Currently, a number of synthetic pyrethroid termiticides are labeled for sub-soil applications around homes for the control of termites. The soil termiticide is mixed with a foaming agent inside special foam-generating equipment which mixes the foam to the proper consistency. Foams are used to supplement the soil termiticide in completing the chemical barrier. They do not replace the soil termiticide. The newest method of termite control in New York State is the termiticide bait.
Baits contain insecticide mixed within a cellulose matrix.
Termites which feed on the bait are killed, and when enough colony members die, so does the colony. Some termiticide baits are registered in New York State. Research on bait effectiveness has been conducted in the southern United States, but as of this date, there is no such information about bait performance in New York State. These products are applied directly to bare wood, where they penetrate and deposit micro-crystals of boric acid in the wood eliminating active infestations of termites and providing a degree of protection against future infestations. These products are also used on a pre-treatment basis in the early stages of home construction when they can be applied to exposed wood.