Since 2009, we have been providing chemical termite barriers. Brisbane and South-East Queensland is a popular spot for termites. Our climate, frequent rain and bushy-environment provide ideal conditions for termites as they love the heat and damp timber.
Due to this and the high amount of damage they cause to homes, Australian Standards recommend that every home have a termite management system in place. This can be in the form of a physical termite barrier, chemical termite barrier, baits, and/or frequent inspections. However, a chemical termite barrier is the most effective system currently available.
What is a termite barrier?
A chemical termite barrier is a type of termite treatment that provides long-term protect against termites. It is installed around the perimeter of a home and prevents subterranean termites from gaining access to the building. The chemical used for the treatment is a long-lasting chemical that lasts for up to 8 years. At Dedant Building and Pest Inspections, we also use Termidor.
How do chemical termite barriers work?
The chemical barrier works by binding the chemical to the soil around the property. As termites forage through the soil looking for additional food sources, they meet the barrier. Upon contact, the termites are infected with a dose of the chemical. As the chemical is slow-acting, the termites then take this chemical back to the nest with them and infect the other termites thus eliminating the entire colony.
What's involved in a termite barrier installation?
The chemical termite barrier is installed by digging a moat-like trench around the property, filling it with the chemical and covering it back up. Obviously, this isn’t always possible if there’s concrete or pavement around the property. In this scenario, holes are drilled through the surface, filled with chemical and sealed with small caps. The installation process can take several hours to complete with most taking approximately 6 hours.
Before a chemical termite barrier can be installed, a timber pest inspection must be completed to ensure there are no active termites within the property. If there has been a previous termite infestation, it is recommended that all previous damage be repaired before the barrier is installed. Since old termite entry and damage is highly conducive to another termite attack in future. As the previous tunnels created by the termites provide easy access.
Limitations to a chemical termite barrier
It is important to remember that there is no termite management system currently available that guarantees 100% protection. This includes chemical termite barriers. Termites are stealthy creatures and can enter a home by various methods – not just through the ground. It is rare but termites can enter a home through the roof by climbing along branches that overhang gutters or by flight. Termites can develop wings for breeding purposes as they will fly away from the current colony to create their own.
Similarly, a termite barrier can be compromised by other means. Such as landscaping and excessive digging by dogs. If this occurs, termites can enter the building through the section of the compromised barrier.
Regardless, chemical termite barriers are the most effective system currently available. As they provide long-lasting, effective protection against subterranean termite entry.
Follow-up maintenance
It is important to get a timber pest inspection every 12 months to ensure the barrier has not been compromised and is maintained to a high standard. If any disruptions to the barrier have occurred, it’s important to detect this early before any termites move in or damage occurs. The current cost for a timber pest inspection at Dedant Building and Pest Inspection starts from $250.
How much does a chemical termite barrier cost?
The chemical termite barrier cost varies depending on the size of the installation. As the barrier is installed around the perimeter of a building, the cost is based on measurements taken around the exterior of the home. Prices typically start from $2,000 but can be more depending on the size.
Compared to the amount of damage caused by termites if left undetected, the cost of a termite chemical barrier is a good investment.
Are they safe for children and pets?
Once the barrier has been installed and dried, it is safe for children and pets to play in the yard. We recommend keeping pets and children inside while the barrier is installed. The liquid chemical takes approximately 3-4 hours to dry.
Get your home protected today!
To book a chemical termite barrier or enquire about the best termite management system for your home, contact us today. Call us on 07 3807 0122 or fill out the contact form on our website.
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