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Termites are one of, if not the most recurrent, pests in Wollongong. As a coastal area with an abundance of timber homes and structures, the city tends to attract damaging termite species drawn to moisture. The beginning of termite infestation is usually indicated by hollowed wood surfaces, which may be difficult to detect in a busy household or establishment. Most of the time, people become aware only in the late stages where it can be visually detected. Fortunately, homeowners and business owners can rely on the service of pest control in Wollongong for timely detection of termites. With professionals’ help, they can more accurately inspect their homes and commercial establishments of less obvious signs of termite infestation.
Causes of Termite-Infestation
Technically, termites or white ants range in over 259 species in Australia. Not all of the species are harmful, and there are only some wood-damaging species. The subterranean termites are the ones that cause damage to homes. They are soft-bodied insects that can’t survive in the open. Thus, these insects build tunnels from their nests to areas up to 100 metres away.
Just as humans need water to survive, subterranean termite species survive with moisture. They search for areas most prone to moisture, detecting it through consistently moist soils. They find their way to irrigated garden beds and areas with air conditioning drainage or leaking taps. From moist soils, termites move to concealed areas where dampness are likely to occur. These areas are cavity walls or floor gaps, under baths, shower recesses, and other damp areas.
Besides moisture, termites are also attracted to cellulose or sugar molecules. These organic fibres are found in plants, trees, and logs, explaining why timber materials are prone to termite infestation. Furthermore, these white ants damage insulation, swimming pool filters and liners, and books.
Damage to Timber Structures
Damage resulting from termite infestation starts at moisture-prone areas and the timber structural parts that comprise it. It eats away timber in direct contact with soil, such as fences, pergolas, and gate posts. It damages floorboards and decking, skirting boards, cupboards, carpets, and even furniture.
Home insurances do not cover termite damage, which is why homeowners, and establishment owners as well, need to prevent infestations as much as possible. Those suspecting infestations to homes with visible termite damage must seek the service of pest control in Wollongong to eradicate pests in whatever stage they may be. Fairly new buildings, especially those with all-wood frames, are also advised to seek professional advice and regular termite inspection. People looking to sell their homes are required to report termite inspections and greatly affect a home’s value.
Regularly inspecting a building for termites and other wood-damaging pests can solve early infestations or prevent them from happening at all. Termites spread fast while eating away wood materials in a building, with large colonies eating up as much as one pound of wood a day. However, the damage remains undetected for many years without professional observation.
With proper pest control services, professionals use advanced equipment to detect potential yet unobvious problems outside, around, and within the building. Existing infestations will be eradicated. Lastly, preventive measures will be set in place in the form of a management plan and appropriate equipment installation. Pests like termites happen to be a natural occurrence that fits the climate of Wollongong. Wollongong’s climate is oceanic, but it has a humid subtropical influence. However, pest control services continue to safeguard any home in the city.
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