Termidor (fipronil) eliminates entire subterranean termite colonies — not just the foragers you can see. Its unique Transfer Effect is the reason pest control professionals rank it as the gold standard for subterranean termite control.
Why Subterranean Termites Are Different
Subterranean termites are the most destructive termite species in North America, causing an estimated $5 billion in structural damage annually. Unlike drywood termites that live inside the wood they eat, subterranean termites live underground in massive soil-based colonies — sometimes containing millions of individuals — and travel to wood through mud tubes.
This underground lifestyle makes them invisible until significant damage has already occurred. And it makes them immune to treatments that only address the wood above ground.
Termidor (fipronil) is the only product specifically designed to eliminate subterranean termite colonies at the soil level — where they live.
See Termidor installation photos in our photo gallery.
How Termidor Works: The Transfer Effect
Termidor is different from other soil treatments because of its "Transfer Effect." Here's how it works:
1. Continuous soil barrier — Termidor is applied as a liquid in a continuous trench around your foundation, creating an undetectable treated zone
2. Contact doesn't kill immediately — Unlike repellent chemicals that termites detect and avoid, Termidor is non-repellent. Termites walk through it without knowing it's there
3. Transfer to the colony — Affected termites return to the colony and transfer Termidor to nest mates through grooming and food sharing
4. Colony elimination — Over 3 months, the Transfer Effect spreads throughout the colony, eliminating it entirely — not just the foragers
This is why Termidor consistently achieves complete colony elimination in treated properties — not just temporary suppression of visible forager activity.
Signs You Need a Termidor Treatment
Call us immediately if you observe:
- Mud tubes on foundation walls, crawl space piers, or garage walls
- Termite swarmers (winged termites) emerging from soil or wall joints in spring
- Soft or hollow floors near the foundation or at moisture-prone areas
- Damaged wood near plumbing penetrations or crawl space
- Frass that appears different from drywood termite pellets — more paste-like
The Termidor Installation Process
Inspection
We confirm subterranean termite species and map all active mud tube and entry locations. Termidor is specific to subterranean termites and is not appropriate for drywood termite species.
Trenching
A trench is dug around the entire foundation perimeter — typically 6 inches wide and 6 inches deep. We trench continuously, with no gaps, to ensure a complete barrier.
Drilling (Slabs)
Where concrete slabs cover the soil at the foundation, we drill through the concrete at 12-inch intervals and inject Termidor below the slab.
Application
Termidor is applied at EPA-labeled rates — 4 gallons of diluted product per 10 linear feet of trench. The product is distributed throughout the trench for thorough soil saturation.
Backfilling
Trenches are backfilled with treated soil. Concrete drill holes are patched with hydraulic cement.
Perimeter Verification
We walk the entire perimeter to verify a continuous, gap-free barrier around the structure.
Termidor's Soil Residual: Long-Lasting Protection
Independent studies demonstrate Termidor remains active in soil for 10+ years under typical conditions. This long soil half-life means a single properly applied treatment protects your home for years without re-application.
Termidor vs. Alternative Soil Treatments
| Treatment | Colony Elimination | Repellent | Soil Life |
|---|---|---|---|
| Termidor (Fipronil) | ✓ Transfer Effect | Non-repellent | 10+ years |
| Bifenthrin | Foragers only | Repellent | 3–5 years |
| Imidacloprid | Partial | Non-repellent | 3–7 years |
| Borate Bait | Partial | Non-repellent | Requires maintenance |
Cost and Warranty
Termidor treatment is priced by linear footage of foundation treated. Most Southern California homes range from $900–$2,500 depending on size and complexity. We offer a 1-year warranty with annual renewal options.
Free Subterranean Termite Inspection
If you've found mud tubes or suspect subterranean termite activity, contact us immediately. Early treatment prevents structural damage that can cost tens of thousands to repair. We serve all of Orange County, Los Angeles County, Inland Empire, and Riverside County. CA License #PR7791.