When to Replace Termite Products (Before They Stop Working)

Termite treatments aren’t forever. While they might seem like a “set-it-and-forget-it” solution, the reality is that all termite control products have a lifespan. Knowing when to replace them is the key to avoiding costly damage and keeping your home protected.

Let’s break down when and why it’s time to replace your termite defenses.

1. Understand the Type of Treatment You Have

There are several types of termite treatments, and each has its own shelf life:

• Liquid Barrier Treatments These are applied around your home’s foundation and typically last 5 to 10 years, depending on soil conditions, product brand, and weather exposure.
  

• Wood Treatments These involve treating wood directly with products like borate. They can last up to 10 years but may need touch-ups if new wood is exposed or if damage reappears.
  

• Baiting Systems These systems lure termites into bait stations filled with slow-acting poison. Newer systems can remain active for up to 10 years, but regular inspection is still required to ensure they're effective.
  

2. Know the Warning Signs

Even if you’re within the “expected lifespan” of your termite treatment, it might not be doing its job. Here are red flags to watch for:

• Mud tubes on walls or foundation

• Winged termites (swarmers) around windows or lights

• Hollow-sounding or soft wood

• Droppings or wood dust near baseboards

If you notice any of these signs, your termite protection may already be compromised—and it’s time to act.

3. General Replacement Timeline

Here’s a quick guideline to help you assess when replacement might be due:

Treatment Type	Typical Lifespan	Inspection Frequency
Liquid Barrier	5–10 years	Once per year
Wood Treatment	Up to 10 years	Every 2–3 years
Bait Stations	1–10 years (varies)	Every 6–12 months

Environmental factors like heavy rain, soil shifts, and nearby infestations can shorten the lifespan of any treatment.

4. When It’s Time to Replace

You should seriously consider replacing or retreating your termite solution if:

• Your current treatment is over 7–8 years old

• You’ve never had a professional inspection

• You've remodeled or added onto your home

• You’re in a high-risk area with surrounding infestations

• Any visual signs of termite activity have appeared

Even if everything looks fine, treatments wear down over time—especially when exposed to changing soil conditions, moisture, and landscaping changes.

5. Tips for Long-Term Termite Protection

• Schedule annual termite inspections, even if you have a treatment in place.

• Maintain any baiting systems you’ve installed and replace old or damaged stations.

• Combine methods when possible—liquid barriers plus bait stations provide strong layered protection.

• Keep landscaping trimmed and moisture away from your foundation to support the effectiveness of any treatment.
  

Final Thoughts

Just like a roof or a water heater, termite protection has an expiration date. Replacing outdated or ineffective products before termites strike can save you thousands in structural repairs—not to mention a lot of stress.

If you’re unsure about the status of your current protection, now’s the time to schedule an inspection or talk to a termite expert. Prevention is always cheaper than repairs.

Attack Pest Control specializes in termite-only services and has over 40 years of experience in Southern California. When it comes to protecting your home, you want specialists who know termites inside and out.

Let’s make sure your protection is still working—before termites get the chance.