Have you just seen a termite in your bathtub drain and are thinking why termites coming out of bathtub drain?
What are they doing in there and how did they get there?
While we typically associate termites with porches, decks, and other wooden structures, they can also take up residence in your bathtub drain.
But why would there be termites coming out of your bathroom drain?
You can use a spray such as raid Available On Amazon to kill the termites that are near the bath drain entrance, then there are a few more things you need to do which I will cover below.
Why Termites Coming Out of Bathtub Drain
Termites usually start crawling out of bathtub drains because they thrive on moisture and see drains and pipes as ample opportunities to get water.
Leaky pipes and moisture buildups in bathrooms can often lead to termite infestations in more serious situations.
Luckily, you can prevent termite infestations in bath drains by eliminating leaks and other sources of pooling water.
And you can get rid of them with the proper termite foam or liquid, sunlight exposure, and other methods we’ll explain in depth below. Keep reading to learn how to handle this pest situation.
Why Are Termites In Bathtub Drain?
There are several reasons you might have termites infesting your bathtub drain. Even though most people only expect to catch these pests taking over unprotected wood, they need water to survive.
So if they can find a leaky pipe, or drain that isn’t working well and pooling with water, they will likely take up residence there.
This is especially true if you tend to take long showers over a drain that doesn’t release very fast.
The water may build up in the tub and slowly drain out, creating the perfect environment for these creatures.
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How To Get Rid Of Termites Coming In Bathtub Drain
Luckily, there are some effective ways to end an infestation if it has already started in your tub.
1. Use Termite Products
Some people want to first jump to the “easy” solution – extermination. If you can get your hands on a product like Spectracide Termite Killing Foam, then you have a quick fix to your problem.
Foam products are even more effective than most liquid products because they get into drains and coat them rather than just running down. Foams also get into the sneaky nooks and crannies that termites might be hiding in.
2. Sun-Burn Them
On the other hand, if you’d rather not make use of a harsh pesticide, especially in your own bathroom, then you might consider letting the sun in. Termites do not like harsh sunshine, so if your bathroom has a window to let in natural light, draw the curtains and do so.
The problem with this method is that it only works some of the time – when the sun is shining or when the sun is capable of reaching the location of the infestation.
3. Trap Them
Another option is to make a trap with a wet cardboard box. These traps contain two things termites can’t resist, and if you put them in your bathtub, the mites can easily reach them, crawl in, and feed. Once you’ve collected them, get them out of your house and dispose of them.
Preventing Termites In Bathtub
To prevent future termites from taking over your bathtub, take the following measures:
- Assess any leaks in bathroom plumbing and fix them
- Fix any faulty drains
- Always keep your bathtub wiped clean and dry so water doesn’t pool up
- Allow the tub to fully dry out before using it again.
Can Termites Eat Through PVC Pipe?
The short answer is that some kinds of termites can eat through PVC pipes. Formosan termites (native in the continental US) can and will eat through PVC, along with many other materials they come into contact with.
Final Thoughts
Have you faced a bathroom termite infestation where the pests are crawling up out of the tub drain? If so, you likely have a moisture problem or plumbing leak that you need to fix.
Termites love pooled water and will flock to where they can find it in your home.
Use a termite spray, termite trap, or sunlight to get rid of the infestation and prevent it by minimizing bathroom moisture.
