10 Tips to Make Your Home Termite Proof

Termites can be a nightmare for any homeowner in Australia. These domestic pests have the ability to completely destroy the property you've worked so hard to buy. Therefore, it's essential to detect their presence early to take control of the situation before it becomes severe.

In Australia, there are more than 360 different species of termites. Subterranean termites, drywood termites, and dampwood termites are the three most prevalent species of termites in Australia. Knowing about these pests will help you recognise them more easily and take better preventative actions.

You can take preventive measures to protect your house, but in case of a severe infestation, it's best to call a professional. Their expertise will help you find the right solutions to eliminate the infestation.

In this article, we'll discuss some effective tips to make your house termite-proof in Australia.

• Avoid Landscaping Close to Your Home

  While a well-maintained garden adds to the beauty of your house, it can also attract termites. Trees, bushes, and other vegetation provide a direct route for termites to enter your home. Make sure you keep the vegetation trimmed and maintain a buffer zone of at least two feet between your home and any greenery.

• Fix Water Leaks

  They thrive in moist environments, so any water leaks in your home can attract them. Regularly inspect your home for any leaks, and immediately fix any that you find. Check for leaks under sinks, around toilets, and in the attic. Keep gutters and downspouts clear of debris to avoid water pooling around your home's foundation.

• Improve Drainage

  Water that collects around your home's foundation can create a moist environment that attracts termites. Ensure that your home's drainage system is working properly and is directing water away from your home's foundation. You can add downspout extenders and grade your yard to prevent water from pooling around your house.

• Inspect Wood and Other Stored Products Regularly

  Termites love wood and wood products, such as paper, cardboard, and mulch. If you store these items near your home, it can attract termites. Store wood and wood products away from your home, and elevate them off the ground if possible. Regularly inspect any stored wood for signs of termite activity, such as tunnels or mud tubes.

• Be Cautious During Building Improvements

  If you are planning any home improvements that involve wood, such as adding a deck or a porch, ensure that the wood is termite-treated. Avoid creating entry points for them during the construction process. If you are unsure about how to proceed, consult with a professional contractor who has experience in preventing infestations.

• Regularly Inspect Your Lawn

  Your lawn can be a source of termite activity, so it is important to keep an eye on it. Look for signs of termite activity, such as mud tubes or discarded wings. If you find any signs of termite activity, contact a pest control professional immediately.

• Inspect Wood in Your Home

  Regularly inspect the wood in your house for signs of pest activity. Look for pockets or ripples in the wood that can indicate the presence of pests. If you can easily poke through the wood, cover the hole with duct tape and contact a professional pest control service immediately.

• Choose the Right Contractor

  When hiring a contractor for any home improvement project, be sure to choose a reputable company that has experience in preventing infestations. Verify the contractor's credentials, and ask for references. Don't skimp on this step, as the quality of the contractor's work can have a significant impact on your house's susceptibility to termites.

• Schedule Frequent Pest Inspections

  Regular pest inspections by a professional can help detect an infestation before it becomes too severe. A pest control professional can spot signs of termite activity that may be invisible to the untrained eye. Consider scheduling annual inspections to stay ahead of any potential problems.

• Opt for Pest Protection

  One of the best ways to ensure that your home is termite-proof is to opt for pest protection right from the time of construction. By placing screens within the dirt and underneath the cement, you can prevent pests from entering your property from quite a distance.

  It's important to note that not all pest protection solutions are equal. Some are more effective than others, and the best solution for your home will depend on factors such as your location and the type of construction. For example, a concrete slab foundation will require a different approach to pest protection compared to a house built on stumps.

  You should work with a licensed and experienced pest control company to determine the best pest protection solution for your home. They will take into account the specific factors that make your property vulnerable to infestations, and provide a solution that will be effective in keeping them at bay.

Regular Maintenance and Inspections

Even with the best pest protection in place, it's important to maintain your home and conduct regular inspections to ensure that they haven't found a way in.

Regular inspections can help you detect pest activity early, which will make it easier and less costly to eradicate them.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when conducting regular inspections:

• Check for pest activity in and around the home, including in the garden and trees.
• Keep an eye out for mud tubes, which are a sign of termite activity.
• Inspect any wooden structures or furniture for signs of damage or infestation.
• Make sure that all drainage and plumbing systems are functioning correctly, as damp or moist conditions can attract them.
• Look for cracks or gaps in the foundation, walls, and roof that could allow them to enter.
• Make sure that any firewood or wooden debris is stored well away from the home.

By conducting regular inspections and taking preventative measures, you can keep your home pest-free for years to come.

Conclusion

Termites are a significant threat to Australian homes, and it's important to take steps to prevent and control infestations. By following the tips outlined in this article, you can significantly reduce your risk of an infestation and protect your home from costly damage.

Remember to keep your home well-maintained, eliminate sources of moisture, and opt for pest protection right from the time of construction. And if you do detect termite activity, don't hesitate to call in the professionals. With their expertise, they can provide effective solutions to eradicate the infestation and prevent it from happening again.