Using Borate for Termite Control

Termites can be a very costly problem. By treating your wood early, you can avoid the inevitable structural damage and hassle of replacing your wood later. Many people are concerned about treating their house for termite control because of the dangers of pest control chemicals. If you are one such person, then you may want to consider using Borate. Borate is the more natural alternative for pest control chemicals that will still leave your home termite free.

What is Borate?

Borate is a naturally occurring mineral found in plants, rocks, and fossils. It is easily mined and therefore easily accessible. It contains the 5^th element on the periodic table, boron. It has hundreds of uses and forms, and is found in virtually every plant, animal, and living person. As an additive it is used in a variety of products from make-up to pest control products. Borate is widely and commonly used as a pest control product because it is extremely safe to humans and pets.

How Is It Used As A Pest Control Product?

Borate is a very efficient mineral for the use of pest control, specifically, wood-destroying insects. It is often used to protect wood from such pests as termites, powderpost beetles, and carpenter ants. Most often it is applied directly to wood, cracks, or crevices for the treatment of termites.

When using borates as a pest control measure, it is important to treat all surfaces of the wood. The borate product then soaks into the wood, remaining active for an extended period of time. Because borates are not broken down by the sun, air, or other elements, they can last in your wood for years. They are also effective in getting rid of termites in as little as three months.

After treating your wood with borates, it is imperative that you seal the wood. Water is the only element than can cause borate to break down, and pretty rapidly at that. If you allow water to enter your treated wood, the borates become ineffective.

What Names Is It Marketed Under?

You can find borate products in most pest control supply stores. Borates as pest controls are also easy to find online. A common borate pest control product is Bora-Care. You will also find it marketed under Timbor, Jecta-Gel, Mop Up and Nibor-D. It is sold in both liquid and granular form, depending on your desired application method. Look for borate-containing products to safely treat your home for termites.