4 Major Termite Chemical Treatments for Control
- Arsenic Dust. Also known as arsenic trioxide, this deadly poison has proven very effective in termite control. Often...
- Hexaflumuron. Unlike the first mentioned chemical, this termite pesticide is slow-acting, yet it is also very effective...
- Imidacloprid. Derived from nicotine, this termite-killing chemical is very...
What chemicals are used to kill termites?
They pump the tent full of gaseous chemicals, which kill termites, as well as virtually any other living thing within the home. While methyl bromide once served as the primary chemical for termite tenting, it has been phased out in favor of odorless, colorless sulfuryl fluoride.
What is a termite tenting treatment?
Tenting involves draping termite-infested structure with a tent and introducing poisons into the tent to kill the termites. The homeowners must carefully follow the exterminator's instructions and find other accommodations during the treatment cycle, which lasts 2-3 days.
Does fumigation kill termites when the tent is up?
The main danger of fumigation is simply from the sulfur gas, as it’s known to be a very toxic substance to humans, pets, fish, and even plants. Of course, it has to be powerful so it can kill termites when the tent is up (and all the other pests hiding in your home).
How long do termite control chemicals last?
As shown by a study conducted by the Indian Forest Research Institute Dehradoon, most chemicals used for controlling termites have effects that last for as long as nine years. What that simply means is that once applied to a construction site, such effect can last up to 9 years on that area before the need to re-apply the chemical arises.
How toxic is termite fumigation?
Chemicals used in fumigation are lethal! Exposure to fumigants in a structure being fumigated, even for a few minutes, will result in death or serious injury. Absolutely NO ONE can enter a structure until it has been certified safe for re-entry by the licensee in charge of the fumigation.
What chemicals are used in termite fumigation?
Structural fumigations for termite extermination are conducted by the thousands annually in the United States. The active chemical commonly used is sulfuryl fluoride, an odorless gas that targets the nervous system.
Is fumigation toxic to humans?
Inhalation is the most dangerous and common route of exposure to fumigants. Most are highly toxic so breathing even small amounts can cause serious illness or death. Exposure also can occur thorough your eyes, mouth, or skin.
Is Vikane toxic to humans?
Vikane is classified as a restricted use pesticide due to its inhalation toxicity.
What happens if you eat food exposed to Vikane gas?
Will that cause me harm? No adverse health effects would be expected from consumption of some food items inadvertently fumigated with Vikane. The residue that can form in unprotected food items exposed to Vikane is fluoride, which naturally occurs in food and water.
What does Vikane gas smell like?
Vikane is a colorless, odorless, tasteless gas.
Can I sleep in my house after fumigation?
You cannot stay in your home during structural fumigation and neither can your pets or plants. You need to remove any living thing from your property for the duration of the treatment. You also need to pack your food and medicine in special bags designed for this process.
Do you need to wash everything after fumigation?
Regular fumigation of your house will lead to a pest-free environment. After fumigation, you will need to clean your home to get rid of any chemicals before you get into the house. Cleaning a house after fumigation will also get rid of the dead pests lying around the house.
What needs to be bagged when tenting for termites?
Anything in resealable containers, including plastic containers, such as milk, butter, sour cream and cot- tage cheese. Eggs, fruits, vegetables and any oth- er forms of produce. Sample items that must be bagged or removed from the structure being fumigated .
How long does it take Vikane to dissipate?
two to three daysPlease don't fumigate with sulfuryl fluoride (Vikane) as it is not safe. They say it will dissipate in two to three days, but where does it go? Part of it goes into the atmosphere, where it is a major greenhouse gas.
Why are my eyes burning after fumigation?
Therefore, prior to the fumigation, applicators introduce trace amounts of a warning agent, chloropicrin, into the structure. Chloropicrin has a strong odor and will cause respiratory and eye irritation. Symptoms include tears, burning eyes, difficulty breathing, coughing, headaches, and nausea.
Why is gas turned off during fumigation?
Normally they turn the gas off a day before the fumigation for vacant properties, and same day for occupied properties, this is to try to minimize the time without that basic utility.
First, What Are Termites?
Termites are wood-eating insects that can seriously damage homes and any other structures made of wood. They are similar to ants in size and appear...
Why Is Termite Tenting A Cause For Concern?
When the tent is removed, the poison escapes into the atmosphere. The chemicals used in this fumigation process, and other termite treatments, caus...
Alternatives to Termite Tenting
Researchers and healthcare providers encourage using less toxic and harmful pesticides to eradicate termites. According to the University of Kentuc...
If Tenting Is Your only Option
While there are several options available to eradicate termites, tenting is often recommended when there is widespread infestation. If tenting is y...
What is the name of the drug that kills termites?
Premise® (imidacloprid -- implicated in the death of honeybees around the world), Termidor® (fipronil ), and Phantom® (chlorfenapyr), are non-repellent and kill termites tunneling into the treatment zone.
What is the best way to treat termites in a tent?
According to the University of Kentucky Entomology Department, there are two other options to tent treatment for termites: baiting and liquid soil application.
What is the best way to kill termites in a building?
Termiticides applied to the soil around the infested property create a lasting poisonous barrier that prevents termites in the ground from entering a building. Termites already in the structure die when they cannot return to the soil. Premise® (imidacloprid -- implicated in the death of honeybees around the world), Termidor® (fipronil), and Phantom® (chlorfenapyr), are non-repellent and kill termites tunneling into the treatment zone.
What is termite baiting?
Baiting. The termite baiting process is complicated and, as with other termite treatments, should be handled by professionals only. Basically, the process involves placing paper or cardboard treated with a slow-acting poison. Termites are attracted to the bait, eat it, and eventually die.
What happens when a tent is removed?
When the tent is removed, the poison escapes into the atmosphere. The chemicals used in this fumigation process, and other termite treatments, cause many experts to worry about environmental and physical health.
Is termite protection important?
If you’re like most people, your home is the single largest financial investment of your life. Protecting that investment from threats such as termites is a high priority. On the other hand, you don’t want to take pest control measures that may be potentially harmful to human beings.
Do termites have antennae?
They are similar to ants in size and appearance. However, termites do not have the pinched-in waist and bent antennae that distinguish ants. One of the most visible signs of termites in your home (besides damage to the wood, of course) is discarded wings during the spring mating season. Ants never shed their wings.
What is the chemical used to kill termites?
Lindane. Lindane is another strong chemical that is used for controlling the activities of termites in buildings and construction sites. The termite poison also affects the nervous system of insects, subsequently leading to their death.
What is the strongest termite chemical?
Permethrin SFR is one of the strongest termite chemicals you should look out for if you hope to permanently control the activities of these insects.
How effective is termite treatment?
The use of top quality termite treatment chemicals and poisons has been proven to be the most effective way of controlling these little creatures who seem to have been created for only one purpose -destruction. According to the United States Environmental Protection Agency, every year termites cause billions of dollars in structural damage, ...
How long do termite treatments last?
As shown by a study conducted by the Indian Forest Research Institute Dehradoon, most chemicals used for controlling termites have effects that last for as long as nine years.
What is the purpose of termiticides?
Such a level of destruction calls for the use of very effective termiticides to completely halt the activities of termites in our surroundings.
What are the side effects of termite control?
Side effects like difficulty in breathing, vomiting, fever, diarrhea, etc, may show up immediately while other symptoms may take time to manifest before we notice them. Below are some of the negative effects of termite control chemicals that have been discovered by scientists: Adverse Skin Conditions.
How long does termite last on a construction site?
What that simply means is that once applied to a construction site, such effect can last up to 9 years on that area before the need to re-apply the chemical arises. Some of the most recommended termiticides for construction include:
What is termite tenting?
Termite tenting is a very effective treatment when dealing with Drywood termites. While the process of treating a home infested with termites is done by pest control professionals, you have a part to play in the tenting process. When it is time to treat your home for termites there are a few things you can do. ...
How to keep termites out of your house?
It is a precautionary measure that ensures the termites have no place to hide. Open All Doors Between Rooms. Leave the doors between rooms open to all the chemical to spread through the house. You should also leave the closets, drawers, and cabinets.
What to do when fumigating furniture?
Clean Utensils, Furniture, and All Surfaces. It is important to wash all the utensils and clothes to rid them of the fumigation chemicals – even those sealed away. Also, remember to wipe the floors, doors, windows, shelves, countertops to rid the surfaces of any chemical residue.
How to get rid of pests in your house?
Take Out All Plants. Remove all indoor plants as well as those on the patios and place outside your home. Ensure that you protect them from damage by moving them away from the perimeter of your home so that your pest control specialists can tent your home without obstruction. Uncover The Furniture and Upholstery.
Can termites be removed from tents?
The termite treatment experts will remove the tent as planned on the determined day. The pest control experts will check the quality of air using special equipment before you are allowed to enter your home. Remember to open all the door and windows to air the rooms to allow the chemicals to dissipate.
Do you need a key for termite treatment?
Leave Your Keys. The termite treatment professionals will need keys to every section of your home and will be keen to lock up the place when finished. There is likely a secondary locking system for the house to ensure nobody enters the home during fumigation and the 24-hour quarantine period.
Can you re-inspect a termite tent?
Termite tenting can be overwhelming, however, with proper preparations, termite tenting becomes easier. You should know what is expected of you in the tenting process and be sure that you are working with a reputable termite fumigation expert.
What to take out of a termite fumigation?
This may include jewelry, antiques, or electronics. Next, take out any medications you may consume. This not only includes the medicines you need to use during the time of your termite fumigation but all medications .
How long before termite fumigation can you use food?
Stop purchasing new food items a couple of weeks before the scheduled termite fumigation. Use up as many perishable items as you can. Any food items in bags (such as chips) or cardboard boxes (such as cereal, crackers, and pasta) must be removed before the termite treatment.
How long does it take to get rid of termites?
1) Prepare Your Family to Leave. Termite tenting can be a few day processes from start to finish. So be prepared to have what you need for approximately 72 hours —especially medications. The number one priority is to find accommodations for your entire family during this time.
What happens if you enter a property during fumigation?
Entering a property during fumigation may lead to serious injury or death.
Is termite tenting scary?
Termite tenting is scary for most people. You’re unsure what to do, you’re embarrassed that you have an insect issue, and you’re worried about the results of fumigating. Let us put your mind at ease.
Do you leave shutters open for termite tenting?
It is also recommended that any interior shutters, shades, or drapes are left open for termite fumigators to treat your home more easily. The exterior of your home also needs to be prepared.
Can you remove pets from a termite tent?
First, you should have removed any pets from your property, but you will also want to remove any living plants from inside the home.
What safety gear is needed for termite fumigation?
The basic safety gear for termite fumigation includes safety goggles for the protection of your eyes. Safety helm ets are also are a requirement. Respiratory masks are indispensable when conducting termite fumigation yourself. This gear helps filter out harmful vapors and fumigant particles.
What is the best way to prepare for termite tenting?
One of the vital steps when preparing for termite tenting is the placement of a warning agent. For the sake of clarity, a warning agent like Chloropicrin is generally used. A small amount of this compound is used before the application of the fumigant (Vikane). Chloropicrin is a colorless liquid that has a strong odor.
What is fumigation gas used for?
The termite fumigation gas used, penetrates openings such as pores, cracks, and crevices, hence killing all termites. Large tarps are used to cover structures before the fumigant is released.
How long should you stay out of your house after termite fumigation?
While some fumigants are odorless, others aren’t. So, if by chance you perceive anything unusual, you’d need to stay out of your home for a couple of days.
What is the warning agent for tearing eyes?
In measured doses, the warning agent Chloropicrin causes tearing and eye irritations. During the application of this warning agent, you’ll need a shallow pan and an absorbent material. The liquid is poured into a shallow pan containing the absorbent material.
How to get rid of a sandbox in an apartment?
Take away your documents, computer, and other sensitive electronics. Remove all medications, pills, tablet, and cosmetics . Place plants outside the fumigation area. Remove pets, their food, and medications. Dispose of all dirt and waste, as well as bins placed beside your apartment.
Can termite fumigation go wrong?
What we’re trying to say is the need to use the services of fumigation experts for safety reasons. Handling termite fumigation yourself is likely to go wrong on several fronts.
What happens when termites get gas in a tent?
The gas will seep into every area and penetrates wood structures where termites eat and live . This also means that pests hiding in beams, walls, or even floorboards are covered. These areas are typically not accessible by ordinary means. Afterward, they’ll release the gas into the air and take down the tent.
What gas does a tarp use?
Then they’ll pump in sulfuryl fluoride, often with chloropicrin (tear gas). Both of these gases combined provide a lethal combination that can kill any pest, human, dog, cat, fish, and pretty much any other living being.
How long should you stay out of the house after fumigation?
After the fumigation, your specialist will measure the gas levels in your home.
How long can you stay out of your home after a tent comes down?
But if you’re paranoid, you can stay out of your home for a few more days just to be sure. However, there’s no real timeframe you should stay out after the tent comes down. The gas leaves quickly and is generally safe to enter when the levels drop below 1ppm.
What can a pest do to your house?
Depending on the type of pest, they can leave some pretty nasty stains all over your home’s walls, floors, and surfaces. The setup outdoors may also damage some parts of your home, such as damage gutters, roofing tiles, and your plants.
Is it safe to put termites in a tent?
Termite tenting is pretty safe when everyone follows directions. The main danger of fumigation is simply from the sulfur gas, as it’s known to be a very toxic substance to humans, pets, fish, and even plants. Of course, it has to be powerful so it can kill termites when the tent is up (and all the other pests hiding in your home).
Is termite tenting dangerous?
Termite tenting dangers for neighbors. Termites in the neighborhood pose some common questions. Many times the neighbors (me in this case) are often worried about bugs escaping over or breathing the lethal gas. Both of these are often speculated rumors with no solid evidence.
What is the chemical used to kill termites?
While methyl bromide once served as the primary chemical for termite tenting, it has been phased out in favor of odorless, colorless sulfuryl fluoride. The sulfuryl fluoride is mixed with chloropicrin, a form of tear gas, which helps warn anyone who comes near the house that a dangerous chemical is present.
What is termite tenting?
House tenting, otherwise known as "structural fumigation," is a localized method of pest control that is commonly used when other forms of pest removal would be untenable.
How to safely tent a termite?
The best way to ensure that you approach termite tenting safely is to follow all instructions given by your pest removal professional. In some cases, this could mean finding a temporary residence for a few days to a week or more. The professionals will secure tarps around your home before pumping gas into the makeshift "tent." Many times, the sulfuryl fluoride is mixed with a form of tear gas known as chloropicrin. This is a precautionary measure to caution people from getting too close to the building while it is being fumigated.
What happens when you remove a termite tent?
While remaining in the home during termite tenting means certain death for animals, humans and plants, sulfuryl fluoride rapidly dissipates once the tent is removed from the home. The building and the materials within do not retain toxic levels of this chemical. Levels of the gas decline to near undetectable levels, even without the use of fans, open doors or open windows, once the tent is removed. When termite tenting is performed properly, occupants are not cleared to re-enter the home until levels have reached below 1 ppm, a level set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
How effective is sulfuryl fluoride for termites?
Advertisement. Despite the environmental risks, sulfuryl fluoride is one of the most effective ways to kill termites that could otherwise destroy your home.
How long do termites stay in a tent?
During termite tenting, the occupants of the home, including plants and pets, must find somewhere else to live for two to three days due to fumigation dangers. Pest control professionals drape the house in heavy sheets of vinyl-coated nylon tarps, then secure these with tape and plastic sheeting to form a tent around the home.
Can you use tenting to kill termites?
In some instances, tenting can be used in homes, businesses and other structures to remove beetles, bed bugs and termites. Before choosing to use tenting in your home or office, there are some things that should be considered, however, as this method of pest control can prove fatal to humans, pets or plants if proper precautions are not taken.
How much Dragnet did Orkin use to treat termites?
Shortly after Orkin applied more than 160 gallons of Dragnet FT to treat termite infestation at his Coloma, Mich., home in 1999, Veal's youngest daughter, Lindsay, had to be rushed to the hospital for vomiting and diarrhea. Veal says he suffered from upper respiratory problems and "couldn't think straight.".
What did Rob Steinbach do to get rid of ants?
Rob Steinbach found this out after a Terminix technician sprayed around his Memphis home in late 1997 to get rid of an ant infestation. Instead, the ants multiplied. What did Steinbach do? "We went on the Terminix Web site's online database and found the type of ants we had, Pharaoh ants. It said that if you spray, the colony will divide," says Steinbach. "We went out and bought our own baits, and within six weeks the ants were gone." Steinbach then canceled his pest service contract with Terminix. While not commenting on Steinbach's claims specifically, a Terminix spokeswoman says the Memphis office has an on-staff entomologist available, "as a resource to all technicians, and (he) speaks often with customers."
Why are ants aggravating?
No matter what you call them, ants are aggravating. "Because some ants change dietary habits frequently ," says John Klotz, entomologist at the University of California-Riverside, "it's hit or miss if you're using a bait" in trying to eliminate the little pests.
What to do if you have a bad taste for bug spray?
Got a bad taste for bug spray? Then ask your exterminator for a copy of the Material Safety Data Sheet and the chemical's label for your own records. Besides providing application instructions and noting EPA approval, the documents will list what side effects can occur if you're overexposed to the chemicals.
How many pest control companies are independently owned?
Sure, more than 75% of pest control companies are independently owned, but "there's been a consolidation trend going on in the industry," says Bob Rosenberg, director of government affairs for the National Pest Management Association.
When did Terminix have the service contract?
Spence disagreed, contending that because Terminix had had the service contract since 1987, shortly after the buildings were completed, any damage had to be "new" damage and the exterminator was responsible for paying for repairs.
What is tracking powder used for?
A rodenticide known as tracking powder is often used to control mouse problems in restaurants and other stores where food is sold. Shortly after running through the chalky substance, a mouse or rat is all but doomed.
