Is Your Home Heaven for Termites?
Termites and Timber Pests are a big problem within Perth. As summer approaches Cap-It-All Building Inspections are finding termites and timber pests within more and more of the homes we are inspecting. In the homes we aren’t finding termites we are finding conditions that are conducive to termite attack. Below we explore a few things to look out for within your home that may be creating conditions that encourage termites to attack your property.
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Sources of water discharging to inadequate areas:
Not only can excessive moisture around the outside of your home contribute to the instability of foundation in the long run, it may also encourage termites to attack your property. Wet timber is the ideal source of food for termites – that is what they are searching for. It is for this reason that all sources of moisture including downpipes, bib/garden taps, hot water system overflow pipes and air conditioning pipes should be connected to an adequate source of drainage. Ideally, all of the aforementioned should be connected to a drain which runs to a soakwell.
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Example of a downpipe discharging to an inadequate area creating conducive conditions for termite attack.
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Example of where timber sleepers and tree stumps are in contact with the ground creating conducive conditions for termite attack.
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Timber in contact with the ground:
Timber in contact with the ground is not only easily accessible to termites, it may be subject to moisture which provides an extremely satisfying and easy meal for a termite. Additionally, timber in contact with the ground may be affected by fungal decay which can affect most types of timbers. Fungal decay will cause the timber to break away and flake, which also makes it easier for a termite to attack and eat. |
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Leaking gutters:
If guttering is not correctly maintained, it may decay and perforate over time. Termites love moisture so leaky gutters are creating conditions which are conducive to termite attack, as are any other leaks. Especially if the moisture is dripping on to a nice, yummy piece of timber!! |
Example of rusted gutters causing leaking, this creates conditions conducive to termite attack.
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Example of pavers and tiles stored against a property, providing concealed entry for termites.
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Breaches to termite barrier:
A termite barrier is put in place to protect your home from termite attack. Breaches to the barrier may be created which may provide concealed entry for termites. Examples of this include shingle, paving and concrete that cover the slab edge, garden beds that are directly against the home and bricks and pavers stored against a property. It is a lot easier to detect termites if you can probe timbers and physically view them, if they have managed to get in your home undetected through concealed entry they may have already caused damage by the time you can see them! |
Have a look around your home and ensure the above conducive conditions do not exist – it may save you thousands in repairs relating to termite damage. If you’re purchasing a home and would like your home inspected for termites and timber pests be sure to call the team at Cap-It-All Building Inspections Perth.
