What Businesses Need to Know About Subterranean Termites

Termites are like the ninja assassins of the insect world - silent, sneaky, and deadly. And when it comes to subterranean termites, they take their ninja skills to the next level by living underground. These pests may not be visible, but their damage to buildings and structures can be catastrophic for businesses. As a business owner, it's essential to understand the behaviour of subterranean termites, the signs of infestation, and the prevention methods and treatment options available.

The Behaviour of Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites are social insects that live in large colonies underground. They feed on wood and other cellulose materials, making them a significant threat to buildings and their contents. These termites build mud tubes to travel above ground and find food sources. They're most active during the warmer months and will typically swarm in the springtime to establish new colonies.

Signs of Infestation

There are several signs that a business may have a subterranean termite infestation. These include:

1. Mud Tubes: These are tubes made of soil and other materials that termites use to travel above ground. They're usually found on the exterior of buildings, along foundations, and in crawl spaces.

2. Wood Damage: Subterranean termites feed on wood and other cellulose materials, leaving behind damage that can weaken structures and compromise their integrity. Look for buckling floors, sagging ceilings, and hollow-sounding wood.

3. Swarmers: Termite swarmers are winged insects that leave the colony to establish new ones. They are often mistaken for flying ants, but they have straight antennae and wings of equal size.

Prevention Methods

Preventing a subterranean termite infestation is key to protecting your business from damage. Here are some prevention methods that businesses can use:

1. Eliminate Moisture: Subterranean termites thrive in moist environments, so it's essential to eliminate any sources of moisture. Fix any leaks, improve ventilation, and ensure that gutters and downspouts are directing water away from the building.

2. Remove Wood Debris: Termites are attracted to wood debris, such as fallen trees and branches. Remove any wood debris from around the building to reduce the risk of infestation.

3. Install Physical Barriers: Physical barriers, such as metal mesh and concrete, can prevent termites from entering buildings through cracks and crevices. These barriers need to be installed during construction or as part of a retrofit.

Treatment Options

If a business does have a subterranean termite infestation, there are several treatment options available. These include:

1. Chemical Treatments: Chemical treatments involve applying termiticides to the soil around the building to create a barrier that termites cannot cross. This treatment is effective but can be expensive and may require multiple applications.

2. Baiting Systems: Baiting systems involve placing bait stations around the building that contain a slow-acting toxic substance. The termites will feed on the bait and take it back to the colony, eventually killing the entire colony.

3. Heat Treatments: Heat treatments involve heating the building to a temperature that is lethal to termites. This treatment is effective but can be expensive and may require the building to be vacated during the treatment.

Final Thoughts

Subterranean termites are a significant threat to businesses in Australia. Their behaviour, signs of infestation, prevention methods, and treatment options are all important to understand. By taking preventative measures and addressing any infestations promptly, businesses can protect themselves from the damage that these pests can cause. If you suspect your business has a subterranean termite infestation, it's important to contact a pest control professional for an inspection and treatment recommendation.

Get rid of subterranean termites in your commercial space with the help of D-Day Pest Control. We are a pest control company that provides termite removal in Geelong. We aim to solve your pest control problem as quickly as possible whilst minimising any disruptions to your business operations. Request a quote now!