Professional Termite Control That Actually Works

What Professional Termite Control Really Looks Like (And Why You Shouldn’t Wait)

If you’re reading this, chances are you’re either seeing strange signs around your home — soft wood, weird pinholes in walls, swarming insects — or you’ve already had the dreaded conversation with a neighbor: “We had termites.”

Here’s the hard truth most people don’t realize until it’s too late: by the time you see evidence of termites, they’ve likely been at work for months — possibly years. And the damage they cause isn’t cosmetic. It’s structural.

So, if you're wondering whether it's worth calling in professional termite control, the answer is yes — and the sooner, the better.

Let’s break down exactly what that means, how to spot the early signs, what drywood termites are (and why they're trickier than you'd think), and how to make sure the termite exterminator you hire actually knows what they’re doing.

The Problem With Termites? You Don’t Hear Them Coming

Most pests announce themselves. Rats scratch in the walls. Roaches scuttle when the lights flip on. But termites? Silent. Hidden. Patient.

And while they won’t bite you or spread disease, they’ll do something worse: eat your home from the inside out. Termites feed on cellulose — the stuff in wood, drywall, paper. They work quietly, often out of sight, and can compromise the integrity of support beams, flooring, and more before you ever spot a clue.

So when people say termite damage is sneaky — it’s not just a line. It’s a reality.

Signs You Might Have a Termite Problem

Think you’d notice termites easily? Not necessarily. In fact, people often call a termite exterminator after a contractor or home inspector finds the issue.

That said, there are some early warning signs you can keep an eye out for:

Mud tubes running along your foundation, walls, or crawl spaces (subterranean termites)

Small piles of wings near window sills or doorways (swarmers)

Hollow-sounding wood when tapped

Tiny pinholes in drywall

Bubbling or peeling paint, often mistaken for water damage

Frass — termite droppings that resemble sawdust or coffee grounds (drywood termite indicator)

If you notice any of these, don’t panic — but don’t ignore them either. This is the time to call for professional termite control, not start Googling DIY methods.

Let’s Talk Drywood Termites: The Sneakiest of the Bunch

You’ve probably heard of subterranean termites — they live underground and build mud tubes to travel. But drywood termites are different, and arguably more challenging.

They live inside the wood they infest. No need for soil contact. No mud tubes. They don’t even need much moisture. This means they can set up camp in places you’d never think to look: attic beams, furniture, door frames, even picture frames.

Drywood termite control requires a different approach:

Fumigation is often the most effective method, especially for widespread infestations

Localized treatments (like drilling and injecting pesticides) can work for small, contained colonies

Ongoing monitoring is critical — because missing even one colony means they’ll be back

If you're in NYC or the surrounding region, drywood termites are less common than subterranean ones, but they've been reported — especially in older, wooden-frame homes or properties with imported wooden furniture or antiques.

What to Expect from Professional Termite Control

Hiring a termite exterminator shouldn’t feel like guesswork. A legitimate, experienced provider will walk you through a very specific process — no rushing, no vague answers.

Step 1: Inspection

This isn’t just someone glancing at your baseboards. A real inspection involves moisture meters, thermal imaging, tapping wood, crawling through attics or basements, and checking every potential entry point or hotspot.

Step 2: Identification

There are multiple types of termites. Misidentifying the species leads to the wrong treatment — and wasted time. Make sure your exterminator can explain which type you have and how they determined that.

Step 3: Customized Treatment Plan

There’s no one-size-fits-all solution. Depending on the type of termite, the size of the infestation, and the layout of your home or building, treatment could include:

Baiting systems (for subterranean termites)

Liquid barrier treatments

Foam or dust applications

Fumigation (especially for drywood termite control)

Structural wood repairs, if damage is extensive

Step 4: Follow-Up & Prevention

Termite control isn’t just about killing the bugs you see (or don’t see). It’s about keeping them from coming back. Look for companies that offer:

Monitoring systems (like bait stations)

Annual inspections

Wood treatments or barriers

Moisture control advice or services

What You Should Ask Before Hiring a Termite Exterminator

You’re about to let someone treat the structure of your home. Don’t be afraid to ask hard questions. Here are the ones that matter:

Are you licensed and insured in this state?

What type of termites are we dealing with, and how do you know?

What treatment do you recommend, and why?

Do you guarantee your work? What happens if termites return?

Can I see reviews from past customers in my area?

If a company can’t answer clearly — or worse, seems annoyed you’re asking — walk away.

Termite Myths That Need to Die

Let’s clear up some common misunderstandings:

Myth: You can treat termites with DIY sprays.

Reality: At best, you might kill a few stragglers. The colony stays untouched.

Myth: Termites only affect old homes.

Reality: New construction can be at risk too, especially if the builders didn’t treat the soil or used untreated wood.

Myth: If you don’t see them, you don’t have them.

Reality: They often go undetected for months or years.

Myth: One treatment and you’re done forever.

Reality: Termite protection is ongoing — especially in high-risk areas.

What Professional Termite Control Costs — and Why It’s Worth It

Here’s the part nobody likes: termite control isn’t cheap. But neither is ignoring the problem.

A standard treatment in NYC can range from $800 to $3,000+, depending on:

The size of the infestation

The treatment method (fumigation is more expensive)

The square footage of your home or building

Whether structural repairs are needed

Compare that to the average cost of termite damage repairs: over $7,500 — and most insurance doesn’t cover it.

Professional termite control isn’t a splurge. It’s damage prevention, home protection, and peace of mind.

Final Thoughts: Handle It Now, Thank Yourself Later

Whether you’re a first-time homeowner, a long time landlord, or managing a commercial space in NYC, termite control should be on your radar.

Termites don’t go away on their own. They don’t take breaks. And they won’t stop at one beam or floorboard. But with the right professional termite control service — one that knows how to deal with both subterranean and drywood termites — you can protect your property, avoid costly repairs, and keep your space safe for years to come.

If something looks off, get it checked. If you’ve had termites before, set up an annual inspection. And if you just want peace of mind, start a prevention plan.

Because when it comes to termites, doing nothing is the most expensive option of all.