Most people dread the thought of tenting their home for termite fumigation. You need to leave your home for at least two nights, bag all your food and let strangers in your home. It’s not cheap, and once it’s done, your home looks the same as before. Understandably, many homeowners seek alternative termite treatments. While some of these methods can be effective in specific scenarios, others raise eyebrows within the industry.

Here’s a closer look at some of the more questionable alternatives:

Orange Oil: A Natural Alternative

For those averse to tenting or chemical treatments, Orange Oil often seems like an appealing option. However, its effectiveness is limited.

• Repellent, Not a Killer: Termites can smell and taste Orange Oil, causing them to avoid treated areas rather than eliminating them. For the oil to be effective, it must come into direct contact with termites, which is rarely practical.
• Short-Term Protection: While chemical termiticides like fipronil can remain effective for years, Orange Oil treatments typically lose potency within six months.
• Fire Hazard: Orange Oil is flammable, posing an additional risk when applied to wood—a material already susceptible to fire.

Electro-Gun: Misused Technology

The Electro-Gun is another alternative with potential—but only when used as intended.

• Proper Use Requires Precision: The device was designed to work in tandem with drilled holes and metal rods inserted along infested wood. These rods conduct electricity deep into the material, targeting termites effectively.
• Common Misuse: Many companies skip the drilling and rod insertion steps, rendering the treatment largely ineffective as the electricity discharges along the surface without penetrating the wood.

Subterranean Termite Bait Stations

Bait stations are designed to attract foraging termites, which then carry the termiticide back to their colony. While effective in theory, they have notable limitations.

• Limited Coverage: Bait stations are small and easy for termites to bypass, failing to form a reliable barrier between the colony and your home.
• Profit Over Performance: Comprehensive soil treatments provide long-lasting protection but only require a one-time payment. Bait stations, however, allow companies to charge ongoing fees, often prioritizing profits over effectiveness.

Heat Treatments

Heat treatments can be effective when done correctly, particularly in attics. However, success depends on proper execution.

• Attention to Detail Matters: The wood must reach 130°F for at least 30 minutes to ensure termites are eradicated. This requires planting sensors in the wood and consistently monitoring temperatures—a step some technicians may skip.
• Inconsistent Results: While experienced and diligent technicians can achieve great results, improper application can leave termites unaffected.

The Best Termite Control Solutions

While alternative treatments might work in certain situations, the two most reliable termite treatments remain:

1. Fumigation: Comprehensive and effective for drywood termites.
2. Combination Treatments: Locally treating infested wood with fipronil, coupled with a preventative borate treatment on exposed wood, provides long-lasting protection.

When it comes to protecting your home, shortcuts are a gamble. Opt for proven methods to ensure lasting results.