4 Expert Tips to Reduce Potential Termite Infestations in Your Home

The list of pests that can invade your home and damage your property is long and varied. However, one pest stands out more than the others and also makes homeowners very nervous. We are, of course, referring to the dreaded termite. 

Different species of termites are a common problem across many areas in Australia. It’s with this in mind that residential and commercial business owners are turning to the pest control Melbourne locals rely on to keep their properties pest-free. But, how to get rid of termites?

Knowing What You’re Up Against

If you’ve never had to deal with a termite before, you may think they’re just another type of ant and not know what he fuss is all about. 

In fact, many people are unaware that there are almost 350 native termite species living in fields, farms, homes, and office buildings all over Australia. 

Of these, only 40 are labelled as destructive, which means they fall into the category that can cause extensive damage to homes and other timber structures. 

It’s also essential to note that a termite population can easily exceed one million, and since most termite queens live longer than 50 years, it’s easy to see why eradicating them can be so difficult. 

Prevention is Always Better than a Cure

The adage, prevention is better than cure has never been more true than when it refers to dealing with termites. 

While your local pest controller will let you know how to get rid of termites and doesn’t mind keeping your property termite-free, there are several tips they want homeowners to be aware of. 

Implementing these in and around your home will reduce the likelihood of an infestation and save you money in the long run. 

1. Eliminate Potential Food Sources

The number one reason termites may be attracted to your space may be because there’s an abundant food source. 

These critters typically feed on cellulose, which is found in wood and other plant material, which may sometimes be lying around in your yard. They also find cellulose in the timber structures used in your home’s construction. 

Here are a few tips from our experts to reduce termites’ access to the cellulose on your property:

• Don’t store wood piles against the exterior walls of your home or anywhere near the foundations. Move your wood piles to a dry area such as a bin in the garage or garden shed. 
• When using wood, always select the older pieces first, as these are weaker and therefore, more appealing to termites. 
• Treat any outdoor furniture and timber components to keep termites out. 
• Have all the cracks and crevices in your foundations, walls, and roofs sealed and filled. 
• Schedule regular inspections of your home and property and check for signs of termites. 

2. Dry up any Excessive Moisture

Termites aren’t only attracted to cellulose but also need moisture to survive. Consider the following tips to keep your property dry of excessive moisture:

• Any water tanks with overflows should be plumbed to your stormwater drains, as this will prevent water pooling and attracting termites. 
• Speak to a plumber to relocate your hot water tank’s relief valve so that it doesn’t drain against your home. This will keep your foundation drier and less appealing to termites. 
• Dry up any moisture away from all foundations and routinely allow spaces to air out and dry to prevent dampness. 

3. Keep a Clean Yard

The cellulose that attracts termites can also be found in plant vegetation. This means it’s a good idea to keep your yard as clean as possible. Consider these few tips:

• Clear out any plant overgrowth that’s close to your home’s walls or foundation. 
• Trim trees and shrubs that lead to overgrowth, especially the ones that lean against or over the wall.
• Move shrub and pot plants away from the house walls. 

4. Invest in a Professional Termite Control Treatment

Many homeowners only resort to calling the professionals when they already have a full-blown infestation on their properties. By this time, an extensive amount of damage may already have been done. 

Avoid this by investing in termite prevention treatment. Your pest controller team will apply the treatment around your property line, as well as in your home’s roof. 

Areas where your home has timber will also be treated. Termite treatment will go a long way to keeping termites from moving in. 

Termite treatments can be adjusted to your property’s specific requirements and may be increased if your pest controller is aware of infestations in the area. 

These treatments are beneficial to any property but are especially crucial to older, timber homes or areas near fields or parks. Your pest controller will assess your property and design a solution plan. 

How To Get Rid Of Termites?

If your home is infested with termites, you must hire a pest control company and address the situation immediately.

1. Choose The Company Carefully

If you are looking to hire a pest control company, you should check if the company is licensed by the state. Ask for their license and clear any concerns you have before you go ahead and hire them.

2. Read The Product Label

If you are using any product, read the label first. They will have everything mentioned about how you should use it and about the potential risks of it. 

If it does not have any instructions about controlling termites and protecting the structure, then the product might not be made for preserving the structure, and it should not be applied.

3. Discuss Your Return To The Residence

The time needed to return to the residence depends on the product, and it will be mentioned on the label of the product as well. Discuss with the company or the applicator when you can get back to the residence after the treatment. 

Keep Your House Safe

Using the tips and recommendations shared in this post will help you keep these dreaded pests out of your space. However, if your house is somehow infested and you are wondering how to get rid of termites, then hire a professional company.

In addition to these guidelines, it’s also a good idea to speak to your local pest controller for a termite treatment that prevents them from moving in at all. 

Preventing termites is always cheaper and more effective than having to spend a fortune on structure repairs. Prevention is better than a cure!