Termite Barrier Cost: A Comprehensive Guide

by seo | Oct 27, 2024 | Termites

Termite barriers are an essential measure for protecting homes in Australia, where termite infestations are both common and potentially devastating. The damage caused by termites can lead to repair costs amounting to tens of thousands of dollars.

According to CSIRO, termite damage in Australia can exceed $10,000 per property, underscoring the importance of preventive measures. By investing in high-quality termite barriers, homeowners can ensure long-term safety, cost savings, and peace of mind. This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth look at termite barrier types, their costs, influencing factors, and the long-term benefits of termite protection.

What Does Termite Barrier Cost Look Like?

Understanding the cost of termite barriers involves recognising the factors contributing to the overall expense. According to Pest Control Australia, the average termite barrier cost in Australia typically ranges from $1,500 to $5,000, but this can vary based on barrier type, property size, and specific location.

Cost Variations by Type of Barrier

Chemical Barriers:

Typical Cost: $30 to $40 per linear metre. These costs are standard for chemical treatments.
Total Cost Range: Usually $1,800 to $3,500 for a typical property according to Australian Environmental Pest Managers Association.
Reapplication Requirement: Every 5 to 8 years, depending on conditions and product quality based on Termite Control Solutions.
Effectiveness: Creates a chemical-treated zone in the soil to deter termites from approaching the foundation.

Physical Barriers:

Cost Range: Between $2,000 and $4,000 for standard residential properties, according to HomeGuard Termite Protection..
Types: Stainless steel mesh, concrete barriers, and crushed granite.
Durability: Offers a long-term, non-chemical solution that can last as long as the building itself if properly installed.

Key Cost-Influencing Factors

Installation Fees: Professional expertise can add $500 to $1,000 or more, depending on complexity.
Material Quality: Premium materials can increase expenses but provide better durability and effectiveness.
Property Size: Larger homes need more extensive treatments, increasing both material and labour costs.
Cost per Metre: Calculated based on the property’s perimeter and areas requiring protection.

Types of Termite Barrier System

There are two main categories of termite barrier systems: chemical and physical. Each offers unique advantages and considerations, depending on property needs and environmental concerns.

Chemical Barriers

Chemical barriers use termiticides to create a treated zone around the property. These solutions are designed to either repel or kill termites upon contact. effective treatments.

Installation Process: A trench is dug around the property, filled with termiticide, and covered back up. This process requires professional handling to ensure effective application.
Duration of Protection: 5 to 8 years, after which reapplication is recommended.
Pros: Provides immediate deterrence and can be integrated with other pest control measures.
Cons: Needs regular maintenance and may involve chemicals that some homeowners prefer to avoid.

Physical Barriers

Physical barriers prevent termites from accessing the structure by creating an impenetrable layer.

Termite Mesh: A fine, stainless steel mesh that acts as a shield around vulnerable areas of a building.
Concrete Barriers: Often incorporated during the construction phase to create an unbreakable seal.
Crushed Granite or Sand Barriers: Designed to prevent termites from tunneling through.
Advantages: Chemical-free, long-lasting, and eco-friendly.
Drawbacks: Higher initial cost compared to some chemical treatments.

Factors Influencing Termite Barrier Costs

So what does the cost of termite barrier treatments look like? Several variables influence the cost of installing termite barriers, making it important for homeowners to understand these elements when budgeting for termite protection.

Property Size: Larger properties require more termiticide or more extensive physical barrier coverage.
Type of Barrier: Physical barriers often have higher upfront costs but require minimal maintenance.
Property Location:
- Urban Areas: Typically have higher service charges due to greater demand and higher operational costs.
- Suburban Areas: Costs can vary based on service availability and competition among pest control providers.
- Rural Areas: While initial prices may be lower, fewer providers might mean less choice and potential additional travel fees for technicians.
Soil and Site Conditions: Properties with rocky or uneven terrain may require additional preparation, increasing labour and material costs.
Wet or Clay-Heavy Soils: May also affect the type of chemical treatment applied, impacting the overall price.

Eco-Friendly and Safe Barrier Options

For environmentally conscious homeowners, choosing eco-friendly termite barrier solutions is an excellent way to maintain safety while protecting the property.

Non-Toxic Chemical Solutions: Derived from naturally sourced ingredients that provide termite deterrence without harming pets, children, or beneficial insects.
Physical Barriers: Mesh systems and concrete provide long-lasting, chemical-free solutions (Australian Environment Protection Authority).
Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Combines physical barriers with eco-friendly treatments to create a robust, sustainable defence system.

Long-Term Benefits of Installing Termite Barriers

Investing in termite barriers provides extensive benefits that extend beyond immediate termite prevention:

Property Protection: Prevents structural damage, preserving the value and integrity of the home.
Long-Term Cost Savings: Reduces the likelihood of significant repair expenses, which can range from $10,000 to $50,000 or more in severe cases.
Increased Home Equity: Homes with documented termite protection measures are more attractive to buyers and may command a higher sale price.
Preventive Care: Regular maintenance and inspections ensure the barrier remains effective, offering continual peace of mind.

Cost Examples by Region (Urban, Suburban, Rural)

Termite barrier costs in Australia can differ significantly based on location:

Urban Areas (e.g., Sydney, Melbourne):
- Typical cost for chemical barriers: $3,000 to $5,000 as per Sydney Pest Management Reports.
- Physical barriers: $3,500 to $7,000, reflecting higher labour rates and material transport costs.
Suburban Areas:
- Chemical treatments generally range from $2,500 to $4,000.
- Physical barriers average around $3,000 to $5,000.
Rural Areas:
- Lower starting prices, often between $1,500 and $3,500, but may incur extra fees for travel and limited availability of services.

Don’t delay your termite inspection, speak to our expert team

or

8371 1277

Conclusion

Choosing the right termite barrier is essential for safeguarding your property and ensuring long-term cost-effectiveness. We at Allstate Pest Control offer guidance, comprehensive inspections, and eco-friendly termite protection tailored to your needs. Protect your investment and gain peace of mind—contact Allstate Pest today for a personalised quote or a detailed property inspection.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average cost of a termite barrier?

The typical cost ranges from $1,500 to $5,000, depending on barrier type and property specifics.

How do I choose the best termite barrier for my home?

Assess factors like property size, budget, and environmental concerns. Consulting with experts like Allstate Pest Control can help identify the most suitable option.

Are termite barriers safe for pets and children?

Yes, especially eco-friendly barriers and non-toxic chemical treatments that ensure safety for all household members.

How often should chemical termite barriers be reapplied?

Generally, every 5 to 8 years, but conditions and products may extend or shorten this timeframe.

Can installing a termite barrier increase my home’s value?

Yes, termite protection adds significant value by assuring potential buyers that the property is safeguarded against termites.

Is there a notable difference in termite barrier costs between urban and rural areas?

Yes, urban properties often face higher service charges, while rural homes may have more competitive rates but less provider choice.

Top 20 Common Household Bugs in Australia

by seo | Oct 20, 2024 | Bed Bug

Maintaining a safe, pest-free home in Australia means understanding and managing the common household bugs that frequently invade residential spaces. Identifying common household bugs in Australia promptly is essential for prevention and eco-friendly pest control. Here’s an overview of the most common household pests and practical prevention strategies.

Overview of Common Household Bugs Australia

Australia’s climate and varied ecosystems make it a hotspot for diverse household pests. Many of these common household bugs have adapted to thrive in residential environments, especially due to the warm and humid conditions present in many regions. Understanding and identifying common household bugs in Australia is essential for proactive pest control and maintaining a healthy living space.

From tiny coastal brown ants to larger venomous spiders, each household pest poses unique challenges that require specific prevention methods. Seasonal shifts often lead to fluctuations in pest activity, prompting homeowners to stay vigilant year-round. Effective pest control management helps in the identification of common household bugs in Australia, preventing health risks and potential property damage caused by these common household insects.

The warmer months often spike in pest activity, with common pests like German cockroaches and bed bugs becoming more active. These household pests cause discomfort and can spread diseases and wreak havoc on homes if left untreated.

Rodent infestation, such as mice infestation, adds to the challenges by damaging food materials and contaminating spaces. Partnering with a professional pest control company to tackle serious issues effectively ensures that extensive damage is minimised and household safety is maintained over a decade of use and habitation.

Ants: Small but Troublesome

Identification and Impact
Australian homes commonly host black house ants, carpenter ants, and coastal brown ants. Coastal brown ants are light brown and often infest kitchens and bathrooms, leading to an ant infestation. Carpenter ants, while less common, can cause significant damage by nesting in wood.

Habitats and Prevention
Ants found in homes thrive in warm environments near food and water. Effective prevention methods include:

Seal Food Containers: Store food securely in airtight containers to avoid attracting ants.
Clean Surfaces: Regularly clean to remove food traces and crumbs.
Natural Repellents: Use eco-friendly deterrents like vinegar or citrus peels to deter ants moving into the home.

Cockroaches: Persistent House Invaders

Identification and Health Risks
Cockroach infestations in Australian homes typically involve German and Australian cockroaches. These common small bugs in houses in Australia spread diseases and can cause common diseases such as infectious jaundice. Cockroaches are particularly problematic in commercial properties due to their ability to contaminate food materials.

Signs of Infestation

Droppings: Tiny black specks near food sources.
Shed Skins: Skin sheds are found in dark, humid areas.
Odour: A musty smell indicating a severe infestation.

Control Strategies

Sanitation: Maintain cleanliness in food areas to deter household pests.
Seal Entry Points: Caulk gaps around skirting boards and windows.
Child-Safe Sprays: Use non-toxic pest control solutions.

Spiders: Common Arachnid Visitors

Common Species and Risks
Huntsman spiders and redback spiders are household pests commonly found in Australia. Redbacks, which are venomous spiders, pose severe risks due to their painful stings. Spiders can be life-threatening if left untreated, mainly if bites result from species like redbacks.

Prevention Tips

Declutter: Minimise areas where spiders can hide, particularly in warmer months.
Seal Cracks: Ensure doors and windows are properly sealed to keep house insects out.
Natural Deterrents: Use peppermint oil as a repellent to reduce the presence of these dangerous creatures.

Don’t delay your termite inspection, speak to our expert team

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8371 1277

Termites: The Hidden Threat

Damage and Detection
Termite infestation is notorious for causing significant damage. White ants, or subterranean termites, can wreak havoc by feeding on wood and potentially damaging electrical cables, posing severe threats if left untreated.

Signs of Termite Infestation

Hollow-Sounding Wood: A sign of internal damage.
Mud Tubes: Pathways for movement.
Discarded Wings: Found near windows and doors.

Prevention and Control

Routine Inspections: Annual checks with a professional pest control company are vital.
Moisture Control: Keep basements and other damp areas dry to prevent infestations.
Non-Toxic Treatments: Use eco-friendly termite barriers to avoid extensive damage.

Bed Bugs: Silent Nighttime Nuisances

Identification and Impact
Bed bug infestations can disrupt sleep and cause severe itching. Bed bugs are small, reddish-brown insects often hiding in bed frames and mattresses.

Signs of Bed Bug Infestation

Blood Stains: Found on sheets or pillowcases.
Excrement Spots: Dark spots on mattresses.
Live Bugs: Seen in mattress seams.

Treatment Options

Heat Treatment: Kills all life stages of bed bugs.
Mattress Encasements: Protects against further infestation.
Natural Solutions: Use non-toxic sprays safe for pets and children to control these common household pests.

Moths: Uninvited Closet Guests

Common Species
Clothes moths and pantry moths are common household pests in Australia. Pantry moths infest food supplies, contaminating grains and pet food, while clothes moths damage fabrics.

Prevention Tips

Wardrobe Protection: Use cedar chips or lavender sachets.
Proper Food Storage: Seal pantry items securely to prevent food contamination.
Regular Inspections: Check closets and pantries for signs of moths and other household pests.

Silverfish: Ancient Home Invaders

Behaviour and Damage
Silverfish are typically nocturnal creatures that thrive in damp areas and feed on paper and fabrics. These pests can wreak havoc on stored items and cause extensive damage.

Prevention and Control

Humidity Control: Use dehumidifiers in bathrooms and other damp areas.
Sticky Traps: Set eco-friendly traps for these pests.
DIY Solutions: Apply diatomaceous earth in problem areas to combat these house insects.

Fleas: Protecting Your Pets and Home

Common Sources and Risks
Fleas, which pets can bring in, infest carpets, bedding, and upholstery. A severe infestation can lead to skin irritation and bites that result in other illnesses.

Prevention and Treatment

Pet Care: Regular flea treatments and natural shampoos help prevent infestations.
Vacuuming: Frequent vacuuming removes fleas and their eggs.
Eco-Friendly Shampoos: Use products safe for pets and humans to avoid dangerous diseases.

Other Notable Bugs to Recognise

Beetles and Weevils

Carpet beetles feed on natural fibres, causing damage to clothing and upholstery, while weevils infest pantry items, contaminating stored food materials.

Other Pests to Watch

Houseflies: Spread bacteria and common diseases.
Fruit Flies: Gather around overripe fruit.
Earwigs: Found in damp, dark places.
Millipedes and Centipedes: Often enter homes during wet weather.
Mosquitoes: Female mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, spreading dangerous diseases like dengue fever and Ross River virus through mosquito bites.
Stink Bugs and Booklice: Thrive in humid areas.
Crickets: Known for chirping and chewing on fabrics.
Paper Wasps and European Wasps: Build wasp nests and can deliver painful stings.
Rodent Infestation: Rats or mice infestation can spread diseases and cause significant structural damage.

Quick Recognition Tips

Pest Sightings: Check food storage areas for common household insects and ants.
Routine Checks: Inspect undisturbed places regularly for household bugs in Australia.
Professional Help: Contact a pest control specialist if infestations like a termite infestation or rat or mice infestation persist.

Conclusion

Eco-friendly pest control practices are essential for maintaining a safe home. Use child-safe and non-toxic solutions such as essential oil sprays and traps. For persistent problems, consult a professional pest control company like Allstate Pest Control for comprehensive, eco-friendly management. Sustainable methods protect your home and family from most common household bugs, severe damage, and other pests.

Don’t delay your termite inspection, speak to our expert team

or

8371 1277

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most common household bugs in Australia?

Ants, cockroaches, spiders, termites, and bed bugs are the most commonly found pests.

How can I identify household pests safely at home?

Regular visual inspections and recognising signs like droppings, bites, and damaged items effectively identify common household bugs.

What eco-friendly methods are best for controlling common bugs?

Use natural repellents, essential oils, and non-toxic traps to manage household pests.

When should I call a professional pest control service?

Contact a pest control specialist if DIY methods fail or for serious issues like a cockroach or termite infestation.

Are there safe pest control options for homes with children and pets?

Yes, choose child-safe and eco-friendly products like non-toxic sprays and natural deterrents.

Garden Orb Weavers: Friend or Foe?

by n.trelease@creativeserum.com | Oct 10, 2024 | Blog, Spider

With their signature webs made popular in Halloween decorations, garden orb weavers are easy to spot in gardens all across Adelaide. Learn more about whether or not this common backyard spider is worth worrying about in this Hivemind blog.

What questions will this article answer?

What is a garden orb weaver?

Known for their classic, wheel shaped webs, garden orb weavers are a common spider found in backyards all across Australia.

Benefits of having garden orb weavers in your garden

They’re great at helping to keep the insect population in your yard under control.

Are garden orb weavers dangerous?

They are not aggressive by nature and only bite if they feel threatened.

How can I tell if there are garden orb weavers in my yard?

Garden orb weavers spin distinct webs in the evenings.

Problems caused by garden orb weavers

While they rarely bite, garden orb weavers can cause anxiety in people suffering from arachnophobia.

How to avoid a garden orb weaver outbreak

We recommend regular yard maintenance, sealing off entry points, installing anti-insect night lights, clearing away existing spider webs and using insecticide sprays.

Professional spider treatment

We use a range of nontoxic treatments, including insecticide control sprays and a spider control dust.

For fast and effective spider management, choose Allstate

Available 24/7 for urgent advice, we understand spider behaviour and provide tailored, innovative solutions for all spider outbreaks.

What is a garden orb weaver?

As their name suggests, garden orb weavers are a common spider found in backyards all across Australia. You’ll find them in areas with plenty of insects, including around night lights, in tall grass, tree branches, bushes, fences and walls.

What do they look like?

With over 100 known species in Australia, they can vary in colour from tan to mottled red-brown to black and grow between 1.5 and 3cm long. They have a distinct, large lower abdomen which may have a leaf-shaped pattern or dorsal stripe.

Benefits of having garden orb weavers in your garden

Well known for spinning strong, well-made, classic wheel-shaped webs designed to trap their prey, these nocturnal creatures feast on a range of small insects, including flies, mosquitoes, beetles and moths. This means that they’re great at helping to keep the insect population in your yard under control, which is especially handy in summer!

Are garden orb weavers dangerous?

Although they can spin large webs, garden orb weavers aren’t dangerous to people. They are not aggressive by nature and only bite if they feel threatened. We don’t recommend trying to physically handle them to avoid this from happening. In the rare situations that you may receive a bite, you may experience little to no symptoms, similar to a bee sting.

Problems caused by a garden orb weaver outbreak

The good news is, garden orb weavers are typically found outside, and rarely come indoors. They’re also unlikely to bite unless provoked and their venom is considered harmless. You may experience very mild symptoms of pain and swelling, if any at all.

However, garden orb weavers can still be an issue for around 5% of people who have arachnophobia, by triggering anxiety and distress.

Watch out for their large, sticky vertical cobwebs suspended between outdoor furniture, trees and bushes at night. These webs can be difficult to see, so if you accidentally bump into them, they’ll make a mess!

Sick of bumping into spider webs? Speak to an expert today

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8371 1277

How can I tell if there are garden orb weavers in my yard?

With their signature webs made popular in Halloween decorations, garden orb weavers are easy to spot in gardens all across Adelaide.

These well-constructed, circular-shaped webs are made from strands of silk which radiate out from the centre, connected with evenly spaced spokes in between. They are typically strung up in the evenings between tree branches, bushes and outdoor furniture in your garden. Depending on the size of the spider, these webs can be up to a metre in diameter.

You’ll normally see the orb weaver sitting head down in the middle, waiting to pounce on insects that get trapped in their sticky web. They will often tear their webs down as dawn breaks.

As nocturnal creatures, garden orb weavers hide away from predators during the day. They’re usually found resting underneath foliage with their legs tucked in.

By late summer and early autumn, they’ll have matured to reach their largest size, making them easier to see out and about.

How to avoid a garden orb weaver outbreak

We recommend the following tips so you can keep garden orb weavers under control in your yard:

Regular yard maintenance

Garden orb weavers stay hidden away during the day when they aren’t spinning webs at night. Remove available hiding places by mowing your lawn and keeping tree branches and bushes trimmed, especially if they are close to the exterior walls of your home. Sweep up leaf litter and vegetation and keep pot plants clear. Store piles of wood away from your home.

Seal off entry points

Prevent spiders from entering your home by regularly inspecting your home, including the roof, for all potential access points including vents, gaps, cracks, crevices and holes. Then, fill them with caulk, silicone or cover with fine mesh screens.

Use anti-insect night lights

By changing your outdoor bulbs to the insect repellent variety, you’ll reduce the number of insects gathering around lights at night which attract garden orb weavers.

Reduce food sources

Like many spiders, garden orb weavers mainly eat insects, so if you have many other insects such as flies hanging around, then it’s more likely that spiders will follow. Keeping your home insect-free makes your home less appealing for spiders.

Clear away existing spider webs

Messy and sticky webs are not only an unpleasant sight, but they can also attract more spiders. Thankfully, they’re easily removed using a vacuum cleaner, broom, duster or damp cloth.

Insecticide sprays

Fast acting and ideal for spot treatment, aerosol sprays can be purchased from hardware stores and supermarkets.

Diatomaceous earth

Naturally derived and available in powdered form, diatomaceous earth can be sprinkled around the perimeter of your home to stop spiders in their tracks. However, this must be used with caution around pets.

Spider traps

With a strong adhesive surface containing a tempting bait, spider traps can be placed in problem areas. However, they may be less suitable if you have curious pets and young children.

Professional spider treatment

Sometimes, an outbreak can become difficult to control, no matter what you do. That’s why Allstate has a range of effective, tailored treatments, for spider problems of all sizes in homes and businesses. Speak to one of our friendly consultants today.

Keep spiders away from your home, speak to our expert team

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8371 1277

Professional spider treatment

Although garden orb weavers rarely come indoors, our technicians will always begin by performing a thorough inspection both inside and outside your home to locate the source of the outbreak.

Since we have an in-depth knowledge of spider species and behaviour, we can easily identify which spiders are involved, and offer targeted treatments that work quickly and effectively.

We use a range of nontoxic treatments, including insecticide control sprays, which are applied around externally around your building, as well as a spider control dust, which can be sprinkled inside hard to reach places, including voids, gaps, crevices and cavities.

For fast and effective spider management, choose Allstate

As you prepare your garden for the warm weather, the last thing that you want to encounter is an army of garden orb weaver spiders and their sticky webs. But there’s no need to worry – Allstate is always here to help!

Locally operated since 1986, we’ve offered premium pest control services to clients in all suburbs of Adelaide. Available 24/7 for urgent advice, our technicians are highly trained to understand spider behaviour to provide tailored, innovative solutions for pest infestations in residential, commercial and industrial settings.

With a commitment to using nontoxic treatments which are safe for children and pets, you can count on Allstate for long-term protection against spider outbreaks all year long.

Our expert team is ready to help you now

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8371 1277

What Not to do During a Bee Swarm

by n.trelease@creativeserum.com | Oct 9, 2024 | Blog, Pests

WHAT NOT TO DO DURING A BEE SWARM

A single beehive can house up to 20,000 to 80,000 bees at a time, but what happens when it reaches capacity? Many bees are sent away to look for a new home. Also known as a bee swarm, we’ve prepared some tips on what to avoid doing to stay safe when you encounter this unusually large number of bees.

What questions will this article answer?

What is a bee swarm?

A significant number of bees leaving an overcrowded hive to start a new colony elsewhere is known as a bee swarm.

Are bee swarms dangerous?

Swarming bees are thought to be quite docile with no hive to defend, but they will become aggressive if they perceive a threat.

Warning signs of a bee swarm

You may notice a large number of bees making noisy buzzing sounds around your home.

What not to do during a bee swarm

Avoid panicking, sudden movements, moving the swarm on yourself, remaining outdoors and going barefoot.

How to prevent a bee swarm in your yard

Remove food and water sources, choose your flowering plants carefully, grow bee deterring plant and install ultrasonic deterrents.

Professional bee management

While we advocate for hive relocation to manage bee outbreaks, we can inititate treatment if there is a severe outbreak or health risk.

For safe and humane bee control, choose Allstate

Available 24/7, we’re fully equipped with protective clothing and bee handling equipment to provide long-term bee prevention solutions.

What is a bee swarm?

As tiny experts in pollinating plants, bees are no doubt a very important part of our planet. They live in beehives which can house between 20,000 to 80,000 bees at a time, so it’s no surprise that overcrowding can eventually become a big problem for the colony.

With limited space to raise their young and store honey, worker bees spend around a month preparing for a swarm. The aim of the swarm is to support the current colony and allow it to continue growing.

There are 3 types of bee swarms: primary and secondary swarms, as well as absconding.

During a swarm, a significant number of bees say farewell to their hive to start a fresh colony elsewhere. In primary swarms, the resident Queen bee is escorted to a new hive with around half of the colony. A smaller secondary swarm may follow later, where one more new Queen bee will exit. If the entire colony leaves due to extreme circumstances such as disease, this is known as absconding.

Once a swarm departs the hive, it will travel to a spot that is determined to be safe and suitable as a home by scout bees. Worker bees will then begin the important job of building a brand new hive.

Are bee swarms dangerous?

Although it can be scary to see many bees flying around, you can rest assured that swarming behaviour is not considered aggressive at all. In fact, swarming bees are quite docile with no hive to defend. They usually feast on honey and nectar before leaving the hive to fuel them during their long journey, so they’re not searching or competing for food, either.

While it’s natural to assume that bees will sting you if you get too close, bee swarmers just want to move into their new home as quickly as possible. Long story short: if you don’t disturb them, it’s unlikely that they’ll sting!

However, this is often easier said than done. A swarm of bees can trigger anxiety in many people, and combined with a lack of understanding about bee behaviour, our panicked reactions can agitate bees. This can be particularly concerning when children and pets are in the area, as bee stings are painful and can even trigger allergies.

If you’re seeing more bees around than usual, keep well away from them, stay indoors and reach out to Allstate for advice as soon as possible.

Avoid getting stung by a bee swarm, speak to an expert today

or

8371 1277

Warning signs of a bee swarm

Given that spring is peak breeding season for bees, it’s more common to see swarming during the warmer months. You’ll want to pay attention to any unusual bee activity in your yard around this time of year to avoid a summer outbreak!

The most obvious way to tell if you’re about to experience a bee swarm is that you notice more bees around your home. You may even hear their distracting buzzing noises before you see them.

You’ll most likely see them buzzing between flowering plants in your garden and lingering around certain parts of your building to build their new hive. Pay attention to potential entry points inside your roof and walls as these are popular nesting sites.

If there are established beehives nearby, there is always a risk that a swarm could approach your property, so be on the look out.

What not to do during a bee swarm

You don’t need to be a professional beekeeper to protect yourself and your family when you have a bee outbreak on your hands. Here’s a list of things to avoid to stay safe during a swarm:

Do not panic
While it’s completely understandable that your first reaction to experiencing a bee swarm is to feel anxious, we strongly recommend not acting on this. Stay calm if possible.

Do not try to move the swarm yourself
Hosing bees with water or sprinklers, swatting and throwing stones will not deter a swarm away from your yard. Instead, bees will become aggressive and sting if they believe that they are in danger, particularly if they are trying to protect their Queen.

Do not create sudden movement
This can be perceived as a threat and aggravate the swarm.

Do not go outdoors
Move your children and pets indoors until the swarm has moved away from your yard, or clustered a safe distance away. This may take up to 30 minutes.

Do not go barefoot
To protect yourself from the sting of fallen bees, wear appropriate footwear.

If you have a bee swarm, it can be hard to figure out what to do when you’re feeling stressed. The best action that you can take is to contact Allstate straight away for professional advice and calm reassurance.

Need expert bee advice? Call us today

or

8371 1277

How to prevent a bee swarm in your yard

Here are our simple tips to making your property less prone to bees this spring:

Remove food and water sources

Bees mainly feed on nectar and pollen, but some species will eat meat, dairy products, fungi and flower-based oils. So keep food items covered where possible, including pet water bowls.

Choose your flowering plants carefully

Bees are attracted to bright coloured blue, purple and violet flowers with a pleasant sweet scent, so having less of these around will make your garden far less appealing. They are unable to see red flowers, such as tulips, making them a better choice.

Bee deterring plants

Some plants emit an unpleasant smell for bees and can assist in keeping them away from your garden. These include mint, eucalyptus, basil, geranium, lemongrass, neem, marigold and citronella.

Ultrasonic deterrents

You can consider purchasing electronic devices which emit sound waves outside the spectrum of human hearing. Bee antennae are sensitive to these ultrasonic sound waves, which cause confusion.

Keep safe from bee swarms, speak to our expert team

or

8371 1277

Professional bee management

When it comes to bee handling, it’s best to leave it to the experts who have extensive training in bee behaviour and species, as well as the right equipment and protective clothing.

Above all, our handlers refrain from causing harm to the bees and prefer to safely relocate the hive to an appropriate location where possible.

If there is a severe outbreak or a significant health risk to you or your family, we will initiate treatment by applying an insecticide control dust.

For safe and humane bee control, choose Allstate

Heading into the warmer weather, the last thing you need is a bee swarm when you and your family want to relax in the backyard. There’s no need to worry, though – Allstate is always ready to help!

Since 1986, we’ve provided reliable and effective pest control services to residential, commercial and industrial clients. Available 24/7 to all suburbs of Adelaide for urgent advice, our highly trained and fully equipped technicians can recognise and safely manage bee swarms with minimal impact on the bee population.

With payment plans available on all our services, you can have fast, yet long-lasting solutions to all bee swarms that settle on your property.

Our expert team is ready to help you now

or

8371 1277