TERMITES

(Termite Leads)

Termites lead attacking a home built on a concrete slab (if soil was higher the owner  would never know)Termites, often referred to as White Ants are social insects. They play an important role in the breaking down and recycling of dead wood and plant debris.
Termites may be secretly hiding and thriving in your home or yard without any immediate signs of damage. Unfortunately, all homes, regardless of their construction type, can provide food for termite infestation.

Termites are mostly pale brown to white in colour. The Alates (winged termites) have two pairs of equal wings. These Alates take flight when the weather and humidity conditions are similar to the conditions inside the nest. This flight gives them a greater chance of survival. Flying termites are highly attracted to sources of light and are most active on warm balmy nights. In Victoria they are most commonly seen from September through to March. Once the Alates drop to the ground they shed their wings. After mating, these termites locate a new breeding site and create another colony, spreading infestations throughout multiple locations.

A typical colony contains nymphs (semi mature young), workers, soldiers, and reproductive individuals of both sexes, sometimes containing several egg-laying queens. Inside a colony the Queen can lay more than 1,000 eggs each day, in some species between 20,000 – 30,000. The king and Queen can live as long as twenty five years. Soldier termites work to protect the members of the colony and provide strength and armour which are primarily useful against ant attack. Worker termites make up the majority of the colony, they are blind, wingless and sterile.

In Victoria, Subterranean termites feed mainly on hardwoods. Coptotermes SPP readily feed on soft woods as well as hard woods. Laboratory tests have shown that resistant timber will be eaten if this is the only food source available.

 

FAQ

What needs to be done before renovating or building?

If you are building a new home, extension or simply renovating please call our office to discuss your treatment options. Termite treatments are required during construction to help protect your biggest asset. If you are unsure as to whether you require a treatment or not please contact your building Inspector.

Where do termites live?

Termites nest in sleepers and native gum trees and can travel underground. They can travel up to 100metres from their colony attacking fence posts, trees and homes along the way.

Will Ant Caps kill termites?

Ant caps DO NOT stop termites.  The purpose of Ant caps is to assist in making termite activity visible during inspections.

What do I do if I find termites on my property?

If you find termites in your home or property please DO NOT treat them with insecticide, surface spray or anything else. Call us as soon as you notice activity as treating them yourself can hinder the job and force the termites into hiding. When treating a home for termites it is more effective to monitor active termites.

What do I do to organise an inspection?

Please call our office if you require an inspection or a worried about your property. The Australian Standard recommends an inspection on your home at least every 12 months. Our trained staff will provide you with the best option to suit your needs.