If you’re reading this, you’re probably dealing with termites, but you don’t want to tent your house. Good. Tenting isn’t the only approach; there are several direct and focused ways to tackle termites without all the disruption. We see these cases all the time. Here is the effective solution for how to get rid of termites in Singapore.
1. Baiting Systems
These are stations installed around your property, often in the ground or at entry points. Termites are attracted to the bait, feed on it, and then carry the slow-acting poison back to their colony. Over time, the colony dies off. This method works well for underground termite problems. People use it a lot in Singapore homes and businesses. Maintenance and regular inspection are key; a neglected bait station isn’t going to do much.
Read more: Termite Baiting System in Singapore
Pros:
- No need to vacate the house.
- Targets the colony, not just the visible bugs.
- This method causes little disruption.
Cons:
- Takes time: weeks to months for full results.
- Professionals must monitor and follow up regularly.
2. Liquid Termiticides (Soil and Barrier Treatments)
Applied around the perimeter of your building or right into the soil near where termites enter. It creates a chemical barrier; when termites cross it, they die. Advanced formulas are often undetectable by termites, so they can’t avoid them.
How it works:
- Trenching and treating the soil along the foundation.
- Sometimes, spot-treating infested wood directly if you can access the colony.
According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), liquid soil treatments prevent 80–90% of new infestations for several years if properly applied.
Pros:
- Long-lasting.
- Prevention as well as cure.
Cons:
- Some chemical exposure, but modern products are low-odour, low-toxicity, and NEA-regulated in Singapore.
- Not always a “DIY” job; best handled by NEA-certified professionals.
3. Spot Treatments (Foams, Dusts, and Injections)
If the infestation is small and localized—think a door frame, built-in cabinet, or window sill—you can target it directly. Drill small holes, inject foam or liquid termiticide, and patch up after. Quick and cost-effective.
Options:
- Boric acid (kills termites on contact, affordable, easy DIY).
- Expanding foam and chemical dusts (reach deep into cracks).
- Orange oil is eco-friendly and kills termites on contact. But it may not work well for large infestations and is debated.
Warning: Spot treatments work only when you catch termites early and can reach the infestation. If you have hollow-sounding wood all over or widespread activity, don’t expect miracles from a bottle of spray.
Explore: Spot Termite Treatment Services
4. Heat, Microwave, and Cold Treatments
For drywood termites (the ones that don’t need soil), you can heat localized areas to 120–140°F (49–60°C) or deliver microwaves directly into wood. Kills both termites and eggs on contact without chemicals. Specialized machines are required, usually handled by pros.
- Heat: Used by leading pest companies, including ours.
- Microwaves: Not as widely available; best for cabinets, small walls, or furniture.
- Liquid Nitrogen: Freezes termites in small spaces; not practical for large or hidden colonies.
Pros:
- Chemical-free.
- Quick results.
Cons:
- May risk damage to heat-sensitive materials.
- Requires specialized equipment, not a DIY solution.
5. Biological and Naturally-Derived Treatments
- Beneficial Nematodes: Tiny worms that attack termites. Works in wet, outdoor conditions, less effective indoors in dry wood.
- Diatomaceous earth: Powders entire ant and termite trails, causing dehydration. Works better for ants; limited against termites within wood.
6. Maintenance and Prevention
Don’t just treat—prevent termite damage. Remove wood debris, fix leaks, and make sure soil or mulch isn’t in contact with your building’s structure. Seal gaps, ventilate crawl spaces, and schedule regular inspections, especially in humid climates like Singapore.
7. Expert Monitoring Programs
Professional monitoring means you get checks every year or six months. Experts act quickly if they find termites. The earlier you catch them, the less you’ll spend on repairs. At Termite Specialist Pte Ltd, we customize this approach and offer warranty-backed programs for peace of mind.
Learn about our Expert Termite Monitoring Programs
Bottom Line
Skip tenting if the infestation is mild, localized, or caught early. Use bait stations, liquid barriers, and spot treatments. For severe, widespread drywood infestations, tenting might still be the only option. If in doubt, get a professional inspection—make sure it’s NEA-certified if you’re in Singapore. Prevention and ongoing checks save you from big, costly surprises.
If you just want someone experienced to look at your place or walk you through these options, give us a call at Termite Specialist Pte Ltd: +65 6910 3776. Or book an inspection online and visit our office at 7030 Ang Mo Kio Ave 5, #09-87, Singapore 569880.