There is a Simple Rule About Termites - Don’t Encourage Them!
Termites are remarkable creatures. Despite their minuscule size, they play a critical role in the ecosystem, breaking down tough plant fibers, recycling dead and decaying trees, and improving the soil. However, they aren’t as friendly when it comes to our homes. There’s a straightforward principle to remember about these insects: “Don’t encourage them.”
Understanding Termites: Nature’s Efficient Recyclers Termites are like nature’s demolition crew. If you set a piece of timber down – be it railway sleepers, garden trim, stored timbers, or firewood – you’re basically setting up a buffet for these pests. Beneath our feet, in the subterranean world, termites constantly forage in their intricate network of tunnels. Their primary goal? Search for food.
When they find wood, they don’t just consume it. They harvest it. Inside their bellies, special enzymes break down cellulose, the main component in wood. The digested material isn’t just for their benefit. They take it back to their nests, sharing this nourishment with their colony members, ensuring the survival and growth of the colony.
So, imagine what happens when you place timber directly on the ground. To termites, it appears as if you’ve sent them a personal invitation to a feast. It’s merely a matter of days before they swarm to accept this generous ‘gift’.
Tips to Keep Termites at Bay
To ensure your home isn’t on the menu for termites, follow these essential steps:
- Elevate Wood: Always keep wood elevated off the ground. This includes firewood, spare construction timber, and wooden garden elements. Using metal stands or concrete blocks can prevent direct contact with the soil.
- Regular Inspections: Have Conquer Termites do a termite inspection on your property annually. We can spot the early signs of infestation or areas of vulnerability.
- Reduce Moisture: Termites are attracted to moisture. Ensure that your home’s foundation remains dry by fixing leaks promptly, ensuring proper drainage, and directing water away from your home with well-placed downspouts.
- Treat the Soil: Consider soil treatments. These treatments repel or kill termites and create a protective barrier around your home.
- Use Termite-Resistant Wood: If you’re constructing a new space or renovating, consider using treated or naturally termite-resistant wood. This can significantly reduce the risk of termite infestation.
- Seal Entry Points: Regularly inspect your home for cracks and crevices. Termites can enter through tiny openings, so sealing these can deter them.
- Maintain a Clear Perimeter: Keep a clear one foot gap between soil and any wooden parts of your home. This space makes it harder for termites to move from the ground to the wood.
Remember, termites are always on the hunt for food. The best defense is to ensure your home isn’t serving up an easy meal. By following the tips above, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of a termite infestation, protecting your home and your peace of mind.
If you are worried or have questions, Call Conquer now on 1300 417 007
