What termites avoid & how you can use this knowledge to your advantage…

Sunlight

Termites thrive in dark, damp environments. Direct sunlight is deadly to them, especially for drywood termites.

Tip – Expose infested furniture or wood to direct sunlight for few hours to help drive termites out.

Essential Oils

Some essential oils have been shown to repel or even kill termites, especially when used in concentrated forms.

Oils termites hate

• Orange oil – Contains d-limonene, which destroys termite exoskeletons

• Clove oil – Acts as a natural insecticide

• Neem oil – Interferes with termite feeding and reproduction

Tip – Mix these oils with water & spray in areas prone to termites for a natural repellent.

Vinegar

White vinegar, especially when combined with lemon juice, is a natural deterrent. It can kill termites on contact when applied directly.

Tip – Use it as a cleaning agent or spray it into cracks where termites might enter.

Salt

Termites can’t survive in high concentrations of salt. Saltwater solutions can dehydrate and kill them if injected into their tunnels.

Tip – Pour saltwater into suspected termite entry points or mud tubes.

Low Humidity and Dry Environments

Moisture is essential for most termite species. Dry, well-ventilated spaces are unappealing to them.

Tip – Use dehumidifiers and ensure proper ventilation, especially in crawl spaces & basements.

Treated or Naturally Resistant Wood

Certain woods & chemical treatments naturally repel termites.

Woods termites hate

• Cedar

• Redwood

• Pressure-treated lumber

Tip – Use termite-resistant materials for decks, fencing, & home construction whenever possible.

While these termite “haters” can help discourage infestations, they won’t replace a full treatment plan if termites have already moved in. Still, by creating an environment they hate, you can make your home a lot less appealing to termites.