As we are now in the Spring on the Gold Coast the temperatures are warming up, we are approaching the wet season and termite activity will be on the increase. There is much the homeowner can do to reduce the risk of termites attacking their property and below are several suggestions for steps that can be taken now.
1. Ensure that weep holes in external brick walls are well clear of the ground and that soil, mulch or debris in garden beds is not covering them.
2. If there are any items stacked against external walls they can allow bridging or breaching of protection programs and they should be stored well clear of any buildings.
3. If there is timber debris lying on the ground outside make sure that it is either discarded or stored well above the ground so that doesn’t attract termites. Often it is only a short distance from timber lying on the ground to the walls of the house and by keeping it cleared it does reduce risk.
4. Areas of high moisture around the outside of the house that may be caused by poor drainage, leaking taps or leaking water tanks should be rectified by improving drainage or repairing leaks. High moisture is a conducive condition of timber pest attack (not just termites but also rot).
5. Regularly check for unusual mud trails that may appear on the outside of the house, on timber retaining walls or on trees. If mud trails appear for you are aware that there is timber damage present, it is best not to disturb them but to contact a licensed timber pest Inspector to carry out an inspection. All Care Pest and Termite Control can be contacted on 5574 0269 or 0412 142 340.
6. Finally make sure that your property is regularly inspected. Australian Standards recommend inspections for termites be carried out at least annually, however, more frequent inspections are sometimes necessary and a licensed Timber Pest Inspector can give advice regarding this.
If you have any queries please call All Care Pest and Termite Control immediately on 5574 0269 or 0412 142 340.