Termite Problem? Stop It Early.
Content
- Baits & Detection Systems
- Soil & Perimeter Treatments
- Spot Treatments: Foam
- When to Get Professional Help
- Frequently Asked Questions
Subterranean termites are common across Los Angeles and can quietly damage structural wood before you see obvious signs. Use the right mix of detection, perimeter protection, and targeted treatments to protect your home. Below are expert-reviewed products we recommend for prevention and light activity—plus when to call a pro.
Need a pro now? Schedule a free, same-day inspection to confirm activity and get a guaranteed plan.
Baits & Detection Systems
Spectracide Terminate Detection & Killing Stakes (15-count)
What it is & how it works: DIY stakes you install 2–3 feet from your home and no more than 10 feet apart. A pop-up indicator shows activity; the bait inside kills foraging termites.
Why we like it: Installs in minutes, includes the locator shields and tool, and gives homeowners a simple way to monitor and reduce activity around decks, patios, and landscaping.
Our Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.4/5
Cost: ~$54 per 15-pack
Ease of use: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
Pros: Two-in-one monitor + bait, clear activity indicator, fast setup, cost effective
Cons: Stakes need placement every 10 feet for (hassle for larger yards)
Best for: Perimeter monitoring in soil beds and moist areas
Advance Termite Bait Monitoring Stations (TBS) – 10 Stations
What it is & how it works: Professional-grade monitoring stations used to detect activity (no termiticide in this kit). After you confirm termites, swap in a compatible bait cartridge to eliminate the colony.
Why we like it: Bigger stations are found faster and more often, giving quick discovery with minimal disturbance to landscaping.
Our Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.5/5
Cost: ~$168 for 10 stations
Ease of use: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3/5 (requires proper spacing and periodic checks) Pros: Proven pro system, scalable around the whole property
Cons: Detection only until you add bait cartridges; digging required
Best for: Long-term monitoring programs around the foundation
Soil & Perimeter Treatments
BioAdvanced Termite Killer Granules
What it is & how it works: Ready-to-spread granules with imidacloprid for a protective band around foundations, posts, and wood piles. Just sprinkle, water in, and let it bind to soil.
Why we like it: Fast application, no mixing, and coverage that matches many LA-area lot perimeters.
Our Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.5/5
Cost: ~$50 (9 lb, ~200 linear ft)
Ease of use: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
Pros: Quick perimeter defense, built-in spout, no mixing
Cons: Needs even continuous band; soil disruption reduces effectiveness
Most Effective for: Perimeter around slabs, crawl spaces, posts, fence lines
Spot Treatments: Foam
BioAdvanced Termite & Carpenter Bee Killer Plus, Foam (18 oz)
What it is & how it works: Expanding foam with imidacloprid that fills cracks, wall voids, and galleries at a 30:1 expansion ratio.
Why we like it: Non-staining, indoor/outdoor use, and perfect for localized activity you can access.
Our Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4.3/5 Cost: ~$14 per can Ease of use: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 Pros: Reaches voids and galleries, easy targeted treatment Cons: Spot-only—won’t replace a full perimeter or bait program Best for: Known galleries, wall voids, door frames, and small localized issues
When to Get Professional Help
Call a licensed pro if you see mud tubes, hollow-sounding wood, swarmers or discarded wings, or if DIY products don’t reduce signs within 7–10 days. Also call if activity is near structural framing, you’re in escrow/HOA review, or you want a transferable warranty. Pros confirm species, design a bait or liquid program, seal entry points, and provide warrantied follow-ups.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need both baits and perimeter treatment?
For prevention, either can help. For active issues, use both: baits to eliminate colonies and soil treatments to protect the structure. - How far apart should stakes be placed?
Every 10 feet and 2–3 feet from the foundation; add more in moist or high-risk areas. - How soon will I see results?
Foam acts immediately on contacted termites. Baits work as termites feed and share the active; full results take weeks. - Is foam safe indoors?
Use as directed; the labeled foam is designed for indoor and outdoor use and is non-staining when applied correctly. - Not sure if it’s termites or carpenter ants?
Schedule a free inspection to confirm species and get the right plan.