Termites: A Threat You Can't Ignore

As a builder, you're always looking for ways to make your projects run smoother, quicker and more cost-effectively. But have you considered the threat of termites? It may not be the most exciting topic, but it's one that you can't ignore. In this blog, we'll cover what you need to know about termites and why taking the threat seriously is so important.

You're probably thinking, "termites? No problem, my building is located in a termite-free zone." Unfortunately, as any pest control operator in Melbourne will tell you, there's no such thing as a termite-free zone. In fact, these so-called "termite-free areas" are a complete myth and a goldmine for the pest industry. So, if you're building in Melbourne, it's essential that you design in a termite barrier system, no matter what the rules say.

But why take termites seriously? The answer is simple: cost. If termites are found feeding on the internal wooden components of your structure, extermination, removal, and damage repair will be necessary. This process can be expensive, with the average cost of termite damage to a residential structure being $30,000 and sometimes reaching into the hundreds of thousands. And don't forget, this cost is often specifically excluded in insurance contracts. Homeowners have been known to seek compensation through the courts, so it's crucial for both your cash position and insurance standing that you take the threat of termites seriously.

Now that you understand the importance of termites, let's dive into the different types of termite control available on the market. There are four main types of termite barriers: chemical barriers, reticulation systems, termite baiting systems, and physical termite barriers.

Chemical barriers are old-school and increasingly uncool in environmental terms. A trench is dug around the perimeter of the slab, holes are drilled in any existing concrete, and pesticide is poured, pumped, and injected into the ground to kill and deter termites. It's safe to say that you'd want to avoid this method for environmental reasons.

Reticulation systems are employed where a physical termite barrier system hasn't been installed or can't be. This is a common system used in renovations or additions to existing buildings. A trench is dug, and a series of perforated hoses are laid around the slab. These pipes are connected to a central pesticide cistern, and over time, the pesticide weeps from the perforations to create a toxic barrier.

Termite baiting systems are a direct and targeted approach. Bait traps are placed around the site to attract termites. The termites collect poison and take it back to the nest, where the colony is poisoned from within. This system is ideal for all applications with trees present that have a high likelihood of containing nests.

Finally, we have physical termite barriers. These systems are the simplest, fastest to install, most reliable, and have the greenest carbon footprint. Greenzone Termite Barrier is a prime example of a physical termite barrier that's backed by a 50-year warranty and a $2 million guarantee. That's a serious commitment to making sure your building isn't breached.

Termites are a threat you can't ignore. Taking the threat seriously is essential for both your cash position and insurance standing. When it comes to termite control, Greenzone Termite Barrier physical termite barriers are the simplest, fastest to install, most reliable, and have the greenest carbon footprint. So, make sure to choose a competent pest control installer accredited and signed off on the Greenzone system to protect your buildings from the dangers of termites.