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Termite Prevention

We hear the phrase ‘termite infested’ quite often, and it’s something Sydney property owners are conscious of avoiding. Termite prevention is key to sidestepping major damage and expensive repairs to property. We’ll break down some key tips to staying ahead of the curve in keeping those pesky termites away.

Let’s start with breaking this down into simple terms. We’ve the term ‘termite’, but what exactly are they?

What is a termite?

Termites are insects that feed on wood, which frequently become pests of properties. There are two types of termites encountered in Sydney.

• The Worker: These are creamy coloured termites which are generally 3-4mm in length. They can commonly be found when infested wood is broken.

• The Swarmers: These termites are a dark brown, or black, in colour. They are the reproducers within a termite colony. These termites are approximately 4mm long, and will generally have no wings as they lose these shortly after emergence.

Let’s dive into some tips to avoid a termite infestation!

How to prevent termites

Inspect Wooden Furniture

We now know that termites love wood. One of the common places termites will begin to occupy, is within wooden furniture inside your household. These insects will feed on the wood inside furniture, and can stay unnoticed for long periods. Some flags that can possibly alert you include holes and cracks within the wood. Keep an eye out for this, and if identified, ensure to act quickly before the issue spreads to other parts of your home.

Identify and Remove Moisture around your Property

Termites thrive in areas where moisture is present. Moisture can build up from smaller plumbing problems and water leaks. It is critical to addressing these issues as this environment creates the perfect breeding ground from these bugs to occupy and reproduce.

Schedule Annual Termite Inspection

Prevention is the best cure. This is very relevant in preventing a termite attack on your property. An annual termite inspection will ensure your property is carefully inspected, which includes looking into covert signs of infestation. If any small signs of termites appear, a professional pest controller inspector will be able to deal with this straight away, which will generally save a truckload compared to having to fork out huge amounts to address property repair bills.

How to address termites when identified

Use Termite Bait Systems

As discussed, termites feed on wood.  This device is made of a wooden base, which is used to attract termites. When approached by a termite, a poison is released which this insect feeds on. This poison is then carried back to the colony to kill these bugs at the source.

Apply Termite Barrier

This method includes attracting termites within the barrier zone. Once this area has been entered, the termites are affected and will slowly die. A popular product used for this solution is Termidor.

Use a Pest Control Expert

When you know there’s a termite problem, make sure you act quick! We’ve been in the pest control industry for years, and we are specialists when it comes to termite prevention in Sydney. Our strategies are a combination of above and will vary based on the property, and the significance of the termite issue, from prevention through to termination.

Termites queens can lay up to 1,000 eggs per day, exponentially increasing this pest issue in days. This is why getting on top of any termite issue is critical once identified. For free advice on termite prevention within Sydney, call 0435 839 335. Crossfire Pest Solutions are experts in pest control and we are here to help and support you!

Tags: pest control, termite prevention