Approved methods of preventative termite control are covered by Australian Standard AS 3660.1 (2000). Remedial termite control is covered by AS 3660.2 (2000).

It is important to remember that building construction is variable, and the building owner should consider the following points:

• the construction type (slab on ground, suspended timber or concrete floors, additions, etc)
• the types of materials used in construction
• the soil type
• sloping blocks
• the size of the building
• the size of land area
• The age of the building.

South Australia has a varied climate from cooler temperate climate to a humid hot climate. Such variations are important to remember when considering termite control methods. Should one particular method work well for one house in one area, it may not work as well for a second area.

Remedial treatment:

This is undertaken when an infestation in a house has been identified. Termite activity is identified by the observation of live termites, usually after carefully opening the damaged wood or mud workings. Disturbance of the termites should be kept to a minimum once the presence of termite activity is found. Call an Aardvark Pest Control expert for assistance.

In SA the nest can often be difficult to locate, however if found it may be possible to destroy it directly.

Check any trees, stumps, wood stockpiles or other areas that may harbour termites within 50 metres of the building or within the boundaries of the property. The nest can be destroyed by complete removal or by application of a chemical insecticide.

Even though the nest is found, or not found, it's important to administer a preventative treatment to protect the building from continued or future termite attack. Remedial treatments generally use chemicals or termite baits in one form or another.

The chemicals can be applied as:

• A termite management system
• Insecticidal dusts
• Monitoring baiting stations.

Termite management systems

A chemical soil barrier can be applied under and/or around the Building in a similar fashion to a preventative chemical soil termite management system.

Chemicals can be applied to the sub-floor areas of infested buildings also to external perimeters as required. These can be liquid formulations and or insecticidal dusts.

Insecticidal Dusts

Insecticidal dusts can only be used by licensed professional pest controllers. The pest controller applies a small amount of insecticidal dust containing a chemical active ingredient into the area infested by termites

The insecticidal dust settles onto the termites, which then carry the dust back to the nest. The termites clean themselves of the insecticidal dust and ingest the active ingredient. Grooming is a social activity so the active ingredient is spread throughout the colony.

If enough active ingredient is ingested, then it is possible to eliminate the colony.

Monitor and Bait Systems

Monitoring and baiting systems concentrate termites into a bait station and then feed the termites a palatable food containing an active ingredient.

The termites collect the bait, return it the colony, and so spread the active ingredient throughout the colony. If enough active ingredient is ingested, then it is possible to eliminate the colony.

Note: Chemical treatments are only available to licensed pest controllers.

For information regarding other services please contact us.