When it comes to household pests, termites are among the most destructive, causing billions of dollars in property damage each year. The unfortunate reality is that termites can exist in your home, slowly destroying the lumber frame, for months and even years without being noticed.
In addition to being the most destructive pests, treating termites is also one of the most expensive. Whether you use bait stations or other methods, continuous monitoring is crucial to ensuring that termites are eliminated entirely and do not return.
This guide provides comprehensive information on treating termites in Maryland, including the associated costs of treatment.
How Much Does Termite Treatment Cost in Maryland?
Termite treatment costs in Maryland vary based on several factors, including the severity of the infestation, the chosen treatment method, and the property’s size.
On average, homeowners can expect to pay around $560, with typical costs ranging from $325 to $1,300. In cases of severe infestations requiring extensive treatments like fumigation, costs can escalate up to $7,000. (Fixr.com)
Factors Influencing Termite Treatment Costs in Maryland
- Treatment Method: Tentless treatments, commonly used for subterranean termites, range from $3.25 to $17.20 per linear foot. Tenting, often reserved for drywood termites, costs between $1.10 and $3.25 per square foot. Bait stations – most commonly used for long-term prevention – cost between $400 and $3,000.
- Infestation Severity: Small infestations may cost between $265 and $1,290, while severe cases can range from $1,290 to $7,000, depending on the extent of the damage and the complexity of the treatment.
- Property Size: Larger homes require more extensive treatment, resulting in higher costs. For instance, treating a 2,000 sq.ft. home can range from $2,200 to $6,500.
- Termite Species: Subterranean termites, the most prevalent termite in Maryland, typically cost between $270 and $1,625 to treat. Drywood termite treatments are more expensive, ranging from $1,080 to $7,000.
- Inspection Fees: Termite inspections in Maryland generally cost between $100 and $200. Some pest control companies may waive this fee if treatment services are contracted.
Additional Considerations:
- Termite Bonds: Ongoing protection plans, known as termite bonds, can add $500 to $2,000 to your total cost but offer regular inspections and treatments, providing long-term peace of mind.
- Damage Repairs: Post-treatment repairs for termite damage can range from $600 to $3,000, depending on the extent of structural damage.
For a precise estimate tailored to your specific situation, it’s advisable to contact a licensed pest control professional in Maryland. They can assess your property’s condition and recommend the most effective treatment plan.
Types of Termite Treatments
Three main types of termite treatments are available to homeowners dealing with termite infestations, including:
Liquid Soil Treatments
Liquid soil termite treatment is used to eliminate termites by creating a protective barrier that keeps these pests out. Liquid soil treatment is applied around and beneath the home to create a barrier that is undetectable to termites, so that they won’t know to avoid the area.
These types of treatments can be highly effective in preventing termites because termites are highly sensitive to these chemicals.
Bait Stations
Termite bait stations are another common tactic used to eliminate termites in a home. Bait stations work by attracting termites with a non-toxic cellulose bait, such as wood, before introducing an insecticide that the termites can consume.
After the termites ingest the insecticide, they will return to their colony and eventually die, along with the rest of the termites. This is due to the insecticide disrupting the molting process, which prevents termites from growing and reproducing.
Wood Treatment
Topical treatments, such as Tim-Bor and Bora-Care, can be applied directly to wood infested with termites to kill them. These products can often be purchased from home improvement stores and can be applied by the homeowner themselves.
However, it is essential to note that these wood treatments may not be as effective in eliminating termites in a home as professional pest control.
Is Termite Treatment Covered By Insurance?
Unfortunately, standard homeowners’ insurance policies typically do not cover termite damage or treatment. This is because most insurance companies consider termite damage to be a result of normal wear and tear on a home, and many homeowners concerned about termites choose to purchase separate termite warranties from pest control companies due to this.
Termite Prevention Tips
Preventing a termite infestation starts with proactive home maintenance and awareness. Here are some effective tips to keep termites from targeting your property:
- Seal all potential entry points: Inspect your foundation, siding, and roofline for cracks, gaps, or crevices where termites could enter. Use caulk or sealant to close them off.
- Eliminate excess moisture: Termites are drawn to damp environments. Repair leaky pipes, improve drainage, and ensure your gutters and downspouts direct water away from your home’s foundation.
- Store firewood properly: Keep firewood, mulch, and other cellulose-based materials at least 20 feet away from your home and elevated off the ground to reduce the risk of attracting termites.
- Schedule regular inspections: Conduct routine checks for mud tubes, hollow-sounding wood, or discarded wings—common signs of termite activity. For best results, schedule annual inspections with a licensed pest control professional.
- Maintain your yard: Trim back shrubs and trees so they don’t touch the exterior of your home, and remove dead wood or stumps that can attract termite colonies.
Implementing these tips can significantly reduce your risk of a termite infestation and protect your home for years to come.
The Importance of Termite Treatments
If there is an active termite infestation in your home, seeking pest control services is crucial for protecting you, your loved ones, and the structural integrity of your home. Termites are among the most destructive household pests and can cost homeowners hundreds to thousands of dollars in repairs to rectify the damage they have caused.
Getting treatment right away can save you money on future pest control services and help mitigate the damage being done to your home. If you suspect termites are present in your home, don’t wait–contact a trusted pest control expert right away.
FAQs
How long does professional termite treatment last?
Homeowners can expect professional termite treatment to last for about five years. However, for the most accurate idea of how long termite treatment will last, you should talk to your personal pest control expert.
Are termite prevention plans worth the annual cost?
Yes, most termite prevention plans are worth the annual cost, especially if your neighbors have previously encountered termites or you have experienced a past infestation.
What happens if I delay termite treatment?
Delaying termite treatment is not advised, as doing so can allow a termite infestation to grow even larger and cause even more structural damage to your home. Professional termite treatment should be sought at the first sign of an infestation.