Quote:
Originally Posted by vintageogauge
Bio-advanced makes a Termite Killer granular product specifically for subterranean termites, its' about $50 and will do the perimeter of most designer homes twice. I refused to pay Massey or Deans for nothing but an inspection and have used this product for over 7 years. I recently sold my home in TV and the inspection resulted in free of termites or any other wood destroying insects. I have never heard of a "documented" case of subterranean termites in any of The Villages other than the historic section, Deans and Massey are laughing all the way to the bank.
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Here is what the Florida Department of Agriculture said about the product:
This is Derek Yan with the FL Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). We just spoke about your questions concerning licensed pest control companies and general use products to control termite activity. Specifically, the termite granules by Bio-Advanced which I will link their label here: 501421781a 190319V1 f Termite Killer GRAN 9lb (salsify.com)
Just to reiterate, FDACS does not endorse any specific brand name or product. Also, this discussion was specifically on subterranean termites. We discussed why licensed professionals are used to treat termite products: They are trained professionals and have access to more effective pesticides that are restricted to the public because of safety reasons. And trained professionals can inspect the structure for any evidence/conducive conditions that they are trained to identify. This is not to say that the granules would not work, but I would not recommend it without other preventative treatments in place. Bio-Advanced's label does state to find a licensed professional if problems persist. The label for Bio-Advanced's "Termite Killer" instructs to place granules over the soil and water it in to treat the upper layer 6 inches out. Licensed professionals do what is called a "trench and treat" where they dig a trench 6 inches wide and 6 inches deep, applying 4 gallons of liquid termiticide every 10 feet (according to product label). This comparison is to show the differences in application. Also, important to remember is that the company's have a contract that can state that termite damage that occurs due to misapplication would be covered.
Homeowners should have a licensed company apply subterranean termite preventative treatments under a contract where the technicians can inspect for other wood destroying organisms (WDO) and evidence. The two most common types of prevention that are proven to work are in-ground bait stations and liquid termiticide in the soil. Homeowners don't have to choose just one if the company provides both services. The bait stations do not attract termites to the home, instead it uses cellulose material treated with a pesticide that is spread through the colony and targets their ability to shed their exoskeleton. The liquid termiticide is placed into the soil where it adheres to the dirt and is effective up to 10 years, according to research. Here is more information on protecting your home:
https://ccmedia.fdacs.gov/content/do...n_Termites.pdf
We had also discussed why many people in the area are canceling their contracts due to no termite activity. Whereas in South Georgia, you saw that everyone had a contract with professional companies. I'm not too versed in Georgia's rules yet, but in FL builders require a termite preventative treatment. You were aware of it when you mentioned how a liquid treatment was included for new homeowners for 5 years before they would have the option to continue treatments. Because of this rule, termite activity may not be apparent initially. Plus, the termite colonies are very cryptic and hidden. The evidence of subterranean termite activity could be hard to spot for homeowners. Especially if they moved in from somewhere without these concerns.
Remember, your home is one of your major investments. You want to mitigate any risk of damage to your property. A licensed pest company would be the best option to do so. If you are unsatisfied with any current company's services you can shop around. Also, important to note is that if one wants to apply their own pesticides while having a company provide their own service be sure to contact them in case the products conflict, dilute, or reduce the efficacy of each other.
Here is more information on subterranean termites: Subterranean Termites / Termites / Protect Your Home from Pests / Health and Safety / Consumer Resources / Home - Florida Department of Agriculture & Consumer Services (fdacs.gov)
I hope our talk answered your question. If you have any other questions, feel free to contact me with the information attached in my email signature below.
Thank you,
Derek Yan
Environmental Consultant
Entomology & Pest Control Section
Division of Agricultural Environmental Services
Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
(850) 528-5396 - Cell
Derek.Yan@FDACS.gov