If you notice signs of a termite infestation, it’s best to call a professional provider. This should be done before the problem escalates and the termites inflict expensive damage. Early inspections and preventative treatments at the first symptom can save you thousands in repairs. Termites are difficult to discover until they cause major damage.
Treatment for termites can cost anywhere from $229 to $960. Some homeowners may spend as much as $2,500 for a thorough job. The severity of the infestation and any resulting property damage will be the primary drivers of expense.
Termite Treatment Cost Factors
The professional treatment of termites can cost anywhere from $230 to $2,500. This range is heavily influenced by a number of different circumstances.
Here are some circumstances that must be taken into account:
- The extent of the infestation.
- The method of treatment employed.
- The type of termite involved.
- The cost of any necessary repairs.
- The cost for an inspection
- Any termite protection plans
Size of Termite Infestation
A larger infestation may lead to a higher price tag. Most tiny, localized infestations cost between $230 and $900 to treat. Whereas large, systemic infestations might cost $2,500 or more to eliminate. The costs of maintenance and care can be reduced with routine checks and attention.
Fumigation and other costly follow-up visits are commonplace after treating a severe termite infestation. Treating and monitoring a small, localized termite infestation is usually easier. It takes less time than dealing with a larger infestation spread across your property.
If you want to save money, call a pest control service. As soon as you notice signs of termites in your home, take action. Ignoring termites allows the infestation to spread throughout the house, driving up the expense of repair.
Type of Treatment
A do-it-yourself termite solution using bait and liquid termiticides can cost as little as $50. On the other hand, a professional termite tent can cost up to $2,500. A whole-house approach is necessary for larger infestations. This may involve additional chemical and bait treatments to ensure the pests don’t return.
Average Cost per Linear Foot
Liquid Chemical: $3 – $20
Baiting Systems: $8 – $12
Fumigation: $10 – $20
Heat extermination: $10 – $20
Termite Types
Subterranean species typically cost more. This is due to the fact that there is no foolproof method of killing them. For example, tenting isn’t always sufficient because the insects are burrowed beneath the surface. It’s conceivable that you’ll require subsequent examinations or treatments.
The three most common kinds of termites are:
- Subterranean Termites
- Drywood Termites
- Dampwood Termites
The cost of having a professional treat your property for termites will vary greatly. This depends on the species of termite that are causing the problem.
Subterranean termites are more likely to make a home for themselves in the dirt beneath your house. They are less likely to be found in the wooden support beams or joists of your home. The majority of subterranean termites don’t invade homes since they can’t survive in the inside environment. As a result, you may save a costly fumigation.
However, dampwood termites do make their homes in wood, which could necessitate a more expensive fumigation treatment.
Termite Damage Repair Costs
Finally, the effectiveness of the treatment can be affected by the availability of alternative food sources for the termites. Limiting all sources of food is crucial for long-term control. Overall, a thorough assessment of these factors is necessary to develop an effective termite control strategy.
Repairs for a variety of areas of a home may cost between $500 and $15,000, depending on the specific task. These tasks may include carpentry framing, attic insulation installation, crawl space repair, drywall repair, and termite treatment.
The cost of your termite treatment could range from $230 to $2,500. This depends on your specific case and the extent of treatment needed. The least expensive option is spot treatment with bait and chemicals, and the most expensive is to tent your home.
Professional termite exterminators will inspect the area to figure out the best course of action. When it comes to getting rid of termites, chemical sprays are typically the most cost effective solution.
However, it’s important to note that the cheapest termite treatment option may not always be the most effective. In extreme cases, a chemical treatment may not be enough to eradicate an entire termite colony.
Termite Bond
A termite protection plan (also known as a termite bond) ensures regular inspections if you sign up for it.
- Consider getting a termite bond if you:
- Live in an area prone to termites
- Have dealt with infestations before
- Or just want to be proactive.
A termite bond is an agreement between you and a pest management business that ensures timely inspections and treatments for termites.
The cost of a termite bond typically varies between $500 and $2000.
Termite Inspections
A typical termite inspection can cost anywhere from $82 to $260. Some pest control companies might cover the cost of the inspection if you hire them to treat the infestation.
Termite Damage Repairs
Orkin Pest Control estimates that it costs the average homeowner approximately $3,000 to repair any destruction caused by termites. Do not perform repairs until the infestation has been taken care of, as doing so will necessitate immediate repairs.
When it comes to termite control, there are several factors that can affect the treatment method and cost. One of the main considerations is the species of termite present, as different species have different behaviors and habits.
The type and condition of the wood being affected are important. Some types of wood are more resistant to termite damage than others. The magnitude of the infestation is an important factor in deciding the right treatment plan. How extensive the damage is also needs to be taken into account.
Treatment Type
Chemical Extermination Cost
Infestations that haven’t spread throughout the house are often dealt with using chemical extermination. This is performed by local pest control professionals and costs anywhere from $3 to $20 per linear foot. Pest control professionals frequently use a combination of termiticides and repellents to eliminate current infestations and prevent resurgence. Some examples of these chemicals are arsenic trioxide, bifenthrin, fipronil, imidacloprid, and permethrin.
Termiticides are used by a pest control company and applied to the soil around the perimeter of the building. The chemical insecticide is effective at killing the termites population and preventing new ones from establishing themselves.
Seeking a reliable chemical remedy? Expert advice: When dealing with termites, the most trusted brand name in the industry is undoubtedly Termidor. Only professionals can purchase Termidor.
Chemical extermination involves:
- Digging trenches or boring holes outside a house, sometimes right through to the basement
- Chemicals are poured into the trenches or holes.
- Continuing to apply treatments until no more termites are seen
Cost to Get Rid of Termites with Bait
Termite bait systems are used in conjunction with chemical applications or as a follow-up treatment. This will typically run between $8 and $12 per linear foot per application or visit.
The procedure entails having the exterminator set up bait stations at strategic locations around your property. A pest control exterminator will keep an eye on the bait stations. They will make sure the termites are eating as the colony dies off.
Expert Tip: Sentricon is widely regarded as one of the most effective bait treatments available today. Check with your local termite control service to determine whether they provide Sentricon and if the price is within your budget.
Termite bait involves:
- Making holes to place bait
- Setting up traps around the house
- Checking and keeping an eye on things on a regular basis
Termite Fumigation Cost
This kind of pest control is more drastic and should be used if there is widespread infestation throughout the entire dwelling. Tenting a property for fumigation runs between $1,200 and $2,500 (or $10 to $20 per linear foot).
So, the overall cost of fumigating a 2,000 square foot property will probably be between $2,000 and $8,000. This is the approach for you if you have a large infestation. This also works if you just want to make sure the colonies are gone for good. Drywood termites and dampwood termites respond as well to fumigation.
Termite fumigation involves:
- Injecting poison gas into the tent, a process that can take hours.
- A three- to five-day mandatory evacuation of all humans, animals, and vegetation from the premises
- Includes both attached and detached buildings, such as a patio, gazebo, or garage
Cost to Tent a House for Heat Extermination
The cost of heat treatment typically ranges from $800 to $2,500, or $10 to $20 per linear foot. This treatment has the added benefit of being a chemical-free, organic pest control. This may be used throughout the entire home or only in specific areas such as the kitchen, bathroom, basement, or attic. The whole process can take anywhere from eight hours to a full day.
It is recommended to remove any valuable things that may be heat sensitive from your house. This may be anything, such as paintings or antique furniture.
Heat extermination involves:
- Completely enclosing your house in a tent
- Injecting hot air to raise the temperature within to between 120 and 140 degrees Fahrenheit
- Keeping an eye on the temperature to make sure it stays over 120 degrees for at least 35 minutes.
- Putting the tent away
Termite Cost by Termite Type
Termite extermination costs vary less by species than by the size of the infestation. It is in everyone’s best interest to find out as much as possible about the kind of termites in their home. Additionally, the methods that have proven to be most successful in eliminating them.
Subterranean Termite
Subterranean termites can range in color from a creamy white to a dark brown. They get access to a house’s wooden structure via tunnels called mud tubes. When it comes to damage, these species can cause the most trouble. Because they prefer to reside underground, simple tenting isn’t always effective in getting rid of them.
The cost to treat a property for subterranean termites ranges from from $230 to $900 for targeted treatment. A complete house treatment can cost up to $2,500. Since they feed on wood, the most effective treatments involve placing poisons or baits. These will be placed in the soil surrounding the building or in the foundation.
Drywood Termite
Unlike subterranean and dampwood termites, drywood termites can survive with significantly less humidity. These insects don’t necessarily have to live in the soil. They can acquire all the moisture they need from the air. Additionally, they can also get moisture from the wood they eat.
In addition to not residing underground, drywood termites are slightly larger in size than their subterranean counterparts. They can be found in various areas of your home. These include the attic, framing, furniture, and pretty much anything else made of cellulose that is dry. You should obtain an inspection right away if you notice any abandoned wings or small pellet-like droppings.
You may find drywood termites in only one room, or they may have spread throughout your entire house. A lot of damage may be done by these termites to the wood they infest. The cost of fixing it can be relatively expensive. In the event of a severe infestation of drywood termites, the cost of fumigation could be rather significant.
The cost to eliminate drywood termites can range from $230 to $2,500. Professionals use drill holes in the wood to install bait traps and chemicals. Although, most large colonies require tenting, which may cost anywhere from $1,200 to $2,500.
Dampwood Termite
To thrive, dampwood termites need wood with a higher moisture content than is commonly found in a house’s frame. Hence, these pests rarely cause damage to residential structures. In wetter regions, they tend to colonize dead trees, fences, and any other exposed wood.
The best approach to stop them from entering your house is to keep deadfall and decaying lumber far away. This should be done from the base of the building.
In most cases, you may expect to pay anywhere from $230 and $2,500 to get rid of dampwood termites. You’ll utilize bait or chemicals for localized problems.
Dampwood termites, however, are commonly difficult to spot until significant damage has already been done because they seal off their entrances. Dampwood termites, in contrast to their subterranean cousins, do not construct visible mud tunnels. You should tent fumigate, heat, and fix any water leaks or humidity problems.
Additional Termite Treatment Costs
In order to avoid excessive expenditures on repair costs, it is essential to consider the costs of inspections and bonds. These costs should be taken into account when calculating the total cost of treatment. This will help to ensure that all relevant expenses are carefully considered. The final financial burden of the treatment should not be higher than expected.
Furthermore, it is beneficial to have an experienced professional inspect the entire system. This will help identify any potential issues that may require repair or replacement, thus avoiding any unnecessary expenses. Additionally, a bond can be purchased to cover any unexpected costs that may arise during the course of the treatment.
Include additional costs in the initial cost estimation. This will make it easier to manage the budget. It will also ensure that the treatment is completed within the allocated funds. Costs associated with termite inspections, bonds, and guarantees are typically offset by the money that is not lost to these pests.
Inspection Costs
A termite inspection can cost between $50 and $280, and it’s recommended that homeowners get one every year to three. A termite inspection is required in states known to have a high termite population, typically in the South.
Most businesses, like On Demand Pest Control, will provide property owners with a free initial termite examination. A thorough inspection of the exterior of the house, including the basement and the yard, is essential.
Experts look for pests and other problems in the following areas:
- Crawl space
- Basement
- Overhead timber
- Floors
- Windows
- Inside cabinets and closets
- Behind appliances
- Door frames
- Corners of the rooms
- Attic
Termite Bond Costs
Buying a termite bond will cost you between $700 and $1,000 (or $300 and $400 annually). The cost of the warranty you sign covers inspecting and eliminating termites from your property. Albeit the specific services provided to you may vary depending on your area and the terms of your contract.
Financially, they make sense in places prone to infestations because they prevent or greatly reduce the need for costly repairs. Additionally, they cost less than entirely tenting the home.
Traditional protection plans typically charge an annual premium that covers things like:
- In the event that termite activity is discovered, treatments can be scheduled throughout the year
- Installation of bait
- Initial inspection sites are reinspected annually.
Additional Prevention Costs
In order to keep termites at bay, preventative measures are essential. Some guidelines to keep in mind are as follows:
To fill in the cracks in your foundation, you can pay a local handyman for about $50 per hour. It’s also possible to do it yourself at no cost. This is useful not just for termites, but also for preventing rodents like mice from entering your home.
DIY removal of dead trees will cost you nothing, whereas a local landscaper will charge you $50 per hour. Remove any dead trees or piles of wood from the area around your house. This will help to reduce the risk of termites.
Protect your home against termites by using a termite repellant. These products range from $4 to $12 per linear foot. They can be used to help prevent future infestations with bait traps.
DIY vs. Hiring a Termite Control Company
Inspections, early identification, and treatment can save approximately $5 billion a year in repair costs due to termites. Employing a professional pest control service increases your confidence that the termite infestation will be diagnosed and eradicated. The cost of fixing a termite infestation increases the longer you leave it untreated. Although do-it-yourself solutions are available, they are not always successful and may even result in a another infestation.
Homeowners should contact multiple pest control services for inspections and price quotes before settling on one. The following information should be included in the written estimate:
- Treatment cost
- Problem type
- Extermination method
- Number of visits and frequency
- Chemicals to be used
- Precautions or warnings of any kind
- What kinds of guarantees are made, and for how long
While deciding between providers, it’s helpful to check reviews and ask potential candidates some questions.
- How long have you been operating?
- What is the level of expertise and education of your technicians?
- Is everyone who works with you bonded?
Cost of Termite Treatment by Location
All of the prices we list here for termite control are median figures for the entire country. Termite extermination costs can vary regionally.
Pest control companies may charge more for their services in locations with a strong demand for termite extermination. Although termites can be found anywhere in the United States, they are more prevalent in states with warm, humid climates. Examples of such states are North Carolina, Florida, and Texas.
Frequently Asked Questions
When do you know you have a termite infestation that needs to be treated?
Subterranean Termites
- These termites create mud tunnels that they use to scout out the wood they intend to infest. Termites use these tunnels to carry food to the colony while staying out of sight of predators. Subterranean termites may be the cause of muddy tunnels appearing near your home’s foundation.
- Damaged wood will oftentimes be filled with soil and excrement.
Drywood Termites
- The presence of dried feces pellets indicates an infestation of drywood termites. The pellets are discarded by the bugs.
- Drywood termites create holes called “kick holes” or “kick-out holes” in the infested wood. As a result, frass, or fecal pellets, will collect on the ground below a tiny hole in the wood.
Dampwood Termites
- It might be challenging to detect termite activity in damp wood. In contrast to subterranean termites and drywood termites, these insects neither build mud tunnels nor excrete their waste.
- Dampwood termites do not store their pellets in their colony. Instead they seal off any openings in the wood and keep the moisture within. Termite tunnels of dampwood termites often only have termite feces and no soil.
How long does treatment typically last?
A termite treatment typically lasts between one and two years. Before committing to a management strategy, homeowners should verify the efficacy of the initial application. As soon as baits are placed, they can begin working. Although, it may take several months before the colony is completely quiet.
How effective are DIY termite treatments?
Self-treatment for termites is possible, albeit with mixed results. Contact a termite extermination professional in your area to inspect for any signs of termite infestation. By doing so, you can ensure that they are effectively evicted.
If you’re going to try to accomplish it on your own, you need learn the proper procedure first. If you, your loved ones, or your pets are exposed to toxins, you could experience negative effects.
Is termite treatment covered by my insurance company?
Termite control is frequently not covered by homeowner’s insurance because policies are designed to cover abrupt, unforeseen events, not maintenance issues.
Do termites prevent a home from being sold?
It is possible to sell a home that has been damaged by termites. Doing so usually requires the homeowner to pay for everything. This includes an inspection, having the pests exterminated, and include a declaration about the condition of the home. The procedures that are in place actually change from one state to another.
What is pre-construction termite protection?
Constructing a new house or business? If you want to keep termites away from your new building, you should employ a pest control company.
In places where subterranean termites are prevalent, municipal and state building codes may mandate the use of termite control measures. These measures are usually applied to newly constructed buildings. Your new house, apartment building, business, or warehouse can be protected from termites. Before construction even begins, a termite barrier can be installed.
Conclusion
Infestations of termites are best handled by experts. Call a local pest control service if you find termite damage in your home. It is advisable not to postpone or delay.
To reduce the total cost of treatment and repairs, it is best to take action quickly. One such action is to get on top of a termite infestation as soon as possible.
Infestations of termites can cost anything from $275 to $863 to treat, with the average cost to households being $558. Costs range from as little as $135 for a modest treatment job to an average of $1,390 for a full extermination.
Keep in mind that the overall price tag will change depending on a number of elements. These elements include the type of termite, the magnitude of the infestation, and the treatment method chosen. The cost of fumigating a 2,000 square foot home can vary greatly. For instance, it may range from $2,000 to $8,000 if the home has an infestation of dampwood termites.
