How much will your termite control services cost?

Columbus, OH 43215

Termite treatments cost$380 - $1,268

National average fixed price

Most common low price:$380
Most common high price:$1,268

How much does it cost to treat termites?

By Kristy Snyder

Last updated Mon, Jul 07

The national average cost of termite treatment ranges from around $380-$1,268, and most people pay around $694, according to Thumbtack data. These are average costs for a single treatment, and recurring treatments will represent an additional cost. Additionally, termite exterminator costs vary depending on several factors, including where you live, the type of treatment you select, and your home's size.

Termite exterminator cost

National average cost	$694
Average low-end cost	$380
Average high-end cost	$1,268

Source: Thumbtack

While these are the national average costs of termite extermination, pest control companies in your local area may charge something different. For the most accurate costs, your best bet is to get free estimates from local pros.

In the meantime, keep reading to learn about other factors that can impact the costs of termite treatment.

Termite exterminator cost
Termite treatment cost breakdown
Cost to DIY vs. hiring a termite exterminator
Is termite prevention worth the money?
Get free quotes for termite control treatments
FAQs.

Termite treatment cost breakdown

To better understand the costs of termite treatment, we've broken down the most common factors that affect the price. Use this to learn more about what you can expect to pay.

Type of treatment

There are many different ways to approach a termite problem, including:

Bait station. Bait treatment involves setting up a low dose of insecticide in a piece of wood or other attractive material to lure in termites. Termites feed on this poisoned substance and then bring it back to their colony, so it eventually kills them all.
Heat treatment. This chemical-free way of killing termites uses dry heat to kill termites in just a few hours.
Fumigation. To treat your entire home, you might choose fumigation. This involves enclosing it in a gas-proof enclosure and exposing it to sulfuryl fluoride gas. This is typically the most expensive way to treat termites.

Chat with your exterminator about the treatments they offer, how much they cost, and which one would be best to address your infestation.

Related: How to get rid of termites.

Type of termite

Your costs can also vary depending on the type of termite. The three main kinds of termites are dry wood, damp wood, and subterranean termites. Here's a quick overview of each type:

Drywood termites. As the name suggests, drywood termites don't require much moisture and prefer structural wood in places like attics, fences, utility poles, and more. But because they make noise, homeowners usually find and treat them sooner, leading to less damage.
Dampwood termites. Dampwood termites are less destructive than drywood termites, as they typically feast on moist wood that's touching the ground. As long as you keep your home dry, these termites shouldn't cause much interior damage.
Subterranean termites. These are typically the most costly termites to deal with. They build hard-to-reach underground nests and enter your home through minuscule cracks to cause damage.

Amount of damage

The more damage termites have caused to your home (floors, walls, deck, etc.), the more expensive it'll be to repair. You may also have to pay more to exterminate them. Signs of termites include damaged wood (especially mud tubes), droppings, bubbling paint, and discarded wings.

If you see these throughout your home, including in crawl spaces, attics, or basements, you might need a more expensive fumigation treatment. However, if the damage is limited to one area or just external components, less expensive treatments might be enough to kill the termite colony.

Size and style of your home

The size and construction of a property play a crucial role in the cost of termite extermination. Larger structures may require more extensive treatment applications. The expansive surface area increases the likelihood of termites finding entry points, necessitating a more thorough and potentially costly treatment approach.

The complexity of construction can also affect the accessibility and ease of treatment. Homes with intricate designs, multiple levels, or unconventional construction materials may pose challenges for pest control professionals. Ensuring that the treatment reaches all potential hiding spots and entry points becomes more labor-intensive in such cases, potentially driving up the overall cost.

Location

The prevalence of termites varies significantly based on geographic location, with certain regions experiencing higher levels of termite activity than others. Termite treatment costs in these areas may be higher because of the increased demand for services.

For example, states like Florida, Georgia, Alabama, and Louisiana are known for their warm and humid climates — which create ideal conditions for subterranean termites. On the other hand, Arizona and parts of California face challenges from both subterranean and drywood termites due to their arid climates.

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Cost to DIY vs. hiring a termite exterminator

There are plenty of trade-offs between DIY and professional termite treatments. While DIY options may offer immediate cost savings, ineffective treatment could lead to greater expenses in the long run. Professional services, although initially pricier, provide expertise and efficiency — minimizing the chances of future infestations.

Here are some things to keep in mind when deciding between trying DIY termite treatments and hiring a pro:

Upfront cost savings: DIY treatments are more affordable as homeowners purchase over-the-counter products instead of professional services.
Effectiveness: However, DIY treatments may not be as effective as professional-grade solutions, risking incomplete eradication and potential future infestations.
Scheduling dependencies: Homeowners may need to coordinate with the professional's schedule, potentially causing delays.
Flexibility: Homeowners have the flexibility to choose when and how to apply treatments if they go the DIY route.
Time-consuming: Getting rid of termites on your own requires more time and effort.
Expertise: Termite exterminators and pest control professionals bring specialized knowledge and experience, ensuring a more targeted and effective treatment.
Guarantees and warranties: Many professional services offer guarantees or warranties, providing assurance and potential follow-up treatments if needed.

Is termite prevention worth the money?

You can avoid a costly termite infestation by taking some preventative steps. For example, many companies can inspect your home for termites and apply a liquid termiticide treatment. This is a liquid that the exterminator applies to the soil surrounding your home, creating a barrier that termites can't cross.

But is it worth it to spend money on professional services for prevention?

Whether or not it's worth it to shell out money for termite prevention really depends on a few things. For example, consider:

Your home's history with termites: Have termites invaded your home in the past? If so, there's a good chance it might happen again if you skip out on prevention treatments.
Your climate and location: If you're in an area where termites practically have a vacation home, investing in prevention is like giving your home an insurance policy against these tiny invaders. If you live in an area where termites aren't the norm, the cost-benefit scale might tip the other way. In these cases, you could adopt a wait-and-see approach.
You're making big changes to your home: It's an especially smart move to consider termite prevention during construction or renovations. You can use termite-resistant materials and treatments right from the start.
You're selling your home: If you're putting your home on the market, make sure that it's termite-free.

Consider these points carefully before making your final decision.

Get free quotes for termite control treatments

Are you ready to tackle those termites but not sure where to start? Take the stress out of it by getting free cost estimates from local termite control companies.

Don't let termites get the upper hand — empower yourself with the right information and the right professionals. Download the Thumbtack app today, and take the first step toward a termite-free home.

FAQs.

Does homeowners insurance cover termite damage?

Homeowners insurance typically does not cover termite damage. That's because insurance companies see termites as a preventable condition. There are several maintenance tasks you should complete to prevent termites (and other pests) from damaging your home.

So, in many cases, it's cheaper to handle termites before they're a problem rather than dealing with their aftermath.

How long before termites destroy a house?

Termites won't destroy a house overnight. How long it takes them to do serious damage varies based on factors like colony size and environmental conditions.

In severe infestations, structural harm can occur within a few years. Smaller colonies may take longer to cause noticeable damage.

Early detection and prompt action are crucial to mitigating the impact and keeping your home safe and sound.

How long does it take to get rid of termites?

The timeframe for termite eradication depends on the treatment method and the extent of infestation. While some treatments provide quick results, others may require weeks or even months for full effectiveness.

For example, fumigation-treated termites can take up to a week to die. Sprays can start killing termites in a day or two, while bait traps can take a couple of months to fully eradicate a colony.

Can a termite-infested house be saved?

Yes, a termite-infested house can often be saved through timely and appropriate treatment. Professional pest control treatments can effectively eliminate termites and prevent further damage.

As soon as you notice issues, perform termite damage repairs to reduce structural problems with your home. This might include adding new wooden supports and sealing up any cracks or holes in the foundation.

How often should you spray your house for termites?

How often you spray your home depends on the type of termite treatment you have. For example, if you do a DIY treatment, some products say they'll protect your home for only a year, meaning you'd have to spray again after that. Some professionals claim their treatments will last up to 10 years, but you'll want to keep an eye out for signs of termites far before then.

You may even have a warranty from your company if termites return before a certain time. For example, in Arizona, pest control companies have to treat termite reoccurrences for up to three years.

Can I take care of termites myself?

Yes, it's possible to use DIY sprays and other treatments. Just keep in mind that these usually aren't as potent as solutions from professionals. Also, improper application can lead to incomplete eradication.

For a more reliable and comprehensive solution, we recommend consulting with a pest control professional, especially for severe infestations.

What are the signs of termites in your house?

Signs of a termite infestation include:

Mud tubes: Shelter tubes built along walls or foundations.
Discarded wings: After swarming, termites shed wings.
Hollow-sounding wood" Infested wood may sound hollow when tapped.
Frass: Piles of termite droppings resembling sawdust.
Damaged wood: Soft or crumbling wood can indicate termite activity.

*A note about project costs featured in this article: Figures represent national average cost estimates using data provided by Thumbtack pros and additional research. These figures are provided for educational purposes only and are subject to change at any time due to various factors. Details about your specific project and local rates can impact costs.

How do we know these prices?

Millions of people ask Thumbtack for help with their projects every year. We track the estimates they get from local professionals, conduct our own research and then we share those prices with you. The prices reflected in the article above are for informational purposes only and are subject to change at any time. Contact a professional near you to receive a personalized cost estimate for your project.

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