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Termites are sneaky. One minute your patio looks fine; the next, you’re staring at hollow-sounding wood and wondering how long that support beam’s been eating away at your peace of mind. If you live in Maricopa County, Arizona, you know the heat and seasonal storms change everything—termites included. This piece explains, in plain language, the common Treatment methods and what to expect so you can make a smart call for your home (and sleep a little easier).

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What you’re really up against

Termites in Arizona are mainly two flavors: Subterranean and Drywood. Subterranean termites live in the soil and build mud tubes up into your structure. Drywood termites live right in the wood—no soil required. They leave tiny holes and frass (that sawdust-like droppings). Sounds gross? It is. But that’s helpful, because signs let you catch an infestation early.

Here’s the thing: termite damage is often slow but relentless. You might not see it for years. You’ll notice sagging floors, soft window sills, or those hollow sounds when you knock on baseboards. You might also smell a musty, slightly sweet odor if a colony’s been nesting in your rafters. So don’t shrug it off.

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Chemical barriers — the “invisible moat” around your house

Chemical barriers are the classic defense. Technicians trench around the foundation and mix a termiticide into the soil, creating a treated barrier. Two big names you might hear about are Termidor (fipronil-based) and older imidacloprid products. These are powerful and can stop termites from getting in—or eliminate those that cross the treated zone.

People worry chemicals sound scary. You know what? When applied properly by a licensed company, they’re targeted and safer than random sprays from the hardware store. Still, there are trade-offs: treatments require digging, can be costly depending on the layout, and may need re-application in certain soil types. In short: effective, controlled, but best handled by pros.

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Bait systems — patience with a plan

Baiting systems like Sentricon work differently. Instead of a barrier, you put bait stations around the yard. Termites find the bait, share it, and it spreads to the colony. It’s slower. It’s surgical. It can wipe out colonies without trenching.

Pros: low visual impact, targeted, and often pet- and people-friendly when installed correctly. Cons: it can take months to see results and you’ll need ongoing monitoring. Sentricon has a strong track record here in Arizona, especially when combined with good inspection routines.

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Direct treatments & whole-house fumigation — when you need decisive action

For drywood termites, whole-structure fumigation sometimes becomes necessary. Brands like Vikane gas are commonly used for tent fumigation. It’s dramatic: the house is tented, treated, and ventilated—but it’s thorough. For smaller drywood spots, local spot treatments (injections, foams, or heat) can work without tenting.

Fumigation will remove almost all drywood colonies; spot treatments can be effective if the infestation is limited. The mild contradiction? Fumigation seems extreme, but often it’s the simplest, fastest way to get complete coverage—especially for older homes with multiple voids where termites hide.

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Physical fixes and home changes that actually help

Here’s where you can make tangible differences without calling someone every week:

• Eliminate wood-to-soil contact: keep firewood, lumber, and planters off the ground and away from foundations.
• Fix moisture problems: leaks, poor drainage, and clogged gutters attract subterranean termites—Arizona monsoons don’t help.
• Use pressure-treated wood: for decks and framing where possible.

Small things matter: a sloped grading, a repaired fascia board, or replacing mulch near the foundation can make invasion less likely. Think of it like patching a leaking roof—small repairs, big Prevention.

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DIY products — cheap and tempting, but beware

Homeowner sprays, borate powders, and aerosol foams are everywhere. Borate products (like Bora-Care) are useful for pretreating bare wood or treating small, accessible spots. They’re affordable and less toxic than many alternatives. But for established colonies—especially subterranean—DIY usually only delays the inevitable.

Honestly, a small success with DIY can lull you into a false sense of security. That’s risky. A professional inspection first saves money and time in the long run.

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Which method should you choose? A quick guide

• Infestation type: drywood often needs fumigation or spot treatment; subterranean often needs barriers or baiting.
• House construction: slab homes, crawl spaces, and pier-and-beam all influence method choice.
• Budget & timing: fumigation is fast but disruptive; baiting is less intrusive but slower.
• Warranty & follow-up: ask about inspection intervals, guarantees, and service terms.

Sometimes the best answer is a combo—baiting plus a targeted liquid barrier, for example. That’s not indecision; it’s layered defense. It’s like using a deadbolt and an alarm together.

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What to expect during a professional service

Technicians will inspect, explain findings, and recommend an approach. They’ll mark utilities and prep areas if trenching or fumigation is needed. Expect clear safety instructions and a follow-up schedule. Ask about the active ingredient names (so you know what’s being applied), the warranty, and how long the treatment effect should last.

Let me explain: a good company will communicate, show you evidence (photos, mud tubes), and give a written plan. If they don’t, that’s a red flag.

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Ready to take the next step?

Termites don’t wait. Maricopa County’s heat and seasonal storms mean activity can spike suddenly. If you’ve spotted signs or you just want peace of mind, we can help. Arizona Termite Control offers local expertise, clear explanations, and real solutions tailored to Phoenix-area homes.

Call us at 480-660-3093 or Request a Free Inspection. Don’t let termites make a dent in your home or your sense of security—let’s check it out and make a plan together.

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