- LAST UPDATED: August 25, 2024
Sprays can effectively control termites, but it’s important to understand their limitations and follow safety precautions. They can kill termites upon direct contact, but reinfestation is possible, and underlying causes must be addressed for long-term control.
Over-the-counter chemical and DIY termite sprays like borate-based solutions, orange oil, and saltwater solutions may offer temporary relief. However, professional pest control is recommended for severe infestations since they use specialized termiticides. Prioritize safety, follow instructions carefully, and consider professional assistance when needed.
Read on to learn all that you need to know about using termite sprays, along with product recommendations and DIY options.
- KILLS TERMITES AND CARPENTER ANTS: Indoor plus home foundation treatment against termites, carpenter ants, carpenter bees and other insects as listed.
- FOR INDOOR AND OUTDOOR USE: Up to 9 months control indoors
- KILLS CARPENTER BEES: Kills wood-destroying insects on contact.
- CLEAR FORMULA: Non-staining spray leaves no odor.
- ACCUSHOT SPRAYER: Continuous power sprayer for precise application.
- United Industries #53370 16OZ Termite Kill Foam
- UNITED INDUSTRIES CORP
What To Know About Using Termite Sprays
Sprays can be used as a control method for termites, but there are limitations to consider.
- Direct Contact: Targeted termite sprays can kill individual termites on contact if potent.
- Reinfestation: In some cases, termites may come back after spraying. Termites can re-establish colonies or find alternative entry points after treatment.
- Underlying Causes: Spraying alone does not address the underlying causes of termite infestations. Issues such as excessive moisture, wood-to-soil contact, wood decay, cracks and openings, and vegetation and debris must be addressed to prevent infestations from reoccurring.
- Comprehensive Approach: Spraying alone may not eliminate an entire termite colony. Sprays may not reach hidden colonies and the termite queen. Baits and fumigation may be necessary to reach hidden areas. Addressing the root cause and implementing comprehensive measures is crucial for long-term termite control.
- Ineffective Sprays: Over-the-counter and DIY sprays may not effectively eliminate the entire termite colony or reach hidden infestations. Professional pest control services use a combination of treatment methods for effective results. These services may be needed if the homeowner cannot manage the infestation.
Safety Issues With Termite Sprays
- Inhalation: Sprays can release harmful fumes, so proper ventilation is essential. Avoid breathing in the spray or being in the treated area for an extended period.
- Skin Contact: Some sprays contain chemicals or components that irritate or burn the skin. Wear protective clothing and gloves when handling or applying sprays.
- Eye Irritation: Accidental contact with the eyes can cause irritation or damage. Use protective eyewear to prevent the spray from getting into the eyes.
- Environmental Impact: Some sprays may harm non-target organisms or may be toxic to the environment. Follow instructions carefully and avoid excessive use or contamination of water sources.
- Health Risks: Prolonged exposure to certain chemicals in sprays can have adverse health effects. Read and follow the product’s safety instructions and consult a professional for safe and effective termite control.
Note: While many DIY options may be less toxic, knowing any related safety issues is important, including using precautions around children and pets.
How To Use Termite Sprays(3 Methods)
1. Over-The-Counter Commercial Sprays
Liquid termiticides are chemical solutions specifically designed to kill and control termites. They are typically applied to the soil around the perimeter of a structure or directly onto infested wood to create a barrier that termites cannot penetrate. Liquid termiticides can be classified into different types, including repellent and non-repellent termiticides.
Repellent termiticides repel termites away from treated areas. In contrast, non-repellent termiticides are undetectable to termites, allowing them to transfer the chemical back to the colony, effectively eliminating the entire population.
The following are examples of over-the-counter commercial sprays.
1. BioAdvanced Carpenter Ant, Termite, and Insects Killer Plus
- 40 ounces
- Concentrate
- Active ingredient: β-Cyfluthrin (2.5%)
- Contact kills 60+ listed pests, including ants, termites, fleas, ticks, spiders, flies, and more
- Suitable for broad-spectrum outdoor use on lawns, landscapes, foundations, decks, and home structures
- Can also be used indoors in various areas such as storage areas, baseboards, doors, windows, shelves, etc.
- Restrictions: Not for sale in MA & NY
How The Active Ingredient Kills Termites
This product has β-Cyfluthrin, an insecticide that belongs to the pyrethroid class of chemicals. When used to control termites, β-Cyfluthrin targets the insects’ nervous system. It disrupts the normal functioning of their nerve cells, leading to paralysis and eventual death.
The chemical provides both contact and residual control, meaning it kills termites upon direct contact and leaves a residual effect that continues to eliminate them over time. β-Cyfluthrin is effective against various pests, including termites, and is commonly used in professional-grade termite control products.
How To Use
To use this concentrate, dilute the product according to the instructions on the label. Fill a garden sprayer with the mixture and apply it directly to areas where pests are present, both indoors and outdoors. Thoroughly spray targeted areas, including cracks, crevices, and entry points. Repeat the application as needed and follow safety precautions, such as wearing protective clothing and keeping children and pets away from treated areas until dry. Store the product properly and dispose of containers according to local regulations.
2. TERRO T1901-6 Indoor and Outdoor Termite Aerosole Spray
- 16 ounces
- Aerosol spray
- Active ingredient: Deltamethrin (0.03%)
- Effectively kills carpenter ants, carpenter bees, termites, wood wasps, beetles, and borers.
- Kills on contact
- Long-lasting residual control for up to one month.
- Two-way spray nozzle for broad application or precise treatment
- Non-staining & odorless formula
- Indoor & outdoor use for around windows, doors, entry points, wall voids, and infested wood areas.
- Not recommended as the sole protection against termites.
How The Active Ingredient Kills Termites
Deltamethrin is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide commonly used to kill termites. It works by interfering with the nervous system of termites, causing paralysis and ultimately leading to their death.
This chemical has broad-spectrum activity, meaning it can target various pests, including termites, ants, mosquitoes, and other insects. It is typically applied as a barrier treatment around structures, creating a protective zone that termites cannot penetrate. Deltamethrin provides residual control, meaning it continues to be effective for an extended period, providing ongoing protection against termites and other pests.
How To Use
To use this product, shake the bottle well and point the nozzle toward the target area. Spray the product directly onto surfaces where pests are present, both indoors and outdoors. Ensure thorough coverage and reapply as needed. Keep people and pets away from the treated areas until the product has dried. Take safety precautions, follow instructions on the label, and seek professional inspection for active termite infestations.
2. DIY Sprays
While professional chemical termite control is often recommended for long-term, effective results, some DIY sprays are available for homeowners. These sprays can be a temporary solution for small infestations.
Remember that DIY sprays may not provide comprehensive termite control and may have limitations. Continue to use caution when applying sprays around children and pets.
The following are some common DIY sprays used against termites.
Borate-Based Sprays
Borate solutions can be sprayed directly onto wood surfaces to create a protective barrier against termites. Borates are low-toxicity chemicals that disrupt the termites’ digestive system.
What To Do:
Purchase borate powder labeled for termite treatment from a hardware store or online. In a clean container, mix the borate powder with warm water according to the instructions. Stir until fully dissolved.
Pour the solution into a spray bottle. Identify termite-prone areas and spray the borate solution directly onto wooden structures or vulnerable materials. Ensure thorough coverage, especially in areas with visible termite activity. Reapply as needed or as recommended by the manufacturer for ongoing protection. Borate treatments are generally longer lasting but may require periodic maintenance.
Safety precautions:
When working with borate-based sprays, follow all safety precautions indicated on the product label. Wear protective gloves and eyewear, and avoid inhalation or contact with skin. Keep the spray out of reach of children and pets.
Orange Oil
Orange oil contains an active ingredient called d-limonene, which has insecticidal properties. It can be applied directly to termite-infested areas to kill termites on contact. Orange oil spray works best for spot treatments.
What To Do:
Purchase pure orange oil labeled for termite treatment. Mix 1.5 ounces of orange oil in a clean container with one gallon of water. Pour the solution into a garden sprayer or spray bottle.
Identify termite-infested areas and spray the solution directly onto affected surfaces, ensuring complete coverage. Reapply every few days or as needed until termite activity decreases. Monitor the treated areas for any signs of ongoing infestation.
Safety precautions:
When working with orange oil, follow the safety guidelines provided on the product label. Wear protective gloves and eyewear to prevent skin and eye irritation. Keep the spray out of reach of children and pets.
Vinegar
Vinegar is a readily available household ingredient that can be used as a DIY termite spray. While vinegar can be effective against certain household pests, it is not considered reliable for killing termites. Termites’ specific biological characteristics and behaviors make them more resilient to vinegar sprays. However, it may have some repelling properties and can be sprayed directly onto termite-infested areas.
What To Do:
Mix equal parts of distilled white vinegar and water in a spray bottle to make a vinegar spray to repel termites. Add a few drops of dish soap and shake well to combine.
Identify areas where termites are present or likely to appear and spray the solution directly onto those areas. Reapply as needed, especially after rainfall.
Neem Oil
Neem oil is an organic insecticide extracted from neem tree seeds. It has traditionally been used for pest control and can be diluted with water and sprayed onto termite-affected areas. This oil is also a deterrent and disrupts termites’ growth and reproductive cycles.
What To Do:
To use neem oil against termites, dilute the neem oil according to the instructions on the product label. Fill a spray bottle with the diluted neem oil solution.
Identify areas where termites are active or susceptible to infestation, such as damaged wood or termite mud tubes. Spray the neem oil solution directly onto these areas, ensuring thorough coverage. Repeat the application as needed, especially after rain or when termite activity persists.
Essential Oils
Certain essential oils such as clove, orange, tea tree, and cedarwood are believed to have insecticidal properties. They can be diluted with water and sprayed onto termite-infested areas as a natural alternative to chemical sprays.
What To Do:
To make an essential oil spray against termites, mix 10 to 15 drops of essential oils of your choice with water in a spray bottle. Shake well to ensure they are thoroughly blended.
Identify areas where termites are active and spray the essential oil mixture directly onto these areas, covering them adequately. Repeat the application as necessary to maintain protection.
Saltwater Solution
A saltwater solution can be made by dissolving salt in water and then spraying it directly onto termite-infested areas. The high salt concentration can dehydrate and kill the termites.
What To Do:
To make a saltwater solution spray against termites, dissolve salt in water to create a concentrated solution. Mix approximately one cup of salt with one gallon of warm water in a container, stirring until the salt is completely dissolved.
Transfer the saltwater solution to a spray bottle with a nozzle suitable for spraying. Identify areas where termites are active or suspected, such as wooden structures or areas with visible signs of infestation. Spray the saltwater solution directly onto these areas, ensuring thorough coverage. Repeat the application as needed to address termite activity.
3. Professional Pest Control
Severe termite infestations usually require comprehensive inspection, identification, and targeted treatment by experienced pest control professionals.
When it comes to termites, licensed professional pest control companies typically use specialized termiticides designed to target and eliminate termite colonies effectively. These termiticides often contain active ingredients such as fipronil, imidacloprid, hexaflumuron, bifenthrin, or chlorfenapyr.
These chemicals work through different mechanisms of action, targeting the nervous system, chitin synthesis (growth and development), or energy production of termites.
The following briefly explains what each chemical does:
- Fipronil: Fipronil is a broad-spectrum insecticide that affects the central nervous system of termites. It disrupts the normal function of nerve cells, leading to paralysis and eventual death of the termites.
- Imidacloprid: Imidacloprid is a neonicotinoid insecticide targeting termites’ nervous system. Disrupting the transmission of nerve impulses induces paralysis and eventual termite death.
- Hexaflumuron: Hexaflumuron is a chitin synthesis inhibitor. It disrupts the formation of chitin, a key component of the termite’s exoskeleton, leading to improper growth and development. This ultimately causes the death of termites.
- Bifenthrin: Bifenthrin is a synthetic pyrethroid insecticide that affects the nervous system of termites. It disrupts the normal functioning of nerve cells, causing paralysis and eventual death of the termites.
- Chlorfenapyr: Chlorfenapyr is a non-repellent insecticide that interferes with the energy production of termites. Once ingested or absorbed by termites, it is converted into a highly toxic substance that disrupts their cellular respiration, leading to their death.
It is advisable to consult a licensed pest control professional who can recommend and apply the most suitable termiticide based on the specific termite species and the extent of the infestation.
Conclusion
While termite sprays can effectively control termites, it is important to be aware of their limitations. They can kill termites on contact, but may not address underlying causes or eliminate entire colonies. Consider over-the-counter and DIY termite sprays as temporary solutions and prioritize comprehensive termite control measures for long-term effectiveness.
Safety precautions should be followed when using termite sprays, as they may release harmful fumes or contain skin-irritating chemicals. For severe infestations, it is advisable to seek professional pest control services.
