Pest control vs termite treatment
General pest control vs specialized termite treatment. Compare methods, costs, and when you need each service.
General pest control targets common household invaders — ants, roaches, spiders, mice, and wasps — using sprays, baits, traps, and exclusion methods. A quarterly service plan typically costs $100–$300 per visit. Termite treatment is a specialized service that addresses subterranean or drywood termites using liquid barrier treatments ($3–$16 per linear foot), bait stations ($8–$12 per station), or whole-structure fumigation ($1,200–$2,500 for an average home). Termites cause an estimated $5 billion in property damage annually in the U.S. alone, so early detection and professional treatment are critical. Most general pest control plans do not include termite coverage — it requires a separate inspection and contract.
Pest Control vs Termite Treatment
| Feature | Pest Control | Termite Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| Best for | Choose general pest control for routine prevention and treatment of common household pests like ants, roaches, spiders, and rodents — a quarterly plan keeps your home protected year-round. | Choose termite treatment when you notice mud tubes on foundation walls, hollow-sounding wood, discarded wings near windows, or if a termite inspection reveals an active colony — delay risks serious structural damage. |
Call a pest control when…
Choose general pest control for routine prevention and treatment of common household pests like ants, roaches, spiders, and rodents — a quarterly plan keeps your home protected year-round.
Call a termite treatment when…
Choose termite treatment when you notice mud tubes on foundation walls, hollow-sounding wood, discarded wings near windows, or if a termite inspection reveals an active colony — delay risks serious structural damage.