Did you know that Sydney is at the second rank when it comes to termite attacks in Australia? Well! It’s not us, but the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) itself acknowledged this fact. This implies that property owners in Sydney must take all the necessary precautions or measures (in case the damage is done) to minimize the risk of termite infestation.
Surprisingly, more than 300 species of termites with more than 30 species can potentially harm the buildings or structures. In fact, most suburbs in Sydney get plagued with termites at least once a year. Are you also stressed with the termite infestation this year? Not anymore!
Before we go on to tell you the measures, let’s focus on the aspects as to why you should get rid of termites in the first place.
Image by Roy Buri
Termites in- Home’s Real Estate Value Goes Down
Remember, termites are living beings that require food to survive. But unfortunately, what they relish is something that you won’t like. Do you know what that is? Umm… it’s your drywall coverings, furniture, boxes, books, and above all, wood. And I need not tell you that all or some of these objects are a part of your home as well. Isn’t it?
The moment they see wooden furniture and the moisture-laden area or cracks, it will snoop inside your home without you knowing. But that’s not the only problem. All this activity impacts a home’s value in many different ways.
Do you know what it could be? Let’s find out now.
It Lowers Your Home’s Appeal
When it comes to homes, we can’t refer to the phrase, “one has to look at the inner beauty.” If your home doesn’t look appealing, the value will automatically go down. Plus, with termites, there is a risk of structural damage as well. In other words, termites can eat away the support beams of your home. It not only weakens the structure but also poses a threat to the aesthetics of the house. All of this combined affects the final resale or retail value of the home or the property.
It Puts Your Home at The Risk of Never-ending Renovations
As we mentioned above, termite infestation impacts the structural integrity of a home. So, you would need to look for solutions for home renovations or replacing furniture damaged by termites. But if you do not take care of the underlying cause, it will always result in expensive repairs and renovation.
It Eats Your Wooden Furniture
Termites love wood. And remember, they have a huge appetite. So whenever they infest a place, they can damage all the furniture, carpets, or anything fibrous. Why? Because all such objects have higher cellulose content.
Let’s get the facts straight. When selling a home, you have to disclose the information regarding any structural defects, including pest infestation. And if the buyers get to know about the termite issues, they will automatically counter offer the price lower than expected.
And that’s not all.
Termite infestation causes several health-related problems as well. In fact, there are many cases where termite infestation led to oral myiasis. Wait! There’s more.
Health Concerns Related to Termite Infestations
Termite pellets or excreta are harmful to humans. Since they are wooden colored, it might cause contact dermatitis or any allergic reaction when touched with the bare skin. It might also cause inflammation or itching.
Further, the same issue can trigger asthmatic reactions. This is because when termites start attacking the wood, they drive the formation of mold. And mold spores cause severe health problems. This is significantly more dangerous to children or people with lower immunity.
Unfortunately, termites can also damage the electrical wiring of your home. This is especially the case with the termites having strong jaws. So, this increases the chances of electrocution. That’s putting everyone at risk. Isn’t it?
It doesn’t end there!
It will create a negative image of your property in the minds of prospective buyers as well. I am sure none of you would ever want that to happen in your home or yourself. Right?
But what about the times when you have clearly no idea if there is an infestation in your home? Don’t worry. We’ve covered that for you.
How to Know if Your Home is Infested With Termites?
Surprisingly, termite infestation is worth $5 billion in damages to the property. Protecting your home is the best way to avoid such financial burdens on your pocket. Sadly, this is not even covered in your home insurance as well.
So, you must either call a reputable company providing Pest Control Sydney services for the termite inspection, or you can do the initial assessment by yourself. Don’t have any idea where to start? Let us help you with that.
Wood Floor Appears as if there is a Water Damage
When the termite starts feeding, it starts leaving blisters. In fact, certain subterranean termites impact the subfloors, which starts giving a vibe of water damage.
Damaged Wooden Furniture
You can look for the damage behind surfaces, such as walls, floors, and other surfaces. This happens because termites keep on chewing surfaces in search of food, i.e., cellulose. Hence, leaving behind long grooves. After some time, these grooves start weakening the foundation of the structure, resulting in expensive damages.
Termite Wings Lying Near Windows, Doors, or Other Accessible Points
This is quite prevalent when termites start their search for mates and swarm out of their nests. So, upon landing, they twist their wings since they won’t need them again.
Presence of Mud Tubes and Droppings
Termites often make their nests near a food source or shed. These mud tubes help them to maintain temperature and humidity levels. One species of termite, i.e., dry wood termites, form their nest within the wood. So, mostly they kick their excreta, which looks like sawdust, pellets, or coffee grounds.
Remember: Even if you don’t see any of the signs, it’s advisable to contact a pest control or exterminator for a thorough inspection of your property.
Do you still think calling pest control is a hassle? The following reasons will help you think otherwise.
Why do You Need to Hire Professional Pest Control Services?
Who likes uninvited guests? I am sure the answer would be a “no.” Unless they are your best buddies, but termites can’t have the same tag as your besties, right? Especially when their entire colony starts taking your home as their place.
It goes without saying that the DIY route might seem more convenient. But it won’t have long term effects as that of a professional service. Here’s why?
They Know How to Use Chemicals Safely
When it comes to pest control, you require the use of potentially hazardous chemicals. And it is no surprise that not everyone is well versed in using those chemicals. It would really not be a good idea to rely on the internet for using such chemicals. You will put yourself at risk, including your family.
Technicians from the pest control company have all the training and information to handle these things without impacting anyone.
They Know How to do it The Right Way
As they say, “one size does not fit all.” The same goes for pest control services as well. Not every termite or pests can be treated or killed using the same method. In fact, employing the wrong methods can turn out to be dangerous instead.
With the experts, you can avoid any such incidences from taking place. Plus, they will provide you with the plans that will suit your home—for instance, the level of infestation, long-term prevention, or others to maximize the benefits.
They Can Find The Possible Places of Infestation
Killing the termites once won’t be a long term solution. So, the service providers will identify the root cause of the infestation and provide you with the solutions that there won’t be any future infestation issues.
Other than these, hiring professional services will ensure that there are no property damages due to the infestation. And the best part is all of this proves to be a cost-effective solution. How? Because you don’t have to worry about maintenance and repairs any further.
Plus, as we mentioned before, they will advise on the prevention of infestation of termites.
In The End
No one wants to ruin the aesthetic appeal of their house. This is why people spend hundreds of dollars every other year on renovations and remodeling. But with a termite infestation, everything can turn into an utter mess.
So, make sure you take proper care of your house so that termites don’t get attracted. For instance, moisture or water accumulation near the home’s foundation is like a heaven for termites. Take some time to look into the leaky pipes and water damaged wood to halt the termite attack.
Other than that, it’s the wood that can attract the termites towards your place. So, make sure you keep a check on them regularly to avoid pest infestation. The best thing to do is to get your house regularly inspected by pest control companies to prevent extensive damage.
So,
Is your home free from termites?
