Termites are one of the most destructive pests in Singapore. They attack wooden furniture, flooring, and even building structures, often without being noticed until serious damage is done. If you are dealing with termites, you need to act fast. Below, we cover the most effective DIY termite control methods as well as when it is better to call a licensed professional.
DIY Termite Control in Singapore
These home remedies can help with minor infestations, but they may not be enough for larger colonies:
1. Boric Acid Treatment
Boric acid powder disrupts termites’ digestive systems and eventually kills them. Mix it with hot water and spray affected areas, or apply powder directly to cracks and wooden joints. Works for drywood and dampwood termites, but not for large infestations.
2. Cardboard or Wood Bait Traps
Soak cardboard or small wood pieces, attach poison bait, and place near termite activity, such as mud tubes or cracks. Termites feed on it and spread poison to the colony.
3. Orange Oil Spray
Effective against drywood termites. Spray directly into cracks and crevices. Works more as a repellent and is not a long-term solution.
4. Petroleum Jelly
Rubbing jelly into termite entry holes can suffocate them and block re-entry. This is more preventive than curative.
5. Beneficial Nematodes
Parasitic worms that naturally kill termites in soil and wood piles. Safe for homes and gardens.
6. Sunlight and Heat Exposure
Move infested wooden furniture outdoors for direct sunlight. Heat removes moisture and kills termites inside.
7. Freezing Small Items
For small wooden pieces, wrapping and freezing for 3 to 4 days can eliminate hidden termites.
8. Diatomaceous Earth
Sprinkling diatomaceous earth around affected areas dehydrates termites when they crawl through it.
Note: DIY treatments can help temporarily, but termites are highly resilient. If you see widespread mud tubes, hollow wood, or flying termites (swarmers), it is time to call a professional.
Professional Termite Control in Singapore
Licensed pest control companies use advanced methods that are more effective and longer lasting:
- Bait Stations – Placed around your property to attract termites and eliminate the entire colony.
- Soil-Applied Termiticides – Protects wooden structures by creating a chemical barrier underground.
- Foam or Dust Injections – Reaches termites inside walls and voids.
- Heat or Cold Treatment – For areas where chemical use is not suitable.
- Thermal Imaging Detection – Identifies hidden termite activity without damaging your property.
Professional treatment not only removes termites but also prevents future infestations.
Termite Prevention Tips for Singapore Homes
- Keep wood away from direct soil contact.
- Seal cracks and entry points in walls and flooring.
- Fix leaky pipes and improve ventilation, as termites thrive in moisture.
- Remove tree stumps, firewood piles, and wooden debris.
- Schedule a termite inspection at least once a year.
- Use termite-resistant building materials for renovations or new homes.
When to Call a Termite Specialist in Singapore
If you notice any of these signs:
- Hollow-sounding wood
- Mud tubes along walls
- Flying termites inside your home
- Damaged furniture or skirting boards
it is best not to wait. Termite damage repair often costs far more than professional treatment.
Termite Specialist Pte Ltd is a licensed termite control company in Singapore with proven solutions for homes, offices, and commercial properties.
Visit us at 50 Bukit Batok Street 23, #05-30 MIDVIEW BUILDING, Singapore 659578
Call +65 6910 3776 for a termite inspection today.