In areas where wood is shielded from the elements, borates can last as long as 40 years. Borates protect wood against wood decay fungi and have long been used in wood preservation. Borate-treated wood is also more fire retardant than wood that is not treated with borates. Borates are non-selective herbicides, so even a small amount of borate accidentally sprayed on landscape plantings will kill or damage. Termites from different colonies react differently after feeding on borate-treated lumber.
Some termites die after a little feeding.
Some termites can feed on larger quantities of treated wood and persist for many weeks, further reinforcing the need to use other control methods in conjunction with a borate treatment. Choosing a Pest Control Company Call at least three pest control companies and ask for price quotes, what chemical will be used, and how the company plans to treat your house. Professional termite control requires specialized equipment and training. A low price may mean low quality. Even when dealing with the Formosan subterranean termite, you can take 2 weeks to make an educated decision.