'Fast Facts' about termites
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Termites are among the most successful groups of insects in existence on Earth, colonising most landmasses except for Antartica.
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In Australia, there are over 300 classified species of termites (dampwood, drywood and subterranean).
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A termite colony can consist of over two and a half million individuals.
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Although termites are sometimes called "white ants", they are actually not ants.
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Termite faeces create moisture (that's why a Moisture Meter can assist to locate potential problem areas).
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There is no common pattern or height restriction to the damage that termites can cause - termite infested sites can be found in roofs and even high-rise construction.
Identifying termite activity at your property
Termite activity is often difficult to detect as it usually occurs in concealed locations that go undetected. Termites can destroy timber internally, leaving only a wafer-thin layer to protect them from the outside environment.
You can carry out a 'general' inspection of your property yourself looking for -
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mud-like tubes around external footings / brickwork / weep holes
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mud like tubes around internal fittings e.g. electrical points
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cracks or holes in timber or plaster (particularly if you find a fine dust residue)
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change in the appearance to skirting boards (particularly if you find a fine dust residue)
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change in the appearance of timber cover strips under eaves to gutter areas (termites are attracted to damp and moist areas).
Also, check surrounding trees and garden beds (up to a 50 metre radius around the home) to identify if a colony is active nearby.
If you do suspect any termite activity, please contact us as soon as possible to investigate thoroughly for you.
What to do if you suspect or find termite activity at your property
Should you uncover any termite activity, try to put things back as they were to avoid causing further spread by the termites. If you remove e.g. floorboards, architraves, garden sleepers, this will disturb the termites and they may re-group and attack another area at your property - it is far wiser to engage the services of an experienced and licenced contractor to effectively locate and treat the main nest. The same goes for spraying the termites - leave it to an expert to control them effectively and thoroughly.
If you do suspect any termite activity, please contact us as soon as possible to carry out a thorough and experienced investigation.
If an infestation of termites is discovered at your property, please notify your neighbours so they can also take action thus providing a combined effort to keep your (and their) property safe from termite damage.
ABOUT TERMITES AND YOUR PROPERTY
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