(Newswire.net — April 1, 2019) — Termites can wreak havoc on wooden furniture. One of the worst things is that noticing a termite infestation is not easy. Many people only find out they have an infestation when the damage is beyond repair. Here are a few tips on how to get rid of termites in furniture.
Types of Termites
There are two main types of termites: drywood and subterranean. The former is the most common as they live and consume wood within the home. Subterranean termites, on the other hand, like to build mounds outdoors and can access your home from underneath.
Seeking help from professional exterminators is always advisable, but if you’re dealing with a mild infestation, all you need are a few simple DIY tips.
How to Get Rid of Termites in Furniture
Make a Cardboard Trap
Cardboard is made of cellulose, which termites love to feed on and has a woody smell that termites find irresistible. Use water to moisten the cardboard and make the smell more pronounced then place the board near the infested area. Within a couple of hours, the termites will come to the board. You can then get rid of the cardboard or burn it.
Exposure to Sunlight
Termites love darkness and moisture. If you suspect a termite infestation, leave your wooden furniture in sunlight for about three days continuously. The heat will kill the termites and also help to prevent further infestation by getting rid of the moisture in the furniture.
Parasitic Nematodes
These are small worms that can kill termite larvae within two days. Get them from an online store or local nursery.
Oil Treatments
Neem oil and orange work well to get rid of termites. Orange contains a compound that can quickly kill termites. Neem oil, however, works after it’s been ingested by the termites. For the best results, pour these oils over the affected areas.
Use Boric Acid
Make a solution of water and borax powder and spray it on the affected area. This method is non-toxic and ensures the termites in the wood vanish after a few applications. For better results, consider combining this method with the cardboard trap.
Prevention
Ultimately, it’s always better to have a prevention plan. Here are a few tips on preventing a termite infestation:
- Purchase wood polish and hire a professional to apply it on all your wooden furniture
- Don’t exposure your furniture to moisture
- Aloe vera acts as a protective covering, so you can apply it to your furniture as a termite repellant
- Get rid of unwanted wooden furniture from your premises as they can worsen an infestation
- If you live in the coastal areas, hire professionals to treat your furniture occasionally
Bottom Line
Termites are a constant threat all year-round. They can cause an extensive amount of damage within a very short time. That’s why it’s important to have a solid pest control plan and know the signs of a possible termite infestation. With these few tips on how to get rid of termites in furniture, you should have no problems preventing and dealing with termite infestations.