How Long Does It Take to Get Rid of Termites?

When you discover a termite infestation, one of your first questions will likely be, "How long will this take to fix?" The answer depends on several factors, including the type of termites, the severity of the infestation, and the treatment method chosen.

In this article, we’ll break down these variables to give you a clear understanding of the termite eradication process.

Key Takeaways

Subterranean termites may take 15–90 days to eliminate with bait stations, while liquid treatments work in weeks.
Drywood termites are eliminated in 3–7 days with fumigation, a quick and reliable treatment option.
Larger infestations and severe damage require more time to control than small or localized termite problems.
Professional pest control services are the most effective and reliable way to eliminate termites and prevent re-infestation.

How Fast Can You Get Rid of Termites?

Getting rid of termites typically takes 15–90 days for subterranean termites when using bait stations, while liquid soil treatments can show results in just a few weeks.

Drywood termites are often eliminated within 3–7 days through fumigation, and smaller infestations treated with spot methods may be resolved in a few days to weeks.

The exact timeframe for termite removal can vary based on these factors:

1. Type of Termite

Different types of termites require different treatment approaches, which can impact how long it takes to get rid of them.

Here's what you need to know about the most common types:

Subterranean Termites: Treatments like bait stations or liquid treatments can take several weeks to months to eliminate the entire colony.
Drywood Termites: Fumigation or tenting can take a few days to a week, but the effects are immediate once completed.

2. Severity of the Infestation

A small, localized termite infestation can be treated quickly with targeted methods such as spot treatments or termite bait stations.

However, larger infestations involving multiple colonies or extensive termite damage will take more time to control completely.

3. Type of Treatment Options

Depending on your chosen treatment method, the time it takes to eliminate termites can vary. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options and how quickly they work:

Bait Stations	Slow-acting bait lures workers, which carry it back to the termite colony. Full eradication takes 15–90 days.
Liquid Treatments	Applied to the soil to kill termites on contact or ingestion. Activity reduces quickly, with full elimination in weeks.
Fumigation	Seals the home and uses gas to kill termites throughout. Takes 3–7 days, including ventilation.

4. DIY vs. Professional Pest Control Services

Professional pest control companies can use advanced methods, such as the Trelona Advanced Termite Bait System or liquid treatment applications, to eradicate the colony fully.

DIY methods often fail to eliminate termites entirely, prolonging the problem.

Preventative Measures to Avoid Re-Infestation

Once termite problems are eradicated, preventative measures are essential to keep them away. As homeowners, here’s what you can do:

Regular Inspections: Annual termite inspections are crucial, especially in high-risk areas like South Florida.
Moisture Control: Fix leaky pipes and ensure proper drainage to reduce moisture in areas like your crawlspace.
Remove Food Sources: Keep wood debris, tree stumps, mulch, and other cellulose-rich materials away from your foundation.
Protective Barriers: Maintain your termite bait stations or reapply liquid treatments like Termidor as recommended.

When to Contact a Pest Control Professional

If you suspect termites, contact a professional exterminator immediately for an inspection. Early detection and treatment can significantly reduce the time and cost required to eliminate termites.

At Native Pest Management, we offer free termite inspections and proven solutions, such as bait stations, liquid treatments, and fumigation, to protect your homefrom termites.

Ready to safeguard your home? Contact us today to schedule your termite inspection and get expert advice tailored to your needs.