Australia is notorious for its unique and sometimes scary wildlife. Some of the more formidable creatures to be wary of often exist entirely out of sight. White ants, or subterranean termites as they’re also known, are an aggressive threat across mainland Australia.
The main reason for this is that they thrive in the local hot and humid climates. Unlike other ant species, termites don’t simply go about their business. Without the routine termite inspection Melbourne experts recommend, these creatures can do extensive damage to your home or business. This post takes a closer look at the top ways that termite inspections are a must-do function in all your spaces.
Understanding how Termites Differ from Other Ants
Termites are so common in all parts of Australia that just about every person will encounter them at some point. While you may have met the occasional termite in your work or home space, you may not be aware that Australia features over 360 species throughout the continent. Experts estimate that 1 in every 5 homes or commercial spaces will be forced to deal with a termite infestation.
Unlike black or red ants that seem to go about their daily lives without causing significant damage, termites can cause thousands of dollars’ worth of damage to building structures and furnishings every year. Termites are typically small, wood-eating insects that live in large, structured colonies, which they eagerly create in the structures on the property.
These critters thrive on cellulose, which is found in all types of wood. This means that everything from timber building structures to designer furniture is at risk of infestation. Despite being small, you’ll easily be able to spot these white or brown ants scurrying around your home or workspace.
Termite Inspections Make All the Difference
Many homeowners often don’t even think of dealing with termites unless they’re faced with obvious signs of their presence or damage done by them. The reality is that by the time you notice the signs, significant damage may already have been done. Our experts have compiled a list of the top ways that routine termite inspections will benefit you.
Routine Inspections Can Reduce Financial Consequences
The number one reason to invest in routine termite inspections is that it can potentially save you a considerable amount of money down the road. This is because dealing with termites comes with a dual cost. Not only will you have to deal with the pest control aspect, but also potentially expensive repairs.
It’s essential to know that although termites are tiny, they can do extensive damage by chewing through flooring, structural timbers, and plasterboard from the inside out. They usually hollow out the timber and leave the outer veneer intact, making it difficult to detect for some time.
Another key factor to consider is that insurance companies often exclude termite damage from their claims because this is usually deemed a preventable maintenance issue. This means that you will be paying for the damage and extermination out of pocket.
DIY Methods Fall Short
Both residential and commercial property owners strive to save money by opting for DIY pest inspections or relying on supermarket surface sprays. Unfortunately, this approach is largely ineffective and can actually worsen the problem. Termites are highly sensitive to disruption.
If an untrained person disturbs an active termite gallery, the colony will simply retreat. They’ll then seal off that specific path, and emerge in a different, even harder-to-reach area of the building to continue their destruction. Professional pest controllers, on the other hand, have expert training to successfully exterminate these critters.
The experts also have access to diagnostic technology that the average property owner doesn’t. This can include the following:
- Thermal imaging cameras
- Moisture meters
- Termatrac radar devices
Proactive Prevention Adheres to Compliance
Another top way that routine termite inspections can benefit you is that it will keep your property compliant with local regulations. Australian Standards (specifically AS 3660) strongly recommend that termite inspections be carried out at least once every 12 months.
This is especially recommended in known high-risk, high-moisture, or heavily timbered regions. A professional inspection does not just seek out active pests but also evaluates the overall environment to identify conditions that invite future termite activity.
Expert pest controllers have the necessary training to point out critical environmental risks in the environment. This often includes the following:
- Leaking pipes
- Compromised damp-proof courses
- Inadequate subfloor ventilation
- Direct timber-to-soil contact such as garden beds built up against external walls
Resolving these environmental vulnerabilities radically lowers the probability of a colony targeting your residential or commercial property. If activity is discovered, the pest controller can outline a structured, compliant management plan which can involve:
- Utilising chemical soil barriers
- Monitoring high-risk zones
- Setting up baiting systems designed to eliminate the central colony
Final Thoughts
Termites are an inevitable part of the Australian landscape. Fortunately, with the right preventative treatment provided by expert pest controllers, you will easily be able to avoid the property damage they cause. Investing in professional treatments is a proactive way to safeguard your property and your budget!
