Owning a home, especially a custom-built one, is a source of immense pride. You’ve poured your heart and soul into creating a space that reflects your unique style and needs. But what happens when uninvited guests threaten the very foundation of your dream home? Termites, those silent destroyers, can wreak havoc on your property, causing significant damage before you even realize they’re there.
At Built Green Custom Homes, we understand the importance of safeguarding your investment. That’s why we highly recommend incorporating BoraCare® into your termite protection strategy. BoraCare is a revolutionary termite treatment product that offers a unique combination of user-friendliness, environmental responsibility, and long-lasting effectiveness.
What is BoraCare?
BoraCare is a wood preservative that acts as both a termiticide and an insecticide. The active ingredient in BoraCare is disodium octaborate tetrahydrate (DOT), a natural form of boron. Boron is an essential element for plant growth, but it’s also toxic to termites and other wood-destroying insects. When BoraCare is applied to wood, it penetrates deeply and bonds with the wood fibers, killing pests by disrupting their digestive system. This creates a long-lasting barrier that kills termites and other pests as they try to feed on the treated wood.
Why We Recommend BoraCare
There are several reasons why BoraCare stands out as a preferred termite treatment option:
- User-Friendly: Unlike some other termite treatments, BoraCare is a water-based product that is relatively safe to handle and use around your home. It has a low odor and won’t leave behind any harmful fumes. This makes it a great option for owner-builders who want to take an active role in protecting their property.
- Environmentally-Friendly: BoraCare is a low-toxicity product that is classified by the EPA as a reduced-risk pesticide. This means it poses minimal risk to people, pets, and the environment. It’s also non-repellent to termites, so they don’t avoid the treated area, ensuring effective elimination.
- Long-Lasting Protection: BoraCare provides long-term protection against termites and other wood-destroying insects. This provides peace of mind knowing your home is shielded from potential termite damage for an extended period.
- Versatility: BoraCare is a versatile product that can be used in various applications. It can be applied to new construction projects during the framing stage or used as a localized treatment for existing termite infestations. Additionally, BoraCare can be used as a preventative measure to protect crawl spaces, attics, and other areas susceptible to termite activity.
Environmentally Conscious Termite Control
BoraCare isn’t just user-friendly; it’s also an environmentally conscious choice for termite control. Here’s why:
- Low Toxicity: BoraCare is, again, a low-toxicity product that is safe for use around people and pets when used according to the label directions. This is a significant advantage over traditional termite treatments that may contain harsh chemicals.
- Minimal Environmental Impact: DOT, the active ingredient in BoraCare, is a naturally occurring mineral found in soil and seawater. It breaks down readily in the environment and doesn’t pose a threat to wildlife or contaminate groundwater.
The BoraCare Advantage: Stand Alone or with Professional Treatment?
The beauty of BoraCare lies in its versatility. Here’s how it can be used in your termite protection strategy:
- DIY Preventative Treatment: For owner-builders looking for a proactive approach, BoraCare can be used as a preventative measure during the construction phase of your custom home. By treating lumber after framing, once the house is dried-in, and applying BoraCare to susceptible areas like crawl spaces, you can significantly reduce the risk of future termite problems.
- Complementing Professional Treatment: Even if you plan on hiring a professional pest control company for termite control, BoraCare can still be a valuable tool. Owner-builders may use BoraCare in conjunction with professional perimeter treatment methods to create a multi-layered defense against termites.
When Is Professional Treatment Best?
BoraCare’s user-friendly nature makes it a viable option for homeowners who are comfortable with DIY projects. However, it’s important to note that the effectiveness of any termite treatment depends on proper application techniques and a thorough understanding of termite behavior.
For those dealing with an existing infestation, partnering with a professional pest control company is highly recommended. These professionals can:
- Inspect your property: A thorough inspection is crucial to identify the type of termite infestation and determine the appropriate treatment plan.
- Develop a customized treatment strategy: Professionals can create a targeted approach that addresses the specific needs of your property, maximizing the effectiveness of BoraCare or other treatments.
- Ensure proper application: Proper mixing ratios and application techniques are essential for optimal results. Professionals have the experience and equipment to ensure BoraCare is applied correctly and reaches all targeted areas.
- Monitor your home: Regular monitoring is key to preventing future termite problems. Professionals can provide ongoing monitoring services to ensure your home remains protected.
Built Green Custom Homes: Your Partner in Building and Protecting Your Dream
When building a custom dream home from scratch, Built Green Custom Homes is here to help. We understand the importance of using sustainable and effective solutions to protect your property.
If you’re considering using BoraCare for your termite treatment needs, we highly recommend consulting with a professional to discuss the best approach for your specific situation. Our team can connect you with qualified pest control companies experienced in BoraCare application or direct you to online resources and webinars to begin your education on the product.
Together, we can ensure your home remains a place of comfort and security for you and your family for years to come.
