How long does a termite treatment last?
By HOUSPECT Building and Pest Inspections|January 14, 2021
There are many variants to this question, so without sounding dismissive, it really does come down to a number of factors.
The chemicals used, how it is applied and who installs your barrier treatment are all factors that contribute to the longevity of your barrier treatment.
How long does a chemical termite barrier last?
Many years ago (20+ years), homes were built with a termite barrier treatment that was installed under the slab. They only lasted 12 months if that, as it was a requirement that new builds had to include something, but there were no guidelines as to how long it was expected to last.
With more advanced technology and companies now providing far superior products, there are products available on the market now that will last up to 8-10 years.
Legislation changed to protect the homeowner (between 2001 – 2004), with the building code stipulating that chemical treatments on a new build could not be used unless it was able to be re-added (replenished), over time to ensure that it remained effective.
This then led to a physical termite barrier.
How long does a physical termite barrier last?
A physical barrier is installed during the construction stage of a new home build; it sits around the perimeter of the house against the brickwork.
It is a compulsory part of the building code and it’s important that your builder includes this as part of your tender.
These types of barriers can last for up to 20 years, but they are not as effective as a chemical barrier. Obviously, having a physical barrier is better than having nothing at all, but it’s important to remember that it is not fool proof and you may still end up with a termite infestation
What is a Termite Bait Station?
These are alternative treatment options but are a lot different to other barriers available. Bait stations are designed to act as an early warning indicator, which allows homeowners to act prior to any substantial damage taking place.
A lot more time and effort is required by the homeowner to maintain these, they usually need to be checked and replenished on a monthly basis. If active termites are found, then another bait is added to eliminate the colony.
Does a longer lifespan mean more efficiency?
In short, no. Many products available today offer a longer lifespan, but this can be misleading and inaccurate. Some products that offer a longer lifespan act as a repellent that termites will avoid if they detect certain products in the soil, meaning that product is then useless.
Termites are clever, they will work around particular products and still find a way to make it into your home.
Speak to your trusted pest provider and ask what options are available that best suit your home and block. You want to use a product that goes undetected by termites and allows them to take the chemical back to their main nest, which will then result in their colony being eliminated.
How much do termite treatments costs?
There are many factors to consider when obtaining a quote for a termite treatment including whether you use a physical or chemical barrier as well as the size of your home and land layout.
Concerned that you have active termites?
It’s important to ensure you do your research and find a reputable pest inspector/company to provide you with an appropriate course of action.
The chemicals used, how it is applied and who installs your barrier treatment are all factors that contribute to the longevity of your barrier treatment.
How long does a chemical termite barrier last?
Many years ago (20+ years), homes were built with a termite barrier treatment that was installed under the slab. They only lasted 12 months if that, as it was a requirement that new builds had to include something, but there were no guidelines as to how long it was expected to last.
With more advanced technology and companies now providing far superior products, there are products available on the market now that will last up to 8-10 years.
Legislation changed to protect the homeowner (between 2001 – 2004), with the building code stipulating that chemical treatments on a new build could not be used unless it was able to be re-added (replenished), over time to ensure that it remained effective.
This then led to a physical termite barrier.
How long does a physical termite barrier last?
A physical barrier is installed during the construction stage of a new home build; it sits around the perimeter of the house against the brickwork.
It is a compulsory part of the building code and it’s important that your builder includes this as part of your tender.
These types of barriers can last for up to 20 years, but they are not as effective as a chemical barrier. Obviously, having a physical barrier is better than having nothing at all, but it’s important to remember that it is not fool proof and you may still end up with a termite infestation
What is a Termite Bait Station?
These are alternative treatment options but are a lot different to other barriers available. Bait stations are designed to act as an early warning indicator, which allows homeowners to act prior to any substantial damage taking place.
A lot more time and effort is required by the homeowner to maintain these, they usually need to be checked and replenished on a monthly basis. If active termites are found, then another bait is added to eliminate the colony.
Does a longer lifespan mean more efficiency?
In short, no. Many products available today offer a longer lifespan, but this can be misleading and inaccurate. Some products that offer a longer lifespan act as a repellent that termites will avoid if they detect certain products in the soil, meaning that product is then useless.
Termites are clever, they will work around particular products and still find a way to make it into your home.
Speak to your trusted pest provider and ask what options are available that best suit your home and block. You want to use a product that goes undetected by termites and allows them to take the chemical back to their main nest, which will then result in their colony being eliminated.
How much do termite treatments costs?
There are many factors to consider when obtaining a quote for a termite treatment including whether you use a physical or chemical barrier as well as the size of your home and land layout.
Concerned that you have active termites?
It’s important to ensure you do your research and find a reputable pest inspector/company to provide you with an appropriate course of action.
