Best Practices for Protection and How to Treat Wood Against Termites
Do all pest controllers follow best practices in termite and pest control? Sadly, the answer is no. New constructions and existing houses are being left without proper protection against pests and termites! We have been to homes where prior pest controllers have not followed best practices. We have also seen an increase in ineffective wood and termite barrier treatments. This suggests that there are pest controllers who do not know exactly how to treat some pests and termites. As a result, homeowners are getting caught out and forced to pay for treatments by other companies.
Whether your home is new or an existing structure, it should be receiving the best protection against pests.
Pest Control Minimum Standards for Best Practice
Best practice starts with:
• The right expertise.
• Industry knowledge.
• Experience.
• Understanding the most effective treatment methods.
Your pest control company should easily satisfy each of the above points. Pest and termite protection can be easily managed by a professional, but it must be done right and regularly maintained(*1).
Pre-Construction Termite and Pest Management
When building or renovating, pest control starts with your builder, as per the Australian Building Codes(*2). Discuss building code requirements and materials with your builder.
Your builder may suggest changing building materials, such as:
• Treated structural and non-structural timber.
• Using other materials in the place of timber where possible.
Physical Protection Systems Must be Installed
The revised Standard AS 3660.1–2014, regarding pre-construction termite management- new building work provides guidelines on what to do.
• It does not recognise spraying under the slab as a complete barrier option anymore.
• A physical protection system is required for complying with the standards. For example, physical penetration collars to be installed before pouring the concrete slab.
For more information read the AS 3660.1-2014 standard or contact Home Termite Control.
During Construction:
Just as builders follow different guidelines for working on new versus existing sites, so do pest controllers. Having an experienced and dedicated pest controller on-site during construction to install barrier systems is invaluable (and essential). If set up correctly and professionally maintained, you may never have to worry about an outbreak of pests on your property.
After Construction:
Professional termite control experts are trained in inspecting houses for termite activity. They know how to find termites in areas that most people never venture to.
When a pest controller attends an existing home, there are more factors involved. For example:
• Identifying the exact species type causing damage to the property.
• The source of the pest, for example, where it has established its nest.
• Recommended treatments.
In the case of termite and pest control, prevention is the best cure. However, if you suspect an outbreak, call on a trusted controller immediately.
Regular Inspections
Regular inspections are the most important part of a solid termite control plan. Therefore, arrange regular inspections – at least once a year but preferably twice a year. Book a termite inspection for early spring to late summer as this is when termite activity is high.
Are you worried about an increase in pests on your property? Have you had a termite inspection in the past 12 months? Contact Home Termite Control in Sydney on 0488 991 126 or online.
How Do I Decide Which Pest Controller is the Best Choice?
Take some time to research pest companies. Have a chat with them, look through their website for credible and reliable content (to back up their claims that they are qualified and experienced), and look online for company reviews. You may even find the company has videos on YouTube that may be helpful with your research.
What Can I Do to Prevent Termites and Pests?
In addition to professional barrier systems and maintenance, there is a range of things you can do to help prevent pests from moving in(*3-5).
- Keep rubbish sealed and do not leave any food scraps out.
- Clear shrubbery that is leaning up against the house.
- Keep an eye on your water run-off and ensure no water is pooling anywhere.
- If you are storing timber, move it away from the main house.
- Ensure the shed/storage area you keep timber in is protected against termites and pests.
We highly value working to and exceeding industry standards and client expectations. Contact our friendly team on 9454 7774 or 0488 991 126.
References *1. Australian Environmental Pest Managers Association. A Code of Practice: For Prior to Purchase Timber Pest Inspections. 4th edition. 2021. *2. Forest and Wood Products Research and Development Corporation. Termite Risk Management. Australian Government. 2005. *3. Fair Trading. Termites. NSW Government. 2021. *4. Environmental Protection Agency. Integrated Pest Management. NSW Government. 2021. *5. Home Termite Control. General Pest and Termite Control Tips. 2020.