re: Which termite prevention option should I choose?

quote:

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I am ignorant when it comes to this stuff, so I'd like to see which on of these options you would choose for a pier and beam home.

Quote 1: Chemical- Trench and treat all piers and plumbing lines. Drill and treat piers as needed using Termidor. 5 year retreatment. Semi-Annual inspections.

Quote 2: Bait- Install Sentricon bait system around house and carport. Spot treat underneath home with Termidor. Never needs retreatment. Semi-Annual inspections.

Those are direct quotes from the proposal. I was advised that either one of these options would be equally effective for my situation. Pricing is similar. The bait quote would cost me about $4 more per month over a 5-year period. So my question isn't about cost, but the method employed. I just want to make sure to choose wisely on my first home.

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Whichever option you choose, make sure you read the contracts in full and all the fine print before signing anything. Treating the home is only half of the protection. You want to make sure that the company is going to repair damage if you get an infestation in the future, especially for Formosan termites. Last thing you want is a Formosan infestation costing $10,000+ and footing the bill yourself. Some companies have vague terms and conditions that can deny you a claim. The best protection is expensive, but worth it.