. Of these groups, Subterranean termites and Drywood termites account for nearly all structural damage in Southern California.

Types of Termite Damage

Subterranean Termite Damage

Subterranean termites live in the soil and require constant access to moisture in order to survive. These termites construct earthen shelter tubes, commonly referred to as mud tubes, that extend from the soil into a structure. These tubes provide protection from predators and help maintain a humid environment necessary for their survival.

In rare cases, subterranean termites may establish secondary colonies above ground when sufficient moisture and wood are available, such as in roof leaks, plumbing leaks, or areas with chronic moisture intrusion. Subterranean termite damage often occurs out of sight and can remain undetected for long periods of time.

Drywood Termite Damage

Drywood termites live entirely within wood and do not require contact with soil. They obtain the moisture they need from humid air, which is why Drywood termite infestations are more common in coastal and near-coastal regions of Southern California.

Drywood termites infest structural lumber, furniture, trim, doors, and framing. Their presence is often indicated by the appearance of fecal pellets, also known as frass, which are expelled from small kick-out holes in the wood.

Understanding the Termite Colony

Termites are highly social insects that live in organized colonies. Like many insects, termites undergo three primary life stages: egg, immature (nymph), and adult. Within the adult stage, termites are divided into three primary castes: reproductives, workers, and soldiers.

• Reproductives: Responsible for reproduction and colony expansion.
• Workers: Feed the colony, construct tunnels, and cause structural damage.
• Soldiers: Defend the colony against predators.

As a colony matures and reaches sufficient size, it may produce winged reproductives known as swarmers. These termites leave the colony to establish new infestations.

Termite Swarmers

Swarmers are the most visible and recognizable form of termites and are often thefirst sign of an active infestation. Swarms typically occur in warmer months, especially following rain or periods of high humidity.

Swarming termites are commonly mistaken for ants. However, termites can be identified by their straight antennae, thick waists, and wings that are equal in length. The presence of swarmers indoors is a strong indication that a termite colony is present within or very near the structure.

Professional Termite Control Methods

Subterranean Termite Control

Subterranean termite control typically involves the application of liquid termiticides to the soil or the installation of termite bait and monitoring systems around the structure. The goal of these treatments is to establish a continuous protective barrier between the termite colony and the structure.

Termite bait systems do not leave residual chemicals in the soil. Instead, they work by reducing or eliminating termite colonies over time. While baiting systems offer a less invasive option, research continues to improve their effectiveness and delivery methods.

Drywood Termite Treatment Options

Drywood termite control methods are categorized as either whole-structure treatments or localized (spot) treatments. It is important for property owners to understand the differences between these methods, as they are not equivalent in effectiveness.

Localized or Spot Treatments

Localized treatments are applied to specific boards or limited areas where termite activity is detected. These treatments are detection-dependent and may not address hidden or inaccessible infestations within the structure.

Whole-Structure Treatments

Whole-structure treatments involve treating all accessible and inaccessible areas of a structure at the same time. Because these treatments are not detection-dependent, they provide the highest level of confidence that all termite infestations have been eliminated.

Fumigation as a Whole-Structure Treatment

Fumigation is the most effective whole-structure treatment for Drywood termites. The process involves sealing the structure and introducing Sulfuryl Fluoride gas at lethal concentrations to eliminate termites throughout the entire building.

Sulfuryl Fluoride is colorless, odorless, and leaves no residue after aeration. To ensure safety, a warning agent called Chloropicrin is introduced prior to fumigation. Chloropicrin has a strong odor and causes irritation to alert occupants if exposure occurs.

Fumigation Preparation Requirements

• All people, pets, fish, and plants must be removed from the structure.
• All food, medications, and consumables must be removed or sealed in approved bags.
• Plants near the structure should be trimmed and the soil perimeter heavily watered.
• Antennas, chimney caps, and weather vanes must be removed.
• Fences attached to the structure may require temporary board removal.
• All mattresses and pillows with waterproof coverings must be removed or uncovered.

Fumigant Dosage Determination

Due to variations in structure design, environmental conditions, temperature, exposure time, and termite species, no two fumigation jobs are identical. The required dosage of Sulfuryl Fluoride is calculated by licensed professionals to ensure effective termite elimination.

Fumigation Period and Aeration

The fumigant is typically held within the structure for a period of 16 to 30 hours. After the exposure period, the structure is aerated using fans and inlet devices for a minimum of 12 hours to remove the gas.

Re-Entry and Safety Certification

Before re-entry is permitted, the structure must be tested and certified safe by the licensed fumigator. Gas concentrations must measure one (1) part per million (ppm) or less. Secondary locks are installed on all entry points to prevent unauthorized access until certification is complete.

Tier 1 Termite Follows Strict Safety Standards

This is to ensure the protection of occupants, pets, and surrounding environments during every fumigation process.

For more information click on link below:
Los Angeles County Agricultural Commissioner