Types of Termiticides

We’re all concerned about impacts of chemicals on the environment as well as our own health and our pet’s. Homeowners are wise to ask questions when it comes to the use of certain pesticides in their homes or landscapes. That goes for termiticides — the substances used to rid a home of termites — as well. 

Following are some basics about termiticides in general. 

Types of Termiticides

There are two basic types of termiticides used in Phoenix.

Soil treatment: A termiticide for soil treatment may come as a liquid or foam and is used to treat the soil under or around a house, where it kills or deters the termite.

Wood treatment: Formulations for this type of termiticide are injected directly into infested wood. These treatments target active as well as future infestations.

These types of termiticides use some chemicals. Fipronil, chlorfenapur, and imidacloprid are among the most common. They work on the termite’s nervous system, causing death anywhere from 24 hours to 90 days. These two termiticides are classified as “non-repellent”. This means they are slow acting and that foraging insects share them with others in the nest, thus controlling the termite colony. 

Altriset, a Termiticide With Lower Impact on the Environment

Research scientists are constantly looking for new, more effective pesticides with lower impact on the environment. One such new and very effective termiticide is Altriset. It is derived from a tropical tree in the Ryania genus, which produces a natural insecticide in its bark that is used in a new class of manufactured insecticides called anthranilic diamides. The active ingredient in Altriset, “chlorantaniliprole,” appears to have extremely low toxicity to humans, pets, and livestock. It also apparently does not harm bees and is not systemic in plants. 

For now, the only use for Altriset is for subterranean termites. Although, research is ongoing that may result in approving it for drywood termite treatments. 

Altriset has no odor, fumes, taste or color. It is a non-repellent termiticide: termites transfer it among themselves through grooming and feeding. It targets a specific part of the insect’s muscles, paralyzing members of the colony after sharing it with other termites so that they expire within hours of contact. This very specific way of acting means the substance is less harmful to nontarget animals. 

How Effective Is Altriset?

After treating an area, Altriset will protect it for up to five years — much longer than the length of protection of other leading termiticide brands.

Applying Altriset to the soil around your home, while also treating wood infestations, is a quick way to put a halt to the damage. 

Treating your home during construction can help prevent subterranean termites if they are active in your area. However, you still need an annual inspection to monitor for termite activity. Annual inspections are important when you’re making the decision of whether or not you need further prevention and control. Budget Brothers Termite & Pest can guide you in choosing a termiticide depending on your home’s construction, the setting of the home, as well as the level and kind of termite activity.