“The Greatest City in America,” Baltimore is known for its rich history, culture, and delicious crab cakes. It really is Charm City. But you know what isn’t charming? Termites. If you think your home has fallen prey to these wood-munching pests, read on to learn how to get rid of termites in Baltimore.
Termite Treatment Options in Baltimore
Getting rid of termites in Maryland can be challenging, and DIY treatments are not as effective as professional pest control.
Here are the most effective termite treatment options for getting rid of termites in Baltimore:
Chemical Barriers
Liquid termiticides, such as fipronil, can be applied to the soil around the foundation as a barrier against termites.
Chemical barriers can be applied before the concrete foundation is poured or around the perimeter of an already-constructed home. The treatment can also be applied by drilling into the foundation.
Termites will avoid entering the treated soil, and the ones that do will die since fipronil attacks termites’ central nervous systems when they come into contact with it.
Most liquid termiticides last a minimum of five years before needing to be replenished by a termite control professional.
Bait Stations
Termite bait stations are a relatively eco-friendly method of eliminating subterranean termites. They are strategically placed around the perimeter of the home.
Bait stations contain cellulose and slow-acting insecticides that suppress the termite’s ability to regrow its exoskeleton. Worker termites will eat the bait and carry it back to the colony. The nymphs and workers who try to molt will die. This process poisons the colony and also leaves the colony without workers to bring them food.
Termite bait stations are available in-ground or above-ground to attract termites in the soil or ones already inside the home. If maintained and refilled regularly, bait stations can provide year-round termite protection.
Heat Treatments
Heat treatments are a good option for those who prefer a chemical-free approach. Using specialized equipment, a technician will introduce clean, dry heat that gradually increases the temperature of the wood inside until it reaches at least 120 degrees. This temperature is maintained for a minimum of 33 minutes so that the termites are eliminated.
This method can damage objects in your home that are susceptible to extreme heat. To avoid this, follow your pest control company’s instructions carefully and remove your pets, plants, and other susceptible items from the house before the procedure.
Heat treatments are most often used for drywood termites. This method will not treat subterranean termites at their source since they live underground, but it will take out any termites that are currently in your home. It just will not eradicate the colony.
Signs of Termites in Baltimore
Here are the signs of termites to look for if you suspect termite activity in your home:
- Bubbling or peeling paint
- Buckling, warped, or sagging floors (Check out our article on the topic: Termite Damage in Wood Floors)
- Discarded wings near doors and windowsills
- Discoloration in the floors and ceilings
- Hollow-sounding wood
- Mud tubes along the walls and foundation
- Piles of termite droppings (frass) that resemble piles of sawdust
- Small exit holes in the drywall
If you notice these signs, you should schedule a termite inspection with a local termite control company.
Types of Termites in Baltimore
There is one type of termite native to Maryland that can be found in the Baltimore area:
Subterranean termites: The most common termites in Baltimore are eastern subterranean termites. They are small but destructive, nesting in large colonies underground where the environment is moist. The termites travel from the nest to their food source using mud tubes.
Another type of subterranean termite that lives in Baltimore is the dark southeastern subterranean termite (Reticulitermes virginicus Banks). This type is widespread from Maryland to Florida and westward through eastern Texas.
How to Prevent Termites in Baltimore
Preventing termites from being attracted to your property is the most cost-effective way to protect your Baltimore home from costly damages. Here are some of the best termite prevention tips:
- Properly maintain your gutters and downspouts to prevent standing water from accumulating.
- Repair faulty pipes and plumbing leaks.
- Check that your crawl spaces and attic have enough ventilation to avoid excess moisture.
- Don’t overwater your lawn.
- Schedule an annual termite inspection.
- Clear your property of dead trees, wood scraps, logs, and branches.
- Store firewood, cardboard, and newspaper at least 20 feet from your home.
- Seal gaps or cracks in your foundation, doors, and windowsills with caulk.
How Much Does Termite Treatment Cost in Baltimore?
The national cost for termite treatment averages from $275 to $863 depending on the severity of the infestation, with most homeowners paying $558.
In Baltimore, homeowners can expect to pay between $190 and $544 on average.
FAQ About Termites in Baltimore
How Common Are Termites in Baltimore?
Termites in Baltimore are very common. Baltimore has made it onto Orkin’s Top 50 Worst Termite Cities list several years in a row. Eastern subterranean termites (R. flavipes) are a nuisance in over half of the U.S. and are the predominant species in Baltimore.
When Do Termites Swarm in Baltimore?
Eastern subterranean termites swarm during the warmer months of spring and summer. You can expect to see termite swarmers from March to May.
Will Insurance Cover Termites in Baltimore?
No, termite damage is not covered by insurance. Insurance companies consider termites to be the fault of the homeowner, which means you will have to pay out of pocket for termite damage repair costs and termite treatment.
Hire a Pro
If local termites are infesting your home in Charm City, let Pest Gnome connect you with a local termite control pro today for termite or other pest issues.
Main Image Credit: Erudint / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 4.0
