Insuring your home and property is an obvious step that nearly all new homeowners take. Most people don’t think twice about making sure that their most valuable processions are protected against possible dangers like fire, water damage, and theft. Insurance allows you to rest easy, knowing that in a tragic, worst-case scenario, you won’t have to take a huge financial loss.
Even with all the money that is spent on home and content insurance, homeowners fail to realize that their home is still not protected from one of Australia’s greatest household dangers. That danger is termites. Termites are so common in Australia that homeowner’s insurance rarely covers the damage caused by these destructive pests. So, what can wise homeowners due to mitigate the risks and costs associated with termites?
Termites may seem daunting, but there are plenty of steps that can be taken to prevent them. Just like you buy insurance to protect against a possible fire, termite barriers, regular termite inspections, bait stations, and professional monitoring and treatment can protect your home from termites.
There are several types of termite barriers available. A physical barrier system consists of layers of wide sheets that are placed underneath the slab of your home or around the perimeter, much like a moisture barrier. These sheets are used with new construction and are laid before the slab is poured to prevent termites from being able to access the home.
There are also chemical barrier treatments to control termites. The two main forms are non-repellent and repellent. Non-repellent treatments can be used as a solution when termites are already present. This form of chemical treatment eliminates a termite colony without them even being aware. As the termites walk through the chemical, they will spread it through the nest, killing the queen and destroying the colony. Repellent barriers are used if no termites are present. Repellents provide long-lasting protection by deterring and keeping termites away from the home for years at a time. These are essentially soil treatments that go around the perimeter of the home or under concrete floors. The benefit of chemical barriers is that they can be implemented at any time.
Another form of termite control may involve the use of bait stations. The stations are placed in the ground or drilled into the cement. Radar Pest Control uses a chemical-free system called Exterra that is safe for your family and pets. Even if all other measures have been taken, yearly termite inspections are also crucial in making sure that your home continues to be protected year after year.
The next time you think about insurance for your home, remember to also protect your home from termites by investing in termite inspections and barrier treatments. Radar Pest Control is your Sunshine Coast termite expert. We have the experience and expertise necessary to ensure that your most valuable possessions are safe and protected.