Most homeowners will need termite control and prevention at some point. Expect to spend anywhere between $300 to $2,500 (or more). This translates to $12 to $26 per square foot.
Final costs will vary based on the treatment type, size of the area, and the scope of the infestation. (Related: Termite Treatment: A Cost & Consumer Guide) Let’s discuss everything you need to know in calculating the costs for termite treatment.
Termite Treatment: National Average Costs
National Average Cost | Average Range |
|---|---|
$1,000 | $300 to $2,500+ |
Typical termite treatment runs for $300 to $2,500 (or more) with the national average at $1,00. Many homeowners often don’t consider the early signs of termite infestation very seriously. They only actively work on mitigating the issue once the damage has worsened. Hiring a local pest control professional can help you narrow down the correct treatment type for your home, such as:
Cost to Treat Termites per Square Foot
Termite treatment ranges from $12 to $26 per square foot. Costs will primarily depend on your preferred type of treatment.
Termite Treatment Cost by Type
Let’s discuss the different types of termite treatment and their average costs.
Chemical Termiticide Treatment
This is one of the most prevalent termite extermination types, especially if a termite colony hasn’t infiltrated your home’s structure directly. The use of chemical treatments allows you to make a targeted application for less disruption to your everyday life.
It ranges between $4 and $17 per linear foot. Exterminators may use a combination of chemical termiticides depending on the severity of the infestation. Usually, they start by drilling small holes surrounding the house’s exterior (or into the foundation) before pouring the chemicals.
Termite Bait Systems
Using termite bait systems starts from $9 to $13 per linear foot. Any other bait needed after the first application may only hike the costs.
The bait method may require further visits, as the application isn’t as targeted as using chemical termiticides. Costs will also add up in the long run with routine visits to monitor the bait and protect your home from termite presence.
Tenting
Homes that require a more comprehensive approach may resort to tenting their homes before using gas fumigation or heat-based treatment. The tenting approach starts by setting up a sturdy tent surrounding the premise of your home. Then, the heat inside the house is raised to treatable levels, or the home is infused with gas.
Given its intricate process, it is considered the most expensive termite treatment method. Expect to pay $1,500 to $3,000 (or more) depending on the size of your home. This translates to $6.5 to $20 per linear foot. (Related: Termite Tenting: How Much Does It Cost?)
Termite Treatment: Cost Factors
At this point, some of you may be thinking– what goes into calculating the costs for your termite treatment project? Several factors come into play, including the termite type, infestation extent, total home size, and the type of treatment needed.
As previously mentioned, there are different termite extermination methods you can consider to deal with the infestation in your home. Consult with your exterminator to discuss the best option for your situation.
Type of Termites
Keep in mind that termites are pests that can cause severe damage to your home and well-being. As such, they must be taken seriously. There are three termite types prevalent in the country: drywood, dampwood, and subterranean termites.
Dampwood termites
Drywood termites
Subterranean termites
The Extent of the Infestation
Depending on the extent of the termite infestation, the total costs for your home may vary from the national average. That said, it’s best to keep an eye out for all termite infestation tell-tale signs such as visible termites, swarms, mud tunnels, and more.
The moment you see holes in the wood, hollow-sounding timber, or hear faint chewing noises in the background– contact a local pest exterminator to assess the condition of your home.
The sooner you get termite treatment, the better it is for your family and budget. Waiting until the damage goes out of control will only have you spending more on more extensive termite extermination methods.
Size of the Structure to be Treated
The cost of termite treatment can vary significantly due to the size of the home. Most whole-home treatments can cost you more than $3,000. Meanwhile, limited applications range between $300 to $1,000 (or more).
Type and Number of Treatments
Another influential factor in calculating the termite treatment costs depends on the treatment type and the application frequency. As previously mentioned, chemical treatments range between $4 and $17 per linear foot. The application must remain consistent until all traces of termite activity are gone.
You may also opt for termite bait systems, which start from $9 to $13 per linear foot. A whole-house tenting may add up to $3,000 or more, based on a flat rate or rate per linear foot. There’s also the termite fumigation route, which costs $11 to $22 per linear foot. Heat treatments will set you back $1,500 on average.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long will my termite treatment last?
A termite treatment can generally last for one to two years. Your local termite exterminator might suggest you sign up for a plan or ongoing treatment management agreement during the first treatment.
How can I save on the cost of termite treatment?
It is best to check for termite presence regularly through an annual inspection contract and a local extermination company to reduce treatment costs. Specific protection plans can also be purchased to prevent the cost of damages in the future, which are commonly excluded in the homeowner's insurance policies. Annual inspections and a regularly scheduled sequence of treatments in termite-infested areas of your home are covered by these termite protection policies.
How do I know if I have termites at home?
Sightings of termite swarmers, hollow-sounding timber, and faint chewing noises are a few telling signs of termites. It can be challenging to spot these pests as they are clever at hiding their tracks. If you suspect that termites already infiltrate your home, you must see to it that you sign up for termite inspection immediately.
my house was inspected w no sign of terminates but recommended treatment. Thought the price was high. Got second opinion that did not recommend treatment but if I wanted it the cost was half the price of the first proposal. I expected a difference in cost but not that much. I am at a standstill on this. Both recommended Timbor treatment for exposed wood.
Where are you located and how old was the home? Those are important considerations. If the second opinion is from an established provider, I would probably go by that. They might not be as ‘sales’ motivated.