Pests come in many different shapes and sizes, and they can wreak havoc on your garden and home. One of the biggest pests are termites. These pests, otherwise known as “white ants”, are extremely destructive. If you’re noticing this problem on your property, you need the best vendor for termite inspection Melbourne has to offer, today!
The most important part of preventing termites destroying your home is swift action, carrying out regular inspections and putting preventative measures into place. Early detection is key in combating your termite problem.
Termite damage is not usually covered by most insurance companies, so rather educate yourself on this topic, so you can take back control of your property.
What to do if You Think You Have Termites
Do you think you have termites? If you’ve seen these tiny tormentors around your home or property, it’s very important not to disturb them. If you move or damage the timber they are nesting in, they will move and begin to build a nest and destroy timber nearby.
Instead, call the professionals that know how to get rid of termites. They will guide you and give you expert advice tailored to treat your termite problem.
The Inspection—What to Expect
It’s recommended that you carry out a termite inspection every 12 months to ensure that your home is fully protected.
If you request a property inspection, experts will arrive and carry out a full audit of the area. They will need to look at all accessible areas throughout the roof, under the house, under the skirting boards, flooring, door frames and windows. In addition, any areas where there is a gap in the wood or siding will be relevant for them. They may even inspect up to 50 meters over the property boundary line.
Once the entire inspection has been completed, you will be given a report on the extent of the infestation. Skilled professionals will then design a treatment plan that is tailor made to suit your scenario.
How to Determine if You Have Termites
Termites are known to eat wood and timber from the inside out. If you look at the timber, it will appear as if it’s bubbling or wrinkled if termites are present. In some cases, you may notice small holes or tiny openings filled with mud.
If termites are inside your home, you will normally find them in the flooring, in doorframes or in the skirting boards. Look for the following:
- Damaged wood: Knock on the wood. If it has been damaged by termites the wood will sound hollow.
- Alates/flying ants: At certain times of the year, alates will hatch from the nest. You will see hundreds of them leave the nest at the same time. They will appear as a swarm of flying ants. If you spot alates there is high chance that you have a termite infestation. You should contact an exterminator immediately.
- Termite leads: Termite leads are small tunnels constructed from mud and cellulose and they look like small brown straws. Termites are quite fragile as they don’t have much defence against predators. Also, they require a humid most environment to survive. The critters use these tunnels to travel safely. If you find these during the inspection there is a very good chance that you have a termite problem.
Termite Protection Tips
No need to panic though! There are a few things you can do to prevent termites from taking over:
- Git rid of any loose timber that is stored on the ground. There shouldn’t be any loose wood around your property, as this can attract termites.
- Replace landscaping timber with a non-susceptible material.
- Keep garden beds below the weep holes or vents. If your plants are overgrown, they could conceal termite entryways.
- Fix any leaking pipes because moisture attracts termites.
Treatment Options
If you do need to solve the termite problem, there are several methods to pick from. The traditional option is to chemically treat a barrier. Professional termite exterminators will apply a liquid form to areas under the house and to the external foundations. Done right, your home will be protected for years to come.
What to Look for in a Pest Control Company
Now, who do you trust to help you treat your property?
For the best pest control services that Melbourne has to offer, look for a company that has an excellent service history and these characteristics:
- They offer the most advanced, full-service pest control
- Exceptional customer service to ensure easy communication
- Technicians must be accredited and licensed
- Inspections should be carried out by professionals and the treatment plan designed to combat your specific problems
- Experts use the most advanced industry related technology
- All the chemicals used must be safe for your kids, family, and pets
In Conclusion
Inspecting your property on a regular basis should help you keep termites at bay. Call the experts to carry out an inspection every six to 12 months. This won’t stop the attacks, but it will greatly reduce the amount of damage that they cause.
If you do notice a problem—or even just suspect that termites arrived—talk to the experts. They’re there to stay unless you take some action.