Experiencing a termite infestation in your home is not just stressful, it can be financially damaging too. Believe it or not, termite infestations can result in a property losing around 25% of its value. What’s more, a termite infestation isn’t always visible at first glance. In many cases, termites can be gnawing away at the timber in the building construction for years before you even spot any damage. In some cases, you’ll find that the damage is concealed inside your roof, walls, floors, or even behind the paint on your woodwork.
As a result, it’s wise to do a bit of research and ask yourself questions such as “what do termites look like in Australia?”. Knowing what to look for will always give you a head start when trying to tackle the problem. However, when it comes to any sort of pest, prevention is always better than cure. Here are some control measures you may want to consider investing in to stop these pests from becoming a larger issue:
Eliminate Any Food Sources
Termites love cellulose and create colonies in wood that contains it. Remove any sources of non-living wood from the area surrounding the home. Non-living wood sources include rotting landscape timber and stacks of firewood.
Reduce Moisture
In addition to food, termites need water to thrive. Moisture found in and around the foundation of your home provides an ideal environment for these pests. Do your best to eliminate sources of moisture by diverting water away from the building foundation through the use of guttering. You should also ensure the water pipes are in good condition and don’t contain any leaks.
Use Treatments Effectively
If you are in the process of building your home, then you should be sure to have the soil and building foundation treated to prevent termite infestations. Treatments are expensive, but they are worth the investment in the long term.
Be Mindful of Heavy Brush Around the Home
Any plant growth around your property’s foundation is potentially a source of moisture and cellulose, which provides a breeding ground for termites. Make an effort to remove any vegetation that is too close to the home by cutting back shrubs and trees.
Have Your Property Inspected By a Pest Control Specialist
It’s good practice to have your home inspected for termites every couple of years. Even if you think you know what to look for, a professional can do a better job. Termites can get in from a variety of angles, including through narrow cracks or the property foundations. A pest control specialist will be able to tell you if there is an issue or not, which should provide some peace of mind.
By taking a few simple steps, it is possible to protect your property and limit the risk of an infestation. However, if you spot signs of a potential termite infestation, then it is important to act fast to prevent the problem from being exacerbated. It is always better to have a professional tackle the issue as home treatments aren’t always effective and in some instances, can be quite dangerous.