Termite FAQs
Q: When a chemical barrier is applied around a property by trenching what is its effective life and what action is necessary at the end?
A: Chemical barriers can be disturbed 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. The barrier should be re-applied about every 5 years. However, regular annual inspections by a specialised timber pest consultant are essential.
Q: Why is a warranty of only 6 to 12 months is given after a chemical barrier has been applied?
A: Regular inspections are normally part of a chemical barrier treatment contract, as the colony may continue to exist outside the building - most people neglect these at their peril. Also the chemical degenerates in the soil.
Q: Is the use of arsenic trioxide safe?
A: Arsenic trioxide is a toxic dust and must be applied by a qualified, licensed and very experienced pest controller in very small quantities in a very specifically, directed manner.
Q: Are surface sprays applied to subfloor timbers and soil effective?
A: No - these treatments simply give a false sense of security.
Q: Is it possible to get independent advice on termite problems?
A: Yes, we at Australian Building Inspection Services are all specially trained and formally qualified not only as pest controllers but also as timber pest specialists. State forestry, agricultural departments and CSIRO also provide advisory services.
Q: Are moisture meters reliable in detecting termite presence?
A: Termites require a higher humidity in their workings than that of the atmosphere. Moisture meters detect this, but leaks from plumbing, water systems, air conditioning equipment and guttering may also be detected and therefore must be investigated before attributing these readings to termites.
Q: Are physical barriers of stainless steel mesh or finely divided granite stone completely effective?
A: 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 continue to be essential.
Q: Do bait monitors protect properties?
A: Bait monitors alert property owners to the presence of termites so that the attacked monitors can then be used to eradicate the colony.
Q:Are there termite species which do not damage timber in buildings?
A: Yes, that's why it is essential to have an accurate identification so that control options can be evaluated and carefully chosen specifically according to the particular species of termite.
Q: Is trioxide dust eradication treatment always successful?
A: No. The technique depends upon many factors, most important being the skill of the applicator. Commonly, it is not appropriate to use this method of eradication.
Q: Is pre-treated timber resistant to termites?
A: Yes, this timber is often used for landscaping. However, the chemical doesn't penetrate the heartwood, so the centre is sometimes susceptible to termites which may be acerbated by timber splitting or weathering.
Q: Is soil contact necessary for termites attacking timber?
A: Most infestations in buildings occur from nests in trees, stumps and landscape materials, but if moisture is continuously present, soil contact is not essential.