It’s true that termites are a big problem in Queensland, but there are a number of ways you can protect your home from termites no matter what stage of the building process you’re at.
Existing Homes
Your home may already have some form of termite protection in its foundations or structure, but you may not know for sure. All you can do in this case is apply an external physical or chemical termite treatment zone. This will stop them entering and destroying your home if they haven’t already.
A physical treatment zone is a layer of chemically treated webbing which is laid around the perimeter of your home and acts as a physical block to termites. A chemical treatment zone involves injecting a foam or liquid around the entire perimeter of your home. This may include drilling holes in concrete foundations and patios close to entryways.
To discourage termites, you can also keep garden beds away from the house. Keep your property tidy to dissuade termites from building nests. Yearly termite inspections are a must, and six monthly if you live in a termite prone area or near the bush.
Pre-construction Termite Protection
Termite protection should always be a part of the design and construction of your new home. It’s also a huge selling point should you wish to move on in the future. A physical termite treatment zone can be incorporated into your new home to provide long lasting termite control.
Think about installing a suspended floor with a crawl space underneath for termite inspections. Being able to detect termites before significant damage occurs will reduce any destruction and the cost of the repair bill. Tin ant caps on top of piers or stumps are also treatment options you should consider. Other options include termite management systems consisting of continuous metal strips that can be set into the foundation walls protruding into the crawl space.
Steel frames are less prone to termite damage than wooden ones, though you can get termite-resistant wood that can prove effective. Chemically treating the soil before concrete slabs are poured can prevent a subterranean termite infestation if the slab forms small cracks.
With any kind of physical treatment zone, you need to ensure it is intact before the bricks and mortar go up. After that, you are reliant on yearly inspections the same as an existing build.
Home Extensions
Be careful if you’re building a home extension. Often these are overlooked when it comes to termite protection. However, these can provide a way for termites to breach an existing physical treatment zone by entering via porches, stairs, landings and posts.
Incorporating a termite management system into the construction of the extension will make termites easier to detect. Including open and well-ventilated sub-flooring for your extension enables crawl access. It will also provide good surface drainage that will keep the area dry.
Schedule regular inspections at least every 12 months, so if you do have a visitation by termites they can be dealt with swiftly.
The White Ant Man can give you advice on what kind of termite management system is best for your new home, existing home or your extension, as well as inspecting and treating any current termite problems. Give us a call today on (07) 3349 8572.
