What is a Termite Barrier?

May 16, 2021

Termites are as ingenious as they are destructive. Without proper protection in place, it's all too easy for termites to burrow into the foundations or walls of your property.

Once there, they can cause significant damage in a relatively small period of time. In extreme cases, termites have been known to destroy property in just a few months.

Whilst termite protection is now a requirement for new-build properties, older homes especially are still very vulnerable.

To protect their home (as well as to reduce the risk of needing periodic termite infestation treatments), homeowners are increasingly considering the installation of termite barriers to protect their property.

If you are unsure about what a termite barrier is and if your property needs one, read on to find out more, as well as additional information on how termite barrier installation on the Sunshine Coast can safeguard your home into the future.

What is a Termite Barrier?

As the name suggests, a termite barrier is literally a barrier that's put in place around a property to keep termites out.

Termite barriers are designed to deter even the most determined termite, which means it's rare for an infestation to occur once barriers are in place. There are two main types of termite barrier: physical and chemical.

A Close Up Of A Piece Of Wood With Termites Coming Out Of It — Suncoast Termite & Pest In Nambour, QLD

Physical termite barriers

Physical termite barriers are made of a material that termites can't burrow through, such as stainless steel or concrete.

New-build homes frequently incorporate a solid concrete base, which extends out beyond the walls of the property. This stops termites from penetrating.

For older homes, it's possible to install a barrier of stainless steel plates around the house, which prevents the termites from gaining access into the home.

Membranes are another type of physical barrier. These not only keep termites out but can also be used to control dampness and improve ventilation.

Chemical termite barriers

Chemical termite barriers also deter termites. Modern chemical barriers are designed to be environmentally friendly and also safe for use around pets and children.

To enhance effectiveness, chemical barriers often include a bait that attracts the termites, drawing them away from the property before they're killed.

Chemical barriers require more maintenance than physical barriers, but do provide effective control and are a good option for properties where physical barriers aren't a suitable option.

Chemical barriers are also more adaptable than physical options; they can be used for outhouses or sheds as well as to protect homes.

Other measures to take

Termite barriers are just one of several measures that can be put in place to reduce the risk of a termite infestation.

Regular inspection of the barriers by a suitable pest control professional to check their integrity is also important.

In addition, simple measures such as not having a woodpile, deadwood, or overgrown ground close to the property's walls are all effective in reducing the risk of termites managing to penetrate the property.

A reputable pest control company will be able to advise on the type of preventative termite barrier that's going to work best for your home and your household.

You can contact our termite control experts for more advice and information on termite barriers on the Sunshine Coast. For details on how we can protect your home from termites and to book an initial inspection, get in touch today.

< Older Post Newer Post >