Of the many domestic pests that we have, the termite is probably the most destructive, as it eats away at timber and if left untreated, these hardy pests can cause considerable damage to a building. Here are a few common mistakes that homeowners make with regards to a termite infestation.
- Failing To Treat Timber In The Home – Of course, the main ingredient that termites love to eat is good old wood and interior timber needs to be treated. Also, when storing timber in the attic or basement, this can provide an attractive source of food that might interest termites. Of course, the older the property, the more likely it is that termites are present and regular inspections will put your mind at ease. Prior to purchasing property, you should commission a local pest control company to carry out a thorough inspection to determine whether or not termites are present and should that be the case, you should inform the seller, who should arrange treatment.
- Failing To Follow Through – If you have already taken steps to eradicate the pests, this is often insufficient, as it only takes a few to survive and they are back in business again. These insects breed at a tremendous rate and it doesn’t take long for a few to become many; of course, the alternative is to call in the professionals and Sunshine Coast termite inspection prices are very reasonable. If you are located outside Australia, you can check the prices in your area through Google search. After the treatment is complete, regular inspections are in order, which should reveal any survivors.
- Failing To Remove Sources Of Moisture – Moisture is an essential requirement for termites and leaving water sources, or failing to stop dampness from rising up the building could result in a termite infestation. In older properties, damp can be an issue and regular inspections are advised to check for dampness. Dehumidifiers can dramatically reduce the risk of termite infestation, so you should check the humidity levels of your home.
- Failing To Seal Building Cracks – Termites can enter minute cracks and should there be any, they need to be filled. You can use silicone or mastic to fill any cracks in the building, or better still, call in a professional pest control company and they can carry out the work. Even the smallest of cracks are enough for termites to burrow in and this might occur in a location that is not monitored.
- Ignoring Warning Signs – Termites burrow into both timber and soil, leaving small mounds of mud behind when they create tunnels, which are, of course, visible. If you notice small mounds of brown mud near timber, this could well be a sign that termites are present and you should call a local pest control company.
There is one thing that separates termites from other household pests, which is the fact that these insects eat many species of timber and although very small in size, do not underestimate the threat that termites present to your home. Any signs of termite presence should have you calling in a pest control professional.
