Subterranean termites and dry wood termites can both cause damage the wood in your homes. Subterranean termites live in both soil and wood. These creatures prefer moist environments for colonization. In general, subterranean termites thrive beneath homes, wreaking havoc on wooden foundations.
While both subterranean and dry wood termites can cause significant damage to your home, the latter is significantly more destructive. This is because they reside indoors, in dry wood. As a result, we’ll focus on dry wood termite treatment.
Termite Infestation Identification
- Keep an eye out for woodwork cracks. Tap or push against it with a pointed object. If it is easily knocked over, this is a sign of termites in wooden framing.
- Look for sawdust, wood-colored termite droppings, or termite wings near chipped or cracked furniture.
- Mud tube formations on the house’s walls indicate the presence of subterranean termites.
Termite Extermination Tips
Seeking professional termite treatment on the Gold Coast should be your first option. However, if you would like to have a go yourself and then call Top Dog Pest Control, the following do-it-yourself tips will help you attempt to treat your termite issues:
Exposure to the Sun
Termites prefer humid, dark habitats. Therefore, allow 2-3 days for infested area to be exposed to direct sunlight. Termites are extremely heat sensitive and die quickly. This method aids in the removal of moisture from the wood, which helps prevent further infestation.
Construct a Cardboard Trap
Cardboard is composed of cellulose and emits an unmistakable woody odor that termites cannot stand. Moisten it with water to enhance the odor and place it near the affected area. Within a few hours, termites are attracted to the open cardboard. Eliminate it or burn it to prevent termites from infesting wooden furniture.
Boric Acid Spray
Apply a solution of borax powder and water to the affected areas. It is a non-toxic method that, after a few applications your termites could vanish from the wood. Additionally, you can use this method in conjunction with the cardboard trap for the best results.
Utilization of Parasitic Nematodes
Parasitic nematodes are small worms that burrow into termite larvae and kill them within two days. If you can’t manage to get your hands onto some parasitic nematodes, then Top Dog Pest Control should be your first call for a termite treatment on the Gold Coast.
Treatments for Oils
Additionally, orange and neem oil can be effective. The former contains a chemical called d-limonene, which is extremely toxic to termites when it comes into contact. On the other hand, once termites consume neem oil, it becomes effective. To achieve the best results, pour or spray these oils repeatedly over the affected areas.
Separation of soil and wood
By establishing colonies beneath the foundation of your home, termites can wreak havoc. The most effective method is to build your home away from your lawn or garden to avoid this. According to experts, the distance between your house and your garden should be at least 18 inches.
Prevent Termites from Destroying your Furniture
Prevention is always preferable when looking for a termite treatment on the Gold Coast. As a result, the following steps can be taken to avert termite infestation:
- Avoid exposing your wood to moisture
- Apply aloe Vera gel to wooden furniture regularly to act as a protective coating.
- Invest in a high-quality wood polish and have it professionally applied to all wooden furniture.
- Remove any unwanted wooden items from your home as they serve as breeding grounds for pests.
- If you live in a coastal city, schedule professional chemical treatment regularly.
As you can see there are many options available for those that wish to try to eradicate their termite issue themselves. We believe that while it may be nice to think that you can eradicate your termites on your own, the easiest way is to speak to the experts at Top Dog. At Top Dog Pest Control, we strive to provide the highest quality termite treatment on the Gold Coast with a personal touch and superior service. Top Dog Pest Control’s primary goal is to make each client a lifelong client. We are capable of providing virtually any type of pest control solution.
