Are you getting sleepless nights due to destructive termites? Are you just making up your mind to contact the pest control professionals? While it is the most logical step to take in such a situation, it would be better if you have an idea of the cost involved.
Termites are beyond doubt one of the most destructive pests. Though they are small in size, they can be a disaster for the furniture and the house. Subterranean termites and wood inhabiting termites are the two general types. Be it rugs or carpets, appliances, furniture, and wall/ceilings, termites can remain hidden at all possible places one can imagine in a house. A recent report stated that the average loss from termites in residences in the United States is a whooping $5 billion!
Cost Involved
Practically, the exact cost of this treatment method can never be calculated. However, there are certain aspects that can give us a rough estimate on the cost.
Dimensions of the Building
The first and foremost thing you need to consider is the size of your building. For the measurement purpose, you can calculate the cost based on the linear feet (Ln. Ft.) method. In the linear feet method, the total distance around the perimeter of your home or building is measured. If you have garages and other small areas or rooms in the backyard (may be an outbuilding), you can also add them in the perimeter of your building.
Leaving out any place in the vicinity of your home will only increase the probability of re-infestation. The average price per linear feet is usually between $4 to $8. If your house has a linear feet dimension of about 3,000 Ln. ft., then the cost will be 3,000 Ln. ft. X $5 per Ln. Ft. = $15,000. This is how the calculation process works. Also, the experts would wish to know if you have a single room/multiple dwelling, or is it a commercial building that needs to be treated.
Methods of Termite Extermination
Termite extermination can be achieved through a variety of options, such as chemicals (repellents and non-repellents), bait, electricity, heat and microwave methods, and fumigating with deadly gases. The prices vary for each type of treatment, depending on the amount used, duration of the treatment, and other factors.
| Type of Treatment | Area of the Building | Estimated Cost |
| Bait Extermination Process | 150 linear feet/1250 square feet | $1,500 |
| Chemical Extermination | 150 linear feet/1250 square feet | $1,350-$2,500 |
| Fumigation | 150 linear feet/1250 square feet | $1,200-$2,500 |
| Heat Extermination | 150 linear feet/1250 square feet | $1,250 |
| Electron Gun/Microwave usage | 150 linear feet/1250 square feet | $1,150 |
The cost incurred using any of these treatments may vary due to other factors. For instance, in the heat termination and fumigation process, the building or place to be treated must be shielded with tents and coverings, so that the lethal gases don’t affect others. The chemicals that are used may be repellents and non-repellents. The pest control company will guide you in the process of selecting a suitable repellent for the treatment.
Spotting the Areas
Even though you may try to eliminate the termites from the entire building, yet, there may be some areas where one can easily observe termite movements and activities. These are the most polarized and sensitive areas that need to be dealt with utmost care. It may be outside the building (a breather for you!) or inside the building. The professionals need to check out the square feet dimensions of the ceramic tiles in your rooms, and also check to see if there are heat vents in the house.
Tips for Effective Treatment
There are certain points that must be considered before opting for termite treatment or pest control.
- Look out for authentic pest control expert teams. The National Pest Management Association and the Termite Institute each offers on-line locator to find an exterminator. Make use of them and avail the termite treatment from registered pesticide companies.
- Always ask for the guarantees and benefits the company can offer you if you avail their treatments.
- Contact your friends and zero in on the most trusted pest control company.