The Sunshine Coast is a hotspot for termite activity because of its warm, humid climate. Every home should have a termite inspection performed at least yearly and have termite control methods in place. Termite control can be confusing, so the experts at Radar Pest Control wanted to take a few minutes to break down some of the many options available.
Termite Inspections
Without a doubt, one of the most crucial steps in termite control is to get a professional termite inspection. During the inspection, they will assess high risk areas, check all accessible timber, and correctly identify the species of termite if they are found. This is an important step in being able to provide an effective treatment plan. As mentioned above, yearly inspections are recommended, but some areas should have them done as often as every 3-6 months based on risk factors.
Baiting and Monitoring
Baits are often the best way to exterminate a termite colony. Bait stations consist of containers of cellulose materials like timber, paper, cellulose gel etc. These bait stations can either be placed in the ground or above the ground. In-ground bait stations are particularly effective when the exact location of the infestation is not known. An insect growth regulator (IGR) is added to the bait stations. IGR’s work to stop the moulting process that is required in order for termites to grow. IGR’s are slow-acting, so there is time to spread it throughout the colony. Worker termites will gather up the bait, return to the nest, and feed it to the queen and the other termites. Slowly, the colony will begin to collapse as the termites all die. Bait stations need to be monitored and refilled when needed.
Chemical Barriers
A chemical termite barrier attempts to isolate a building from termites by spraying an unbroken perimeter of liquid termiticide in the soil around the outside of the structure. The chemical used can either be a repellent form that keeps the termites from crossing the boundary or a non-repellent chemical, which allows the termites to cross the barrier without detecting the chemical in the hopes that the worker termites will pass through the chemical and contaminate other colony members. Chemical barriers only work if there is an uninterrupted perimeter, so it may involve trenching around foundations, drilling holes in cement or concrete to inject chemicals, and other labor-intensive tasks. Expertise, professional equipment, and professional products are extremely important for the success of the barrier.
Physical Barriers
Physical barriers are most effective and least expensive when they are installed during the construction of a home. Adding physical barriers to a pre-existing home can be very difficult and expensive. Physical barriers try to isolate your home from potential termites by creating a barrier around or underneath the foundation. There are many different types of materials that can be used for physical barriers including: stainless steel mesh, very specifically sized granite rocks, granular glass, metal sheeting, and metal ant caps for stumps and piers. While technically termites can still find their way into a home with a physical barrier, it forces them to have to show themselves above ground, which makes it easier to notice potential problems early. A physical barrier can be combined with other methods to make it particularly effective.
Ways to Reduce Your Termite Risk
Along the Sunshine Coast, there is always going to be risk for termites, but you can help reduce it by following some of these tips:
- Use non-timber materials like concrete, masonry, and steel during construction
- Control moisture around your home by ensuring proper drainage, keeping gutters clean, fixing leaky pipes and faucets, and using a dehumidifier
- Use a termite-resistant timber during construction like red gum or white cypress pine
- Treat timber with copper, chromium, and arsenic (CCA)
- Make sure that your subfloors are well-ventilated and dry
- Make sure that the soil does not come into contact with timbers
- Do not store wood on the ground
Sunshine Coast Termite Control
If you are in need of a termite inspection or termite treatment, give the experts at Radar Pest Control a call. Our excellent service, friendly staff, and quality products will win your loyalty. From Nambour to Buderim and through the Sunshine Coast, trust Radar Pest Control to get the job done right. Contact us today.