Many new homes in Brisbane are treated with physical termite barriers. These include a concrete slab layer that’s been chemically impregnated or plastic sheeting that is placed on the ground.
A reticulation system works well with these types of treatments. It involves pipes positioned around the property. These are then filled with termiticide and distributed throughout the soil. To know more about Concrete Termites, visit the Bug Out Pest Solutions website or call 0426263320.
Termites are known as ‘the silent destroyers’ and their entry into brick, concrete slab homes often goes undetected. They gain access through infill panels, expansion joints, cracks and imperfections in concrete slab flooring or around services pipes. They may also enter through garden beds or up through the slab edge.
Concrete doesn’t hold particular appeal for termites, but it is a barrier that prevents them from reaching joists and bearers within the home. During construction, it is important to ensure the concrete is placed on undisturbed soil or a compacted base to specifications determined by your building engineer.
The slab and any penetrations such as plumbing or electrical must be fitted with physical termite barriers. These barriers come in many forms such as termiticide injected plastic sheeting that is laid into concrete slabs or round collars that fit over pipe penetrations. Slabs should also be fitted with an inspection zone that is a minimum of 75mm from the weep hole to the ground.
Brick pavers are one of the longest lasting materials on the planet. They are a popular choice for outdoor hardscaping projects, and can endure for generations. They are also very stylish, allowing for a variety of creative patterns when they are laid. Brick pavers tend to have a textured surface and can require the application of a sealant to keep them looking great.
Brick paving can be set in herringbone, running bond or basket weave patterns to create a unique look for your home. They are available in a variety of colours and can be used to add colour and texture to your garden, courtyard or driveway.
While brick houses are considered less susceptible to termite attacks, they are not completely safe from these destructive pests. Termites can still access the house through cracks and expansion joints, holes for plumbing or electrical wiring, and through gaps in the cladding or retaining walls. It is a good idea to have a termite barrier installed around the perimeter of your home.
Retaining walls are often necessary on steep sites, providing safety and usable space for gardens, buildings and driveways. Typically built of timber, these structures are susceptible to decay and can easily be damaged by termites. Concrete sleeper retaining walls are an excellent alternative to timber, as they can be built higher and offer greater stability. They are also resistant to weather and insect effects, making them a great choice for Brisbane’s harsh climate.
Most home insurance policies don’t cover termite damage, so it is important to schedule regular termite inspections and treatments. In areas with high density housing, like Carindale, a termite outbreak can quickly spread across multiple properties in the block.
If your property has a concrete slab or retaining wall and isn’t fitted with a physical barrier system, you can install a reticulation termite management system to protect the structure from termites. This is an automated underground termite protection system which is replenished each 8 years.
The good news is that termites can’t access a concrete slab via the soil, however, they can get under fences if moisture is allowed to build up around a home – this could be through leaking shower recesses, guttering problems, water accumulating in wall cavities or excessive cellulose debris. It is now a requirement of the Queensland Building Act that all new homes or extensions/ renovations have a physical or chemical termite barrier installed. To know more about Concrete Termites, visit the Bug Out Pest Solutions website or call 0426263320.
The most destructive termites in Brisbane are the Genus Coptotermes. They are easily identifiable with their pear shaped soldiers that range in size from 5.6mm to 3.6mm. This particular species of termite has the ability to penetrate sound timber and can cause significant damage to a building. They are most often found in tree stumps/living trees, filled patios or sleeper retaining walls. Termite protection systems such as the Kordon Termite System or Bayer Homeguard can be used to help protect against this species.