Drowning Termites: An Effective but Potentially Damaging Method
Dealing with termites can be challenging, but one common method, particularly for drywood termites, involves submerging the infested wood in water. This method is effective in killing termites, but it comes with several considerations and potential drawbacks. In this article, we will explore the pros and cons of this approach, along with alternative methods for termite control.
Can Termites be Drowned?
Termites require oxygen to breathe, and this fact forms the basis of the drowning method. By fully submerging a table or other wood item infested with termites in water, it is possible to kill these insects. This technique is especially effective for drywood termites, which live inside the wood and are more susceptible to drowning compared to subterranean termites. However, the success of this method depends on several factors.
Duration
Termites can survive without air for some time, but to ensure their complete drowning, prolonged immersion for several days is necessary. Cutting this period short may leave surviving termites to regroup and potentially continue their damage. Therefore, careful planning and execution are crucial to ensure the effectiveness of this method.
Type of Termite
While drywood termites are generally more susceptible to drowning, subterranean termites, which often live deeper in the soil, may be less affected. Subterranean termites can retreat to their tunnel systems and avoid direct contact with water, making this method less effective for them. Understanding the specific type of termites present is essential before opting for this approach.
Wood Integrity
Submerging wood in water can cause significant damage. Wooden items, especially those made of solid wood, may warp, develop mold, and lose structural integrity. Water can also dissolve the adhesives used in the construction of the item, weakening the glue joints and potentially rendering the table unusable. For composite wood, the damage may be even more severe, leading to a complete disintegration of the furniture.
Alternative Treatments
Given the potential damage to the infested item, it is often recommended to explore alternative methods for termite control. Chemical treatments, such as borate or pyrethroid applications, can be highly effective and less damaging to the wooden furniture. Professional pest control services can also provide comprehensive solutions, ensuring both the elimination of termites and the preservation of the wood.
What Happens to the Table After Drowning?
Submerging a table in water for an extended period can have severe consequences. If the table is made of solid wood, it is likely to warp, and all the glue joints will be damaged. This can make the table unsuitable for future use. For wood composites, the effects can be even more detrimental, with the furniture potentially falling apart in contact with water. These outcomes highlight the importance of carefully considering the potential damage before opting for this method.
Another effective alternative is heat treatment. This involves enclosing the furniture in large bags and applying heat to kill the termites. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures, which are lethal to termites, can ensure the complete elimination of these pests. After heat treatment, the table should still be usable, as long as there are no live termites left. This method is widely recognized for its effectiveness in termite control without damaging the wood.
Alternatively, using a vacuum chamber for a couple of days can also be an effective method. This process involves placing the infested wood in a sealed chamber and gradually increasing the pressure, which can help remove moisture from the wood and suffocate the termites. While this method is less common, it offers a viable alternative that minimizes damage to the wood.
In conclusion, while drowning can be an effective method for killing termites, it is crucial to weigh the potential damage to the infested item. Exploring alternative methods, such as heat treatment or vacuum chamber techniques, can offer a more balanced solution for termite control without compromising the integrity of the furniture.