Are moisture meters reliable in detecting termites?

Termites require a higher humidity in their workings than their surroundings. Moisture meters detect this, but leaks from plumbing, water systems, air conditioning equipment and guttering may also be detected and therefore must be investigated.

What is the effective life of a chemical barrier?

Chemical barriers can be bridged or breached at any time by any number of factors including servicing of property facilities, landscaping, additions, modifications, rodents, soil leaching and tree roots. The chemical itself also degenerates. Generally, barriers should be re-applied about every 5 years and regular annual inspections by a specialised timber pest consultant are essential.

Why is a warranty of only 6 to 12 months given after a chemical barrier has been applied?

Regular inspections are normally part of a chemical barrier treatment contract, as the colony may continue to exist outside the building - neglect these at your peril. Also the chemical degenerates in the soil.

Are surface sprays applied to subfloor timbers and soil effective?

No - these treatments simply give a false sense of security.

Are physical barriers of stainless steel mesh or finely divided granite stone effective?

Any physical barrier can be bridged or breached by electrical and plumbing services, additions, modifications, renovations, and landscaping. Their primary function is to force termite activity to become visible to inspection. Regular inspections by a specialised timber pest consultant continue to be essential.

Do bait monitors protect properties?

Bait monitors alert property owners to termite presence so that attacked monitors can be used to eradicate the colony by introducing substances specifically designed to disrupt termite growth, digestion and colony behaviour. This must be undertaken by a specialised timber pest consultant.

Are there termite species which do not damage timber in buildings?

Yes, that's why it's essential to have an accurate identification so that control options can be carefully chosen according to the particular termite species.

Is pre-treated timber resistant to termites?

Often the chemical doesn't penetrate the heartwood, so the timber centre can be susceptible to termites which may be acerbated by timber splitting or weathering.

Is soil contact necessary for termites attacking timber?

Most infestations in buildings occur from nests in trees, stumps and landscape materials, but if moisture is continuously present, soil contact is not essential.

Is trioxide dust eradication treatment successful?

Arsenic trioxide must be applied into termite workings by a very experienced timber pest consultant in minute quantities in a very directed manner. Often it is not the most appropriate method to use.