TERMITE & PEST CONTROL
Termites
Subterranean Termites
Subterranean (under the ground) termites normally reside in the earth where all their needs are met. In order for them to survive they need a dark, warm, damp environment with access to food which is the cellulose found in timber. When foraging near their nest turns up no food they turn to our homes. They enter our homes through the foundation if possible, travelling on the interior of concrete blocks, or they build ‘tunnels’ or ‘tubes’ on the exterior of the wall and make their way to the timber in our structure. Since they need moisture, they travel back and forth to the ground through the concrete blocks or tunnels/tubes, unless there is moist timber in our home, in which case they may survive above ground. This moisture will be found in our homes in leaking roofs, leaking pipes etc.
What timber looks like when attacked by subterranean termites.
Subterranean termite tunnel/trail/mud tube on a wall. This is how they protect themselves from air and sunlight while travelling above ground
Subterranean termite nest below structure and how they enter our homes from below.
PROTECTING YOUR PROPERTY AGAINST SUBTERRANEAN TERMITE INFESTATION
Timber and timber products, in addition to moisture, are necessary for the survival of subterranean termites. These termites normally reside in the earth where they are protected from sunlight and air which spell destruction to them. When food (timber and related products) are unavailable to them in their foraging in the earth, they enter our homes in search of food, travelling back and forth to the earth for life giving moisture unless this necessary moisture is provided in the structure by way of leaks.
A complete treatment to the structure at foundation level ensures that any termites entering the structure from the ground or making their way to the ground for moisture, come into contact with the chemical used thus starting the ingestion and contact process which results in eradication of the entire colony.
IMPORTANT TIPS
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Do not leave timber or timber products under the structure or lying on the ground in close proximity to the structure.
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Keep grounds clear of debris and heavy vegetation to allow the ground to receive sunlight and remain dry.
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Re-direct water away from the structure so that it does not settle close to the structure.
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Avoid garden beds directly against walls as this encourages damp against foundation walls and watering can dilute or wash away protective chemicals used.
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Check areas around down pipes to make sure that water is draining away from the structure adequately.
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Repair leaking roofs and pipes immediately as leaks in the structure create ideal moist conditions for subterranean termite infestation and infestations may go undetected for long periods resulting in serious damage.
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Make sure cellar areas are well ventilated and kept dry.
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Should you make any changes to the structure, please contact your exterminator so that another inspection may be carried out as it may be necessary to carry out remedial treatment to ensure that your chemical barrier remains unbroken.
