If you live in Australia, chances are you've heard about termites. After all, these small, wood-eating insects can cause thousands of dollars worth of damage to your home if not handled properly. So, whether you're a homeowner or a tenant, it's important to understand the steps necessary for termite prevention and removal. What do you need to learn about these pesky insects and how to prevent them from making your life a nightmare?
Be on the Lookout
First and foremost, it's important to identify the signs of an infestation so that you can act quickly before substantial damage is done. Common signs include hollow-sounding wood, discarded wings near windowsills or doors, mud tubes (traces left by worker termites) and sawdust near wooden surfaces. If you notice any of these signs, it's time to take action.
Deal with an Infestation
The safest way to deal with termite infestations is to get professional help. Pest control professionals have access to a variety of treatments that homeowners may not have access to, such as chemical barriers and baits. These treatments will effectively eliminate existing colonies while helping to prevent future infestations. For those looking for more natural solutions, there are also products available on the market made from essential oils like cedarwood and lemon grass oil that can help repel termites without introducing chemicals into your home.
Be Proactive
Finally, it is important to be proactive when it comes to preventing future infestations. This means that you may need to take several steps, such as:
- carrying out regular inspections (as recommended by the pest control experts)
- ensuring that your home is a fortress by sealing cracks in foundations, replacing weather strips around windows and doors,
- removing clutter from around your foundation walls,
- ensuring that there are no entry points for water near your home (as dampness attracts termites).
Stay Strong
Even the word "termite" can strike fear into the home of an Australian, and it can certainly be overwhelming to deal with a potential infestation. Although it's important to understand how these insects work, so you can take preventative measures. These will go a way towards protecting your home from serious damage. By following these tips and enlisting the help of a professional pest control company if necessary, you can ensure that any existing infestations are eliminated quickly and efficiently while preventing future ones from occurring in the first place. For more info, contact a local company like Total Pest Control.
