A termite resistant spray foam acts like a pesticide spray. It targets termites on the spot for an instant kill. Still, it has unique properties that contribute to its pest-killing benefits.
Since a lot of American households experience termite infestations, it’s important to have a solution handy on the onset of the invasion. One of the best solutions you can purchase over the counter is a foam spray. Below, I have discussed how it works, how you should apply it, and what is the best option in the market.
How Does A Termite Resistant Spray Foam Work?
Just like what I mentioned earlier, termite spray foams act like aerosol pesticides. It’s used for the spot treatment of termites and other insect pests.
The biggest difference is that spray foams have an expanding chemical property. You can use it on hard-to-reach crevices and spaces in your home. After spraying, the foam will spread through the tight area.
Also, since it has a foamy concentration, termites caught in the substance will find it hard to get off. This kills the pest instantly. Termite spray foams also have a longer residual effect than most pesticide sprays in the market.
Is This Safe?
If applied properly, yes, termite foam sprays are safe. Still, just like any termiticides, you should practice caution when applying the product. Below, I have listed some preventive tips to keep you, your family, and your pet safe when using this foam product.
Any direct contact or exposure to termite sprays should be taken seriously. You should wash the affected area with soap and flowing water to dilute the active ingredients.
If your eyes, ears, nose, or mouth got in contact with the foam, you should wash it as well. Also, observe any harsh effects and seek a physician right away if you’re not feeling well.
Benefits Of Using A Termite Spray Foam
As a convenient and affordable termite solution, spray foams have many benefits to homeowners. Take note that the following benefits can be achieved only through proper application.
➡️ It’s Ideal For Hard-To-Reach Areas
Foam sprays are suitable for treating wall voids and hidden spaces on your home. Although contained in an aerosol can, it comes with a small injector hose that lets you squirt the foam into crevices.
➡️ It Traps The Mites To The Foam
When you bombard the termite harborage with this product, the insect will be trapped into the foam. It prevents any escape, which makes it even more effective as a termite killer.
➡️ It Has A Long Residual Effect
Termite foams can have a residual effect of as long as six weeks per application. This means that the chemical will continue to kill termites upon contact even after the initial application is finished.
Precautions
Take note that foam sprays contain a high concentration of termiticides. So when applying it at home, make sure that you remember the following points:
➡️ Wear Proper Protective Gear
During application, there’s a chance that the foam will accidentally spray back into your direction. I always recommend that you wear protective gears when handling any termite solution.
Wear a mask, eye protection, and gloves to shield your body. If, in any case, your skin got in contact with the foam, rinse it right away with soap and clean water.
➡️ For Spot Treatment Only
Foam sprays are for spot treatments only. If you want to treat your whole attic, basement, and other parts of your home, you’re better off with professional extermination.
Spraying too much foam inside your home may lead to sickness of the occupants. These foams will release chemical fumes which are harmful to humans, especially in prolonged periods.
➡️ Shake Well In Between Sprays
Make sure that you shake the foam spray well before every application. This ensures that the termiticide is mixed properly inside the can.
➡️ Store It Properly
Avoid storing foam spray cans near heat sources and direct sunlight. Aerosol cans would explode when exposed to a very high temperature, which will harm any person or pet present.
It’s best to secure it in an elevated cabinet away from your kitchen or any area that children can’t access. Also, don’t remove or deface the label to prevent anyone from mistaking it as another chemical.
Most of all, never apply the termite resistant spray foam on food preparation areas.
➡️ Keep Children And Pets Away
After applying a foam spray, keep children and pets away from the area. This will prevent poisoning and any adverse reactions from the chemical.
What To Consider?
Before buying any foam spray, I recommend that you consider the following points first:
➡️ Active Ingredient
The active ingredient of the foam spray is responsible for killing the termites. The most common active ingredient on commercial foam sprays nowadays is Fipronil.
Fipronil is a widely used pesticide that’s efficient in killing insect pests like termites, bugs, rootworms, roaches, weevils, and more. This termiticide works upon contact. Once the termite gets physically exposed to Fipronil, it will start to target its central nervous system. Also, it binds with the nerve endings of pest, which leads to its death.
Another common termiticide found on spray foams is Imidacloprid. It’s a pesticide that mimics nicotine. Overall, it aims to kill wood-boring and sucking insects like termites, fleas, and other insects.
Imidacloprid disrupts the termites’ ability to send signals. Also, the nervous system will start to go haywire, which will result in the death of the unsuspecting pest.
Take note that these two active ingredients are highly potent. Avoid exposure to these chemicals at all costs.
➡️ Container
Termite foam sprays usually come in an aerosol can with an injector hose. This keeps the termiticides’ potency intact while making it easy to apply.
➡️ Safety (Humans And Pets)
Always look for foam sprays that are registered with the EPA. This guarantees that the product has been tested for household use.
Also, most foam sprays nowadays contain smaller amounts of termiticides, unlike the chemicals that professional exterminators use.
Aside from the formula, you should observe proper caution during application to limit any possible harm that the foam spray could bring.
➡️ Residual Effect
The residual effect of the foam spray speaks a lot about its efficiency. You surely want one that will keep working weeks after your initial application.
The termite foams I have reviewed below have residual effects of up to 6 weeks. This makes a single can last a long way. You can re-apply once the foam reaches the end of the residual period.
➡️ Ease Of Application
Foam sprays should be easy and not cumbersome to apply. Always check the injector and if it needs a separate actuator, ensure that it has the right compatibility.
How To Apply A Termite Spray Foam?
To ensure that the foam will reach and kill the termites, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use it on drywall and other wood areas.
Here are the steps, in a nutshell, courtesy of DoYourOwnPestControl:
Step 1. Drill Holes Into The Application Area
To gain access to the infestation area, you may need to drill holes into the drywall. If you plan to apply the product inside the wall void, you’ll need to drill holes. You can also use foam sprays into infested wood by drilling a pathway for the product.
Drill 18 inches away from the floor and in-between the drywall studs. If you’re applying it to wood foundations and beams, drill holes with 3 to 4-inch gaps. Once the drill bit reaches a spot where it doesn’t meet resistance, it’s a sign that you already found the termite gallery (infestation area). This is where you’re going to apply the foam.
Step 2. Apply The Foam
After drilling the holes, it’s time to spray the foam into the holes. Unlike pesticide sprays, you can use the thin hose to inject the foam into the drilled holes. Always follow the application instructions on the can.
Use your one hand to hold and push the spray and the other to hold the tip of the hose.
Moreover, wear gloves and protective gears when drilling and applying the foam.
Step 3. Let The Foam Spread
You should be patient when using this product. The foam will have to spread into the wall. In average, it will take up to 90 days for spray foams to kill a large portion of the colony. You may need to re-apply the foam once it reaches the end of the residual period.
List of TERMITE RESISTANT SPRAY FOAM PRODUCTS
1) Termidor Foam Termiticide/Insecticide
- Use Only with Whitmire Micro-Greens or BASF Approved actuator.
- Power Source Type: Manual
If you’re looking for the most potent spray foam for termites, I recommend the Termidor Foam Termiticide. It has Fipronil as an active ingredient and is ready to use straight from the box.
Once applied, the Termidor foam will spread rapidly into the wood voids, termite galleries, and harborages. With an expansion ratio of 30:1, every ounce of the product will convert into 1 quart of foam.
You can also spray this around the foundation of your home outdoors. Take note that if applied indoors, this should be sprayed into wood voids and beams.
Overall, it exceeded our expectations, considering that this is a commercially available solution. A few reapplications and I saw a reduction in swarmers and the colony.
Pros
✔️ Fast-spreading foam
✔️ A precise tip that prevents back flow
✔️ Fast-acting foam
Cons
❌ No return terms (not a biggie since it works like a charm against termites.
- TERMITE KILLER: Kills the termites you see, and the ones you don't see
- INSECT KILLER: Plus kills other wood-infesting insects including Carpenter Bees, Ants, Beetles, and more
- FOAM SPRAY: The foam expands at a 30:1 ratio to fill cracks
- EASY APPLICATION: Do it like the pros do- get the hard-to-reach areas with ease
Another foam spray that I recommend is the one from Bio Advanced. It’s more affordable than Termidor and can kill termites that come its way.
The Bio Advanced Termite and Carpenter Bee Killer Plus Foam has Imidacloprid as the active ingredient. It has a foam expansion ratio of 30:1. Aside from termites, this foam will also kill Carpenter Bees and other insects.
You can use this on your yard, foundations, decks, woodpiles, patios, and more. Like any foam pesticide, never apply it in the open inside your house.
This termite resistant spray foam has an immediate effect on termites. It’s best to re-apply the foam after a week to see the best results. What I really like about this foam spray is you can let it sit for a month and the spray won’t get clogged.
✔️ 30:1 expansion ratio for a lower price
✔️ Money-back guarantee
✔️ Also kills carpenter bees
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can Termites Eat Through Spray Foam?
A: Once the foam expands in the wall void, it will poison the termites. Foam insulations are a different thing. Some low-quality insulation foams are not potent enough so termites can eat through it.
Q2: How Long Does Termidor FOAM Last?
A: Upon the initial application, Termidor FOAM will have a residual effect of up to 6 weeks. You can re-apply after the six weeks to continue the protection for your property.
Q3: Can You Use Termite Spray Foam Inside The House?
A: Yes, you can use a termite spray foam inside your home, but only into wood voids. Never apply these products in the open, especially if you have kids and pets. Also, the fumes may spread into the air, which could lead to respiratory problems.
Q4: Does Termite Spray Foam Work For Large Infestations?
A: Termite spray foams you can purchase over the counter are ideal for spot treatments of small infestations. If your home experiences a widespread infestation, it’s best to call a professional extermination.
Final Words
A termite resistant spray foam is a great household solution against the pest. With the right application, it can eradicate a small colony. Even exterminators use it as a complementary treatment against termites located in hard-to-reach areas.
Do you have something to add in this post? Let me know!