Unfortunately, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question, “How long does it take to get rid of termites?” It depends on several factors. These include, but are not limited to: the species of termite, the size of the colony, and the eradication method. In other words, situations will differ from place to place, with the overall set of circumstances dictating how best to eliminate the infestation from a home, business, or other type of property.
However, this doesn’t mean there aren’t some general timelines. Like with anything so nuanced, there are some rules of thumb you can go by. But first, it’s important to know what species you’re dealing with and that’s where you’ll need to begin in order to get a realistic idea of how long it takes to get rid of termites once they’re discovered in your home or other property.
The Most Prevalent Termite Species in Phoenix
The most prevalent species of termites in the Phoenix area are subterranean termites, specifically the desert subterranean termite (Heterotermes aureus) and the western subterranean termite (Reticulitermes hesperus). These two species differ in their appearance, behavior, and the type of damage they cause.
Desert subterranean termites or Heterotermes aureus have a pale yellow-brown color and are about 1/4 to 3/8 inches long. They have a relatively large head compared to other termite species.
The desert subterranean termite prefers to feed on live and dead grasses, forbs, and livestock manure and is known to forage in areas with little to no moisture. They build mud tubes to reach their food sources and protect themselves from the dry environment. Unfortunately, this means this species can remove soil surface litter during prolonged droughts, which makes it harder for soil to absorb rainfall. But, it also means they can be a big threat to residential homes, too.
Meanwhile, western subterranean termites or Reticulitermes hesperus have a creamy white color and are about 1/4 to 3/8 inches long. They have a smaller head compared to the desert subterranean termite. This particular species prefers to live in moist environments and is commonly found in soil. They also build mud tubes to reach their food sources and protect themselves from the dry environment.
Western subterranean termites can cause extensive damage to structures by consuming wood and other cellulose materials. They can also cause damage to non-wood materials like foam insulation boards, plaster, and even wallpaper.
So, both the desert and the western subterranean termite are prevalent in Phoenix, Arizona. Although, they do differ in their appearance, preferred environment, and the type of damage they can cause.
Means of Infiltration: How Termites Get into Homes
Both desert subterranean termites and western subterranean termites can enter residential homes in several ways. These termites are small and can infiltrate cracks in concrete and masonry, which prove too miniscule for other termite species to use.
They can also enter homes through expansion joints, foundation cracks, and utility conduits. Additionally, they can build mud tubes that protect the foraging workers as they search for food. These tubes can be found along the foundation walls, floor joists, and other structural elements of a home.
How Long It Can Take to Get Rid of Desert Subterranean Termites
The time it takes to get rid of desert subterranean termites varies depending on the severity of the infestation and the method used for control. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months to completely eliminate the infestation.
For severe situations, it may be necessary to use a combination of methods, such as liquid termiticides, baits, and physical barriers. In such cases, it may take several months to completely eradicate the termites.
It is important to note that even after the termites have been eliminated, it is a good idea to continue monitoring the property for any signs of re-infestation. This can help prevent future problems with desert subterranean termites.
Here is some even better news – unlike their subterranean cousins that target wood for food, desert subterranean termites primarily feed on dead plants, decaying organic matter, and even live desert vegetation. They may build mud tubes and enter your property, but their primary interest isn’t always your structural wood.
While desert subterranean termites are not usually a direct threat to your home’s structure, addressing them can provide peace of mind. The treatment timeline depends on the specific situation, but it’s generally a less urgent process compared to dealing with traditional wood-eating subterranean termites. If you’re unsure, consulting a pest control professional is the best course of action for a proper evaluation and recommended plan.
How Long It Can Take to Get Rid of Western Subterranean Termites
Eradicating western subterranean termites can take anywhere from weeks to several months, depending on the severity of the infestation and the treatment method used. Here’s a breakdown of the factors that can influence the treatment timeline:
- Severity of infestation. A small, localized infestation can be dealt with quicker than a large, established colony.
- Treatment method. Liquid termite treatments typically take a few weeks to work, while bait stations might take several months to eliminate the entire colony.
- Re-treatment needs. Follow-up inspections and potential re-treatments might be necessary depending on the treatment method and the effectiveness of the initial application.
Here’s a general time-frame for different scenarios:
- Small, localized infestation. With a quick response and professional treatment, eliminating a small infestation could take 2-4 weeks.
- Moderate infestation. A more established infestation might require 4-8 weeks of treatment, with potential follow-up inspections.
- Severe infestation. Extensive infestations can take several months to eradicate completely, involving multiple treatments and close monitoring by a pest control professional.
Here are some additional points to consider:
- Monitoring. Even after the initial treatment, it’s crucial to maintain a termite monitoring plan to detect any future activity.
- Preventative measures. Once the infestation is eradicated, implement preventative measures like sealing cracks and foundation entry points to discourage future infestations.
- Professional help is key. While DIY solutions might exist, it’s highly advisable to seek help from a licensed pest control professional for effective termite treatment. They can assess the situation, recommend the most suitable treatment plan, and ensure a thorough eradication.
Remember, early detection is key. If you suspect a termite infestation of any kind at all, don’t hesitate to contact a pest control professional to minimize damage and expedite the treatment process.
Discovering a termite infestation of any species can be alarming, but with the right pest control team on your side, you can take swift action to eradicate these destructive pests from your home. At Invader Pest Management, we specialize in comprehensive termite treatments that are fast, effective, and tailored to your specific needs.
Don’t let termites wreak havoc on your property any longer – contact us today to schedule a professional termite inspection and treatment plan. With our expertise and dedication to customer satisfaction, we’ll have your home termite-free in no time. Don’t delay – call Invader Pest Management now!