We Researched 25 Popular DIY Termite Treatments— These 7 Are Best

Proper termite treatments are crucial for eliminating infestations. These elusive pests can quickly form colonies in a home before showing obvious signs, and since they feed primarily on wood and wood products, a colony can cause a lot of damage in a little bit of time. 

While a pest control professional is the best choice for identifying and treating large infestations, do-it-yourself treatments are also available. “When applied correctly, all termite treatment methods can be highly effective. The best approach depends on the specific type of termite present,” says Daniel Banting, vice president of Native Pest Management in West Palm Beach, Florida. 

After hours spent on research and conducting expert interviews, our top pick for do-it-yourselfers is the Safer Brand Insect Diatomaceous Earth Powder. We like that it can effectively eliminate termites and other crawling insects without the use of harsh chemicals. Depending on the severity and location of your infestation, another of our top picks may be better suited to your situation. Read ahead for a list of the best termite treatments on the market.

1. BEST OVERALL: Safer Brand Ant and Insect Diatomaceous Earth Powder
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2. RUNNER-UP: Bonide Systemic Granules Inspect Control
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3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Spectracide Terminate Termite & Carpenter Ant Killer
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4. BEST FOAM: BASF Termidor Foam Termiticide
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5. BEST BAIT: Spectracide Terminate Detection & Killing Stakes
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6. BEST WOOD TREATMENT: Nisus Bora-Care Termiticide, Insecticide & Fungicide
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7. BEST FOR SOIL: BioAdvanced Termite Killer Granules
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Before You Buy Termite Treatment 

Termite infestations can grow quickly, requiring a termite treatment to rid a home completely of these annoying pests. However, if the home has not yet been infested, people can take these steps to help prevent termites:

• Inspect the foundation each season for signs of termites. These insects create mud tubes to protect themselves from the sun. Mud tubes appear like lines of mud leading up the foundation and into the siding. Keep an eye out for termite droppings, which indicate an infestation. 
• Proper ventilation and sealing reduce the moisture buildup in a home that termites love. Ensure all windows, doors, and vents are properly sealed and schedule yearly maintenance for attic ventilation systems, if necessary.
• Keep wood piles away from the house and trim vegetation that is creeping too closely. Termites are drawn to these sources of food and can easily follow the trail to any wood details on the house and then the wood frame inside the walls.
• Use pressure-treated wood for all outdoor construction projects. Termites are rarely interested in wood that has been combined with chemicals.

If these termite prevention measures don’t keep these destructive insects away, it might be necessary to take steps with a DIY termite treatment or even consider calling in professional pest control services—though the termiticides pros use are far more powerful and could require people and pets to vacate the home temporarily.

Termite Treatment Comparison

Our Top Picks

We’ve gathered some of the best termite treatments for home use in specific categories. Check out these reliable pest control solutions below to find the best treatment for your home.

For those looking to end their termite problem without introducing harmful chemicals to the environment, diatomaceous earth is a solid option. This natural substance consists of the fossilized remains of microscopic aquatic organisms; it infiltrates the exoskeletons of termites, dehydrating them from the inside out and killing them within 48 hours. 

Diatomaceous earth is also an effective means of killing ants, bed bugs, cockroaches, fleas, and other insects. We like that this product is not harmful to humans or pets when used as directed, providing the ideal pest control solution for homes with animals and young children.

Get the Safer Brand termite treatment at Amazon, Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, or Walmart.  

An excellent option for use behind appliances, under furniture, or around the perimeter of a home, this affordable insecticide comes in a granular form that can be sprinkled around a problem area to create a barrier against invading insects. However, this is not the type of insecticide to use on fruits or vegetables, as it can have a toxic effect on humans if the plants are eaten, and it can also be toxic to pollinators like bees. 

When using this product on grass or other plants, the granules must be watered into the soil. The insecticide is then absorbed through the roots, protecting them for up to 8 weeks. This insecticide’s active ingredient, imidacloprid, kills gnats, mealybugs, aphids, whiteflies, and termites and also acts as a fungicide to help keep houseplants protected. 

Get the Bonide termite treatment at Amazon (1 pound), The Home Depot (4 pounds), or Walmart (4-pack).  

Termites and carpenter ants can do significant structural damage to a home by either eating or nesting in its wood framing. This ant and termite killer from Spectracide is designed to take out both types of insects on contact. It features a gun-shaped applicator with a high-pressure spray that can treat areas around the home’s foundation where carpenter ants and termites reside.

When applied to the foundation, this termite and carpenter ant killer stays present for up to 9 months and prevents future infestations. It’s also suitable for use around baseboards, closets, and outdoors around decks and wood fences. In addition to ants and termites, this formula eliminates spiders, roaches, fleas, and ticks. 

Get the Spectracide termite treatment at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, Tractor Supply Co., or Walmart. 

When treating for termites, DIYers can spray BASF Termidor foam termiticide behind baseboards, into termite holes, and other difficult-to-access areas of a home using the narrow spray hose. The foam takes only 5 seconds to expand, with 1 ounce quickly becoming 1 quart of foam. This expansion fills gaps and forces the foam deeper into the termite tracks. 

The nonrepellent formula is almost undetectable to termites, so they inadvertently make contact with it, ingest it, and share it in the nest. The active ingredient, fipronil, binds to a termite’s nerve endings, disrupting the central nervous system and killing them within 24 hours. BASF Termidor foam termiticide also works to treat carpenter ants, stink bugs, carpenter bees, and many other pests.

Get the BASF termite treatment at Amazon or Walmart. 

Spectracide Terminate Detection & Killing stakes are easy to install around the perimeter of a home using 10-foot spacing between stakes. The bait trap sinks into the ground where it is accessible to subterranean termites. Once the termites begin to take the bait, an indicator will be released on the top of the trap to show that the elimination of the nest has started. 

The bait traps use the active ingredient hexaflumuron to destroy the reproductive abilities and maturation cycle of pests. The downsides with this method are that it can take a few days to a few months to see any progress against termites and there is a need to monitor the bait regularly and replace the stakes at least once yearly to ensure ongoing protection.

Get the Spectracide termite treatment at Amazon, Ace Hardware,Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.

Mix the Bora-Care at a 1:1 dilution with water and grab a sprayer, brush, or roller to apply to new or existing wooden materials. The active ingredient in this natural termite killer, disodium octaborate tetrahydrate, is a borate compound that disrupts the enzyme production and digestive systems of the termite, ultimately causing death.

We like that this termite control treatment kills any existing infestation in the wood and provides effective protection against recurring infestations for decades. The wood treatment can kill all species of termites, wood-infesting beetles, carpenter ants, and decay fungi, and can be used on both interior and exterior structures.

Get the Nisus termite treatment at Amazon. 

BioAdvanced termite killer granules is a powdered substance that DIYers can sprinkle around their home’s perimeter. After applying the powder to the soil, water the powder so it can seep into the soil. The treatment acts within a month to kill existing nests and can protect a home for up to 6 months.

The active ingredient in this BioAdvanced termite killer, imidacloprid, works in a way similar to fipronil, killing insects by disrupting communication in their central nervous system, but it is less toxic to humans and pets. It is, however, toxic to bees and wasps. Unfortunately, due to the method of activation, this termite treatment can only be used outside, but it is an excellent option for perimeter defense in the yard.

Get the BioAdvanced termite treatment at Amazon, Lowe’s, Ace Hardware, Tractor Supply Co., or The Home Depot.

Or, DIY Your Own Termite Treatment

DIY termite treatments using household ingredients may not be as effective as professional treatments such as fumigation or commercial products. However, it is possible to make a DIY termite treatment using household ingredients. 

​​Dish soap and water can be an affordable and effective solution for treating termites. To make a termite treatment using dish soap and water, mix 1 tablespoon of dish soap with 1 gallon of warm water. Stir well and pour the solution into a spray bottle. Locate the area of termite activity and spray the solution directly onto the affected area. Repeat this process multiple times over the course of a few days. The dish soap prevents the termites from breathing, eventually killing them.

It’s important to note that this method is typically effective for minor termite infestations and may not be as effective for larger infestations. If there is a severe termite infestation, it’s best to consult with a professional pest control company for effective treatment options.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Chose the Best Termite Treatments

Killing current pests or preventing termite infestation can protect a home from disastrous consequences in the long run. When selecting products for this guide, we researched over 25 popular choices and picked the top options based upon ease of use, effectiveness, ingredients, and longevity. 

These picks are all proven to be effective at deterring termites and other pests with strong active ingredients like imidacloprid, fipronil, lambda-cyhalothrin, and hexaflumuron. Each ingredient is made to effectively kill termites, ants, roaches, fleas, or more common pests for all-around protection in a home or outdoor space. Plus, many of the above picks are meant to last for weeks or months after just one application. 

We selected products that are also easy to use as they can either be sprinkled, sprayed, or set up within minutes. Be advised that some of these treatments may require watering or monitoring to remain effective and some also may not be safe for vegetable gardens or homes with pets. 

What to Consider When Choosing Termite Treatments

When choosing a termite treatment, consider the location of the infestation, the safety of the product, and the type of treatment that will be most effective. Properly applied do-it-yourself treatments can result in successfully exterminating termites but for large infestations or signs of severe damage, it’s best to contact a termite control company.

Effectiveness

The effectiveness of a termite treatment can vary by termite species, location of the infestation, and proper application. According to Banting, “The most common termites homeowners will see are drywood termites and subterranean termites.” 

Subterranean termites are identifiable by their tendency to create mud tubes along walls and foundations, and their winged swarmers that most often come out during the day in the early spring and summer months. Drywood termites, on the other hand, don’t create mud tubes but instead live directly in dry wood. They typically swarm at night, though swarming habits can vary by species and region. They may also be identified by their fecal pellets, also known as frass, near infested sites. 

“For subterranean termites, bait stations containing an active bait material are among the most effective solutions, as they target the colony directly at its source,” says Banting. “Liquid or foam termiticides can be effective against both subterranean and drywood termites when applied by a trained professional.” He also states that foam termiticides are best for concealed cavities, such as wall voids, door frames, and window casings.

Safety Concerns

Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying a termite treatment at home, as termiticides can pose a safety risk when improperly used. Diatomaceous Earth is one of the safest termite treatments as it can dehydrate and kill termites and other crawling insects without posing a risk to people or pets when used as directed. Though they contain insecticides, bait stations are generally also a low-risk option, since the active ingredients are confined to a small area and people or pets don’t typically come into contact with them. Liquid and foam insecticides require careful application, and often the removal of people and pets from the area for a specified time, or until the insecticide dries. 

Cost 

The cost of do-it-yourself termite treatments ranges from $10 to several hundred dollars, depending on the size of the area that needs to be treated. The cost of professional pest control for termites typically ranges from $229 to $967, with a national average of $598.

Types of Termite Treatments 

Getting rid of termites can be as easy as setting traps or applying a termite spot treatment, or as involved as digging a trench around the home to set up a termiticide barrier. The four main types of termite treatments include liquid termiticides for termites​, termite baits, building materials with termiticides, and wood treatments.

Liquid-Soil Termiticides 

Liquid-soil termiticides are a long-lasting treatment that can keep a home safe from termites for up to 5 years on average, though some products claim a longer protection period. 

However, this treatment isn’t simple. It requires digging a trench around the home and applying the liquid termite treatment to it, making sure that there are no gaps in this chemical barrier before filling the trench. Termites can find gaps in the barrier and could enter, so it is suggested to have a yearly termite inspection just to be certain. 

An easier method of applying a liquid-soil treatment is with a sprayer. Spraying for termites doesn’t last as long when applied without a trench, but the concentrated spray termiticide is easy for most DIYers to use. It forms a chemical barrier in the soil surrounding the home.

Termite Baits 

Fighting a termite infestation with termite baits requires strategically placing bait stations around the home for the termites to find. A bait includes powerful active ingredients, like hexaflumuron, that kill the termites slowly. Foraging termites will take the readily available bait back to their nest, infecting the other termites in the colony.

This method is effective for destroying an infestation but could take a month or more before acting on the termites. Termite baits also need regular monitoring and maintenance to ensure that the bait stations still have bait.

Termiticide Building Materials

A great way to prevent termite infestations in new construction is to treat the building materials with termiticides before beginning construction. Lumber can be treated with a spray or a brushed-on concentrated solution. An alternative is to apply termiticides anywhere the new structure touches the ground to pretreat the soil. 

Using building materials that are repellent to termites, like pressure-treated wood for building a deck, is helpful for preventing termites. Or choose naturally resistant materials like metal, concrete, or some types of wood.

Wood Treatments 

Instead of treating the soil or setting up bait stations, wood treatments include surface sprays and treatments as well as injected sprays and foams. These treatment options kill existing termite infestations and soak into the wood to prevent future pest problems. Pretreated termite-resistant construction materials use a similar product to coat lumber that will be used to build a home. 

However, applying wood treatments often requires direct access to the wood so that treatments can soak into the fibers. This is why sprays are best for new construction as it is easier to apply the wood treatment directly to the material’s surface. Injection foams are best for pre-existing structures where they go into cracks and crevices to properly soak into unpainted edges of the painted wood.

FAQs 

There’s a lot to think about when shopping for the best termite treatment for a home, and you may have some lingering questions. Check out the answers to these frequently asked questions about termite treatments.

Q. When should you worry about termites?

Common signs of termites include discolored or drooping drywall, peeling paint, hollow-sounding wood, pinpoint holes in drywall, excessively squeaky floorboards, crumbling wood, and loosening floor tiles from the extra moisture termites add to a floor. If you spot any termite damage or signs of these pests, it’s time for treatment.

Q. Can a termite treatment make you sick?

Yes. All pesticides should be handled with care and termiticides are no exception. Users must apply these chemicals properly to avoid ingestion or absorption into the body.

Q. When are termites most active?

Termites are most active between March and November but can remain active all year in warmer climates.

Q. How many years does a termite treatment last? 

Termite treatments can last for a month or up to 5 years, depending on the type of treatment you choose. Some treatments claim to last longer, while others require monthly monitoring.

Q. How long does it take to get rid of termites?

It can take from a few weeks to several months to completely eradicate a termite infestation, depending on the treatment method used.

Q. How often do you have to treat a house for termites?

The reapplication rate of termiticides varies. Some treatments, like liquid insecticides, may last for years. If you’ve previously dealt with termites or live in a high-risk area, an annual termite inspection performed by a professional can pinpoint any new activity and ensure you have a treatment plan in place.

Q. Should I treat termites myself?

While many effective do-it-yourself termite treatments are available, the decision to tackle this job depends upon the severity of the infestation and your ability to identify and treat problem areas.

Why Trust Bob Vila 

Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.

Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.

 

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