Do it Yourself (DIY) termite treatment for your CA home

Treating your home for termites yourself in Southern California is possible but limited—especially with drywood and subterranean termites, the two most common types in the area. Here's a DIY guide with pros, cons, and when to call a pro.

🪲 Step-by-Step DIY Termite Treatment

🔍 1. Identify the Termite Type

• Drywood Termites: Found in attic beams, dry wood furniture; no soil contact. Small, dry pellets (frass) nearby. 

• Subterranean Termites: Live in soil; build mud tubes on foundations, crawlspaces, etc.

🧪 2. DIY Treatment Options

A. For Drywood Termites

• Boric Acid or Termite Foam (e.g., Spectracide Foam) POISONIOUS - Be careful
  • Drill small holes into infested wood and inject foam.
  • Re-plug holes with wood filler or sealant. Match & re-paint.
  • Orange Oil (e.g., XT-2000) – Only lasts 24-48 hours – you may need to re-apply often.
    • Natural alternative; works on contact but limited penetration.
  • Heat Treatment (Localized) – Training & equipment is needed
    • Apply targeted heat (120–130°F) using heat guns in isolated areas.

B. For Subterranean Termites

• Liquid Termiticides (e.g., Taurus SC or Termidor SC – Fipronil based)
  • Dig a trench around your home’s foundation and pour diluted termiticide.
  • Soak soil to create a chemical barrier.
  • Safety gear and correct mixing ratios are critical.
• Bait Stations (e.g., Spectracide Terminate or Trelona ATBS)
  • Install 10–20 feet apart around your home’s perimeter.
  • Monitor and replace as needed.

🛡️ 3. Prevention Tips

• Seal cracks and gaps around your foundation, attic, and siding.
• Reduce wood-to-soil contact (keep woodpiles and mulch away from foundation).
• Fix leaks (termites love moisture).
• Ensure proper ventilation in crawl spaces and attics.

⚠️ When DIY Isn't Enough call (866) 827-1727 for a free inspection & estimate

• If you find wood damage, active colonies, droppings or repeat infestations, call a licensed termite control company like Kilter Termite & Pest Control for a free termite inspection.
• Tentless treatments (e.g., localized injections like KilFoam or KilGuard, microwaves, or heat) are available from Kilter and allow you to stay in your home during & after treatment.
• Fumigations (e.g.,tent over your home) are only available through a licensed termite company. Call (866) 827-1727 for more information or to schedule a free inspection.

🧰 DIY Shopping List – for additional information or to schedule a free inspection contact us online.