How to protect your home against termites

July 23, 2012

On average, every third property in Australia has termites. It’s a frightening statistic and proves that no home is completely safe from infestation. Termites cause an estimated  $780 million worth of damage in Australia every year – that’s more than fire, storms and floods combined. What’s even more frightening is that most insurance companies won’t cover termite damage, so if your home gets eaten out, you’re financially on your own.

There’s usually a time period of about five years from the time the termites enter a house to the tie of their detection and eradication. That’s five yours of unrestricted damage and one of the reasons why regular treatment is essential when it comes to protecting your biggest asset.

Generally, termites go about their business without you even knowing they’re there. If you’re lucky, you may notice some of the following warning signs, which require immediate attention by a qualified pers controller:

• A temporary swarm of winged insects around your home.
• Discarded wings near doors and windows.
• Mud tubes in the basement or crawl space.
• Hollow sounding wall studs.
• Bowing walls or floors.
• Pinholes appearing in architraves.
• Piles of fine dust on the floor.

Minimise the risk to your home.

It’s impossible to stop termites forever. However, you can make it harder for them to get into your home. By getting regular treatment from a qualified pest controller and following these simple rules,  you’ll maximise your chances of remaining termite free.

• Make sure that wood mulch used for landscaping is not in contact with your house.
• Divert sprinkler water away from exterior walls and foundations.
• Periodically inspect exterior wood door and window frames and mouldings for blistered paint and soft spots that may indicate termite damage.
• Promptly repair any water leaks and moisture problems in the roof, attic, walls, bathroom and sink areas.
• Keep siding materials (except masonry and brick) at least 6-8 inches above ground level. If siding materials extend to the ground, discuss the situation with your perst control company to determine the best way to prevent termites from entering the structure.
• Maintain gutters and downspouts, and keep splash blocks in place, to keep water from disturbing the termiticide protective barrier around the foundation.
• Keep any wood-based items, such as firewood, scrap timber, fencing and planter boxes from coming in contact with exterior siding. Do not store firewood in the garage.

To book a treatment by one of our service technicians or to arrange an obligation free assessment by one of our trained technical consultants, contact Envirotechnics now on 6461 5700

Termites