Termite Treatment

Termite infestations cause millions of dollars in damage each year to timber-in-service. Termites are a problem in most parts of Australia but they are particularly active in warm, wet areas such as coastal towns, humid climates or even after periods of heavy rain.

Homeowners and contractors must realise newly built homes represent large investments, and the cheapest method of termite control may not be the best or most appropriate method for their specific site requirements.

About Termite Treatments

Structural cracking in brickwork In 1995 the type of termite treatment systems fitted in a building, mainly with concrete slabs, changed. The new style of termite treatment involved a change in concrete slab design so that the slab did not crack for the full thickness and restricted termite entry to either around drainage pipes or at slab edges.

New systems were installed at slab level and can only be included prior to brickwork. The initial systems included chemical, Termimesh or Granitguard. Later approvals have been given to Kordon and reticulation systems. There are ongoing changes as well as approval for additional products. Each system has different characteristics and requirements and full information on each product and installation is available from the manufacturer or installer.

Termite treatment systems require approval under Australian Standard 3660. 1-1995 and amended in 2000. It is also a requirement that a durable sticker is placed in the meter box to identify which system has been installed and when.

Types of Termite Treatments

There are several methods available to treat subterranean termites.

Chemical Termite Barriers

A chemical treatment is the most common treatment type available for subterranean termites. The goal of a subterranean termite chemical treatment is to establish a continuous termiticide barrier between the termite colony (usually in the soil) and timber in a building. This is done by placing termiticide in the soil around the foundation elements to provide a barrier preventing termites from entering the structure. Technicians trench the soil and inject termiticide beneath it. This creates a protective barrier around the property.

Termite Baiting System (In-Ground)

In-ground baiting systems are also becoming a popular method for treatment of subterranean termites. A subterranean termite baiting system involves placement of cellulose (wood material) bait stations at strategic locations around the perimeter of the home. Worker termites, which constantly forage for wood to feed their colony, locate the cellulose bait stations and leave special scent trails to summon their mates to the food source. The cellulose material in the bait station is then replaced with a chemical inhibitor, retarding the moulting process in termites and preventing them from growing. The carrier termites then bring the chemical back to the colony and--if everything goes well--spread the inhibitor throughout the remainder of the colony. Because of the growth inhibitor, the carrier and the rest of the colony will die.

Read our article: Which Termite Treatment Is The Most Effective

The termite treatment that will be used is dependant on various factors such as the type of building, whether there are flaws in the construction, the soil type on the property and the slope of the block, to name a few. Sometimes a combination of both treatment options is best to ensure full eradication and protection against termites. It is highly recommended that termite inspections are carried out by a qualified professional on a regular, ongoing basis, as early detection is key in minimising any potential damage to the property.

Termite Management Programs

For more information on termite management programs, industry changes and chemical termite barriers please take the time to read the advisory notes or feel free to contact us by phone to discuss further.

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