Keeping On Top of Pests: Termites

You may have heard about an acquaintance who had to fork out a huge sum of money due to termite damage within their home. You may have sympathised with their position as they owned a wood-frame structure and may have been glad that you chose to build your house out of brick, instead. However, you can't afford to be too complacent when you understand exactly what termites eat. Maybe it's time for you to get a better understanding of these annoying pests.

You Are at Risk Too

Many people believe that termites will only attack a home that is wood based, not understanding that a brick-built property will also have a wooden frame underneath. You may not be able to see any of this from the outside or inside, but in the right circumstances the termites will find their way in.

Big Appetite

Termites do not simply feed on wood but are looking for cellulose, an organic material contained within a variety of different plants, shrubs, trees and products made from these sources.

While termites like to chomp away on a timber joist, they will also snack on drywall or sheetrock and even the wallpaper that you use to line an interior room.

Approaching Army

They may migrate to your attic and find a smorgasbord of cardboard boxes, where they can dine to their heart's content. If you're not careful they can even migrate into your bedroom (if the conditions are favourable) and get to work on the frame that supports your bed.

Humidity

Unfortunately, warm climates are perfect for these pests and they love the humidity that seems prevalent through most Australian seasons. So long as they have somewhere that is dark and relatively damp to set up their base, they can cause tens of thousands of dollars of damage in next to no time.

Laying a Barrier

Cellulose is found in many different products around the home and it's impossible to eliminate it completely. You can take steps to deter the termites, however, by treating wood products with chemicals that are designed for the task. You must also install an underground perimeter around your home that will deter any approaching termites and prompt them to find a base elsewhere.

Ventilation Is Key

Furthermore, make sure that your house is properly ventilated, especially those areas that tend to be more humid, such as the kitchen, attic or bathrooms. The less moisture inside, the less attractive it will be to termites.

Sizing It up

You can take other measures that may be specific to your property. Speak with termite control professionals to draw up your battle plan as soon as possible.