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Are Termites Active in Winter?

Are Termites Active in Winter?

by | May 12, 2025 | Blog, Termites

The short answer: yes! Winter is an important time as any to protect your home against termites. Read on to learn how to termite-proof your home this winter. 

What questions will this article answer?

What are the signs of termite activity in winter?

Termites are known to be active all year long, so here are some ways to tell if they may have reached your home:

Structural damage to your home

When you start seeing physical changes to your home from termite damage, it’s often too late, as termites have probably already been there for quite some time. You may notice problems in walls, ceilings, floors and paint such as holes, buckling, blistering, warping, sagging and flaking. Windows and doors may seem harder to open and shut.

Mud tubes

If you notice brown trails of hardened dirt along walls, crawl spaces or timber beams, these mud tubes are a strong indicator of active termites in winter. Built by working termites, these tunnels are around 0.25-1 inch in diameter and designed to protect foraging termites from predators and the elements while they’re moving between the nest and food source.

Hollow sounds when tapping wood

When termites have tunnelled through a timber structure, the empty space that is left behind will be exposed by a hollow, echoing sound when the timber is tapped. This is a hidden sign of termite damage meaning that the structural integrity of the timber has been significantly compromised.

Termite swarming and discarded wings

As spring approaches, termite colonies prepare for swarming. If you notice flying termites, also known as swarmers, near tree stumps, wooden sleepers or woodpiles, as well as discarded wings near windowsills and doors, this is a sign of termites in your area.

Clicking sounds

Although they are mostly silent while they do their damage, you may occasionally hear faint clicking noises coming from your walls during peak termite tunnelling activity. Soldier termites can also initiate clicking noises to warn their fellow termites of imminent danger.

Termite droppings

At less than 0.04 inches long and resembling wood-coloured piles of sawdust, termite droppings can be hard to see and even mistaken for something else.

Drywood termites in winter

Unlike subterranean termites, drywood termites require less moisture to survive, and as a result, live exclusively in dry wood as their name suggests. They usually live higher up from the ground in wooden and timber structures and furniture, and as a result, are unaffected by cold weather.

As they don’t tend to leave mud tubes, it can be difficult to spot drywood termites in winter, so you may not know that they are there until they have carried out significant damage.

Worried about termites in your home? Speak to an expert today

or

8371 1277

Subterranean termites in winter

Although the ground surface temperatures may be freezing, subterranean termites living in underground nests will often burrow down deeper where the soil is warmer and seal off the openings to avoid cold draughts and warm air escaping.

You’ll also notice that worker termites forage closer to their nests for food in winter and focus more on nest maintenance and repair. In fact, many workers may not survive the cold weather.

Queens also lay less eggs and there is overall a lower population of termites, with less activity in the nest to try and conserve energy and heat.

For the termites that have managed to penetrate timber inside your home, however, winter has very little effect. The large amount of activity generates heat and having protection from the harsh elements means that they can stay warm and full of food all year long!

Swarming termites in winter

It’s highly unlikely that you’ll see swarmers emerge until the very end of winter, when the temperatures start to rise heading into spring. If you do see termite swarmers, it means that the risk of an outbreak near your home is higher because they are scouting for a good location to start up a new nest.

How to prevent termites in winter

Here are some simple ways to make your home and yard a less appealing place for termites to settle:

Regular yard maintenance

Termites thrive where there is plenty of wood, so if you have lots of trees, rotting tree stumps, woodpiles, wooden sleepers, furniture or plant holders, it’s best to either remove them or ensure that they are kept away from your house at the very least.

Prevent all sources of moisture

Effective termite prevention includes addressing damp environments which help them to maintain enough moisture in their thin outer shells to survive. It also aids in their ability to digest the tough cellulose fibres in the wood that they consume. This means that you’re more likely to attract termites if you have a pond, bird baths or leaky plumbing, or live near a large body of water.

Also check that rooms in your home with higher humidity are properly ventilated, and that the soil on your property is well drained.

Termite inspections

Because termites are difficult to spot, the only way to know whether or not you have them is with a termite inspection. Fully equipped with the latest in termite detecting tools, Allstate’s licensed termite inspectors will thoroughly check all outdoor and indoor areas for even the most subtlest signs of termite activity.

Termite Inspections

The most reliable way to avoid a termite infestation is to have regular comprehensive termite inspections.

Conducted by licensed termite inspectors, a government-recommended yearly termite inspection is the best form of termite protection that you can get.

For those who live in areas of higher risk, more frequent inspections are ideal. This includes buildings that are situated near a large body of water or have experienced a previous termite attack.

Don’t delay your termite inspection. Speak to our expert team today.

or

8371 1277

Professional termite control

If you have a termite outbreak, Allstate offers several modern and effective treatments that can be tailored to your individual situation.

Before applying any treatments, our first step in every termite management plan is to always conduct a thorough assessment to get to the source of the outbreak.

Then, to reduce the active population, we use the following termite treatments

Premise termiticide spray

Applied directly to soil in designated treatment zones, this non-repellent spray contains a targeted active ingredient called imidacloprid, which acts powerfully to repel termites. It is commonly used in areas which are known to have active termites.

Sentricon Always Active bait stations

For long term termite protection, a Sentricon barrier around the perimeter of your building has been shown to be highly effective. Discreetly installed underground at every 3 metres, Sentricon bait stations contain hexaflumuron, which disrupts the termite life cycle.

For reliable and long-lasting termite management, choose Allstate

Once termites have entered your home, they’ll stay all year long. Even when it’s the middle of winter, Allstate is always here to help.

Since 1986, we’ve successfully managed termite outbreaks in homes and businesses in all suburbs of Adelaide. Available 24/7 for urgent advice, our licensed and highly knowledgeable team of pest technicians can assist you with safe and non-toxic termite solutions.

With comprehensive warranties and easily accessible payment plans on all our termite products and services, you can trust that you’ll be protected from termites for good.

Our expert team is ready to help you now

or

8371 1277

How Termites Adapt To Changing Seasons

How Termites Adapt To Changing Seasons

by | Mar 11, 2025 | Blog, Termites

They’re small, move discreetly and cause silent damage in homes and businesses across Adelaide. Learn more about what makes termites the ultimate perennial pests and how you can avoid termite attacks no matter the season in this Hivemind blog.

What questions will this article answer?

Spring: peak swarming season

To improve the survival of their species, termites swarm to reproduce and expand their geographical reach. This is a key sign that you probably have a mature termite colony nearby.

For most termites, this normally happens in warm and humid weather, in late spring to early summer, after rainfall. You might see up to 50,000 male and female termites pair off to mate and establish a new nesting site. Swarming during the daytime is most common, though some species prefer the evenings. If you have lots of trees, woodpiles or ponds on your property, this could be very appealing for swarmers, so it’s best to stay alert.

Once swarmers have completed the fertilisation process, they will lose their wings and become the new primary King and Queen for the new colony. Pay attention to flying termites and discarded wings around your home in spring.

    Summer: the peak season

    For most subterranean termites, summer is a hive of activity! With swarming still occurring in early summer and Queens laying up to 30,000 eggs in a single day, it won’t take long to grow a formidable termite colony right at your doorstep.

    Most termites will spend summer foraging for food and eating, so be aware of changes to dead tree stumps, wooden sleepers, fencing, timber structures and furniture around your home.

    Though termite workers do not survive through summer, secondary Queen termites step up with their egg laying to well and truly compensate for the loss.

    Dampwood termites predominantly swarm during the summer season, and their soldiers are known to grow up to 15mm long.

    Autumn: cold weather preparations

    As the mercury drops, termites start making preparations to keep the colony warm and toasty for the upcoming winter. Towards the end of autumn, when the temperature falls under their preferred 23 degrees, you’ll find them looking for cosy places to nest, which can include inside your home.

    Unlike most species of termites, drywood termites swarm in late summer and early autumn. We recommend staying vigilant for these winged termites searching for nesting sites in timber structures around your property as the weather cools down.

    Winter: keeping warm

    While termites are active all year round, especially if they are tunnelling through wooden structures inside your home protected from the cold. Though warm weather provides optimal survival conditions, termites will adjust their behaviour in the following ways to endure the harsh winter climate:

    • Subterranean termites are generally less active
    • They will tunnel deeper underground to seek warmth, and seal off tunnels to limit draughts of cold air
    • They’ll forage for food closer to their nest, ignoring the food that has been exposed to the cold
    • Queens often halt laying eggs when it gets cold enough
    • They will huddle closely to conserve heat

    Avoid skipping a termite inspection. Book with Allstate today.

    or

    8371 1277

    How to spot a termite infestation

    Termites are notorious for quietly causing significant destruction to your home, and it is usually not noticeable until the damage is severe. Stay aware of a termite attacks all year round by looking out for the following signs:

    • Mud tubes along walls, beams and foundations
    • Piles of discarded wings from termite swarmers near doors and windows
    • Unexplained cracks and peeling in plasterboards and paint
    • Creaking, blistering, warping and buckling doorframes and floorboards
    • Hollow sounds from wood and timber structures when tapped

    Worried about signs of termites? Speak to an expert today.

    or

    8371 1277

    Preventing a termite outbreak

    While termite damage is expensive to fix, it’s considered to be highly preventable with assistance from the right professional expertise. Here’s our suggestions for staying termite-free at your home or business:

    Yearly inspections
    At Allstate, we follow government guidelines which recommend yearly termite inspections, conducted by licensed termite inspectors adhering to strict quality standards, for all homes and businesses in Adelaide. However, if you are in a high-risk area, more frequent termite inspections may be even more effective.

    Reduce levels of moisture
    Termites thrive in warm, humid environments, so we recommend making sure that your home drainage system is in good working order. Inspect your plumbing for leaks in pipes, taps and drains, and check that your gutters aren’t clogged and holding water. Fix these issues as soon as they arise so that they don’t attract termites, as well as other pests.

    Regular yard maintenance
    Avoid storing wood piles and sleepers near your home where possible and remove dead tree stumps. Keep tree branches, shrubs and bushes well-trimmed away from the sides of your house.

    For fast and reliable termite protection all year, choose Allstate

    Active throughout all seasons, termite attacks are no small matter. It’s thought that 1 in 5 Adelaide homes are affected by termite damage, but you can avoid becoming part of this statistic by arranging a free termite assessment with a licensed termite inspector from Allstate.

    Locally operated since 1986, Allstate has provided premium pest control services to clients across all suburbs of Adelaide. Available for urgent advice 24/7, our highly trained pest technicians offer innovative, tailored treatments and solutions for pest outbreaks of all sizes in residential, commercial and industrial settings, as well as protection for new builds.

    With a range of long- and short-term termite control measures on offer, covered by competitive warranties and accessible with payment plans, you can safeguard your family from termites sooner rather than later.

    Our expert team is ready to help you now

    or

    8371 1277

    Understanding the life cycle of termites

    Understanding the life cycle of termites

    by | Feb 11, 2025 | Blog, Termites

    UNDERSTANDING THE LIFE CYCLE OF TERMITES

    Although most termites only live for 1-2 years, that’s still plenty of time to cause a lot of damage in your home! Learn about how these tiny terrors grow and work together to become masters of destruction in this Hivemind blog.

    What questions will this article answer?

    Reproductive termites

    Responsible for populating the colony, reproductive termites play an important role in beginning the termite life cycle. There are 3 main types of reproductive termites in a colony with each serving a distinct role in its survival.

     

    Primary reproductive termites

    The original founders of a new colony, reproductive termites have one main job: to create and lay eggs. Also known as the King and Queen, they are darker in colour and have better vision than other termites. Queen termites can grow up to 4-6 inches long, whereas Kings tend to remain the same size as other worker termites.

     

    Secondary reproductive termites

    Playing a supportive role to the primary reproductive termites, there is usually a pair of secondary reproductive termites which act as a backup King and Queen. They are ready to step up in case anything happens to the primary pair. They also play a role in maintaining the size of the colony. In some species, there may be multiple pairs of secondary reproductive termites.

     

    Swarmers or alates

    When a colony has reached capacity and is ready to expand, you will notice the presence of swarmers or alates. Tasked with starting a new colony, these swarmers are reproductive termites with wings. Upon maturity, they develop a tougher and darker outer shell to make them resistant to moisture loss, as well as better eyesight, to assist with swarming.

     

    In late spring to early summer, you could find up to 50,000 swarmers leaving a colony to find a mate and establish a new colony elsewhere. Once fertilisation is complete, swarmers lose their wings and become the new primary King and Queen.

     

    Thankfully, it’s thought that only around 10% of swarmers will be successful in mating and starting a new colony!

    Eggs

    Starting a colony from scratch isn’t easy, but that’s why Queens can lay up to 30,000 eggs in a single day!

    Laid in clusters deep within the nest, termite eggs are concealed and heavily protected by the Queen and her workers. They are usually oval-shaped and small in size, white or brownish in colour, with a translucent appearance.

    Termite eggs normally take 1-2 weeks to hatch into pale white larvae.

    Larvae

    Tended to by worker termites, larvae are the freshly hatched babies within a termite colony. They grow up to 2.5mm long, are white and translucent in appearance, with a soft outer shell that gradually hardens as they approach maturity. Larvae evolve through several nymph stages until they become adults.

    Don’t delay your termite inspection, make an appointment today

    or

    8371 1277

    Nymphs

    As termite larvae develop into adults, they undergo several moults, where they continually outgrow and shed their outer shell, also known as the exoskeleton.

    During this critical developmental period, nymphs will physically evolve and develop the necessary body structures for their caste, or adult role in the colony, as either a soldier, worker or reproductive termite.

    Their exact role is determined by pheromones produced by the King and Queen and heavily influenced by the survival needs of the colony.

    It normally takes around 1 year for a nymph to reach full maturity, and this process can depend on predators and food availability.

    Adult termites

    Every flourishing termite colony consists of different groups of termites which play a specific part in guaranteeing its survival. Also known as castes, you’ll find 3 distinct groups of adult termites in a colony:

     

    Workers

    Making up the vast majority of a colony, workers are responsible for caring for younger termites, building and maintaining the nest, foraging and feeding other termites. They are white or pale brown coloured and grow up to 4-6mm long.

     

    Soldiers

    As their name suggests, soldier termites are key players in protecting and defending the colony against predators. They are easily recognised by their strong mandibles and large-sized, rectangular-shaped heads, range from white to pale red to light brown in colour, and grow up to 5-6.5mm long.

     

    Reproductive termites

    A small number of nymphs become winged adult termites in mature colonies to assist with expanding and establishing another colony elsewhere. They are dark brown to black coloured and grow up to 12mm long.

     

    Changing castes

    Termite colonies are known to be very responsive to the external environment, so depending on the needs of the colony, adult termites from one caste can transition to another caste if needed.

    Signs of a termite outbreak

    Termites are notoriously difficult to detect until it is too late without the correct equipment and training. However, in severe outbreaks, you may notice the following clues:

     

    • Brown mud tubes along walls, skirtings and foundations
    • Hollow-sounding wooden structures when tapped, including trees and timber in your home
    • Blistering and cracks in paint or plaster
    • Warping and buckling floorboards
    • Discarded wings from swarmers or alates

    Seen signs of termites? Don’t wait, speak to an expert today

    or

    8371 1277

    How to prevent termites

    While the risk of a termite attack is high in most parts of Australia, you can definitely be proactive to avoid it happening in your home. Here’s how:

     

    Termite inspections

    According to government guidelines, it is recommended to have a termite inspection at least once a year, and even more frequently in areas considered to have a greater risk of an outbreak. At Allstate, our team of licensed termite inspectors is fully equipped with the right tools to assist you with comprehensive termite inspections.

     

    Remove sources of moisture

    Water attracts termites, so if you live close to a river or wetland, or have ponds or bird baths at your home, you’ll need to be more vigilant with termite protection. Regularly check for leaks in your plumbing inside your home and around your roof, including gutters, pipes, drains and taps, and repair them as soon as possible.

     

    Regular yard maintenance

    Termites feed on cellulose, which is found in wood and timber. So, we recommend trimming back branches from trees and shrubs away from your home. Remove piles of wood or store them well away from your home. Check timber posts, sleepers and outdoor furniture for any potential termite damage.

    Choose Allstate safe and effective termite management

    At Allstate, we understand how hard it can be to detect termites, let alone differentiate between the various stages of their life cycle. That’s why we offer free termite assessments [insert link: ] to all homes and businesses across Adelaide.

    Founded in 1986, Allstate offers premium pest control services for residential, commercial and industrial clients. Available 24/7 for urgent advice and enquiries, our highly trained pest technicians offer innovative and tailored treatments which are non-toxic to children, pets and the environment.

    With access to payment plans, you and your family can stay protected from all types of termites, all year round.

    Our expert team is ready to help you now

    or

    8371 1277

    Top 5 Termite Species Found in Adelaide

    Top 5 Termite Species Found in Adelaide

    by | Dec 21, 2024 | Termites

    Termites, also known as white ants, are social insects that thrive in colonies and play a vital role in breaking down dead wood and other organic matter. However, in urban environments, these pests often target wooden structures, causing significant damage to homes and buildings. Adelaide is home to several species of termites, and understanding these species is essential for effective management.

    Identifying termite varieties helps prevent structure collapses and reduce the risks they pose. With Allstate Pest Control’s expertise, this article highlights the common species found in Adelaide and methods to protect properties. Learn more about pest management at Allstate Pest Control.

    What Are Termite Species?

    Termite species are closely related groups of social insects that vary in their habitat, behaviour, and impact on human environments. Globally, there are over 3,000 species, with many found in Australia. Each species has unique characteristics, including nesting preferences, damage potential, and moisture requirements.

    In Adelaide, identifying different species of termites is critical for pest control as they target structures differently. For example, subterranean termites live in soil and rely on moisture, while dry wood termites prefer dry wood in fence posts and tree stumps.

    Subterranean Termites: The Common Culprit in Adelaide

    Subterranean termites are one of the most destructive termite varieties in Adelaide and are responsible for most infestations.

    • Description: These tiny insects have soft, pale bodies and depend on moisture for survival.
    • Habitat: They build underground tunnels in soil to access wooden structures like houses and buildings.
    • Signs of Infestation: Look for mud tubes along walls, hollow-sounding timber, and peeling paint.
    • Potential Damage: Their colonies cause extensive damage, often leading to structure collapses.
    • Management Tips: Regular termite inspections, baiting systems, and soil treatments are key to protecting buildings.

    Ring Ant Termites: Secondary Threats to Homes

    Ring ant termites are a damaging but less common termite variety in Adelaide.

    • Unique Features: These small pests are brownish with prominent mandibles and belong to the soldier caste.
    • Nesting Habits: They favour decaying wood, creating nests near tree stumps and fence posts.
    • Infestation Signs: Powdery residues and discarded wings around wooden structures indicate their presence.
    • Effective Treatment: Control methods include moisture reduction, professional inspections, and termite baiting systems.

    Tree-Nesting Termites: Arboreal Invaders

    Tree-nesting termites, known for building arboreal mounds, primarily reside in trees but may extend to wooden structures.

    • Appearance: These termite pests are dark-coloured with distinct segmented bodies.
    • Natural Habitats: Found in dead trees, they often target tree stumps and telephone poles.
    • Damage Potential: They weaken outdoor structures and, if left unchecked, spread to homes.
    • Control Measures: Annual inspections, tree trimming, and chemical barriers help manage infestations.

    Dampwood Termites: The Moisture Lovers

    Dampwood termites, while rarely found in Adelaide homes, still pose risks in specific conditions.

    • Behaviour: These termites require damp environments and are often seen in decaying wood.
    • Habitat: They infest dead trees, fence posts, and wood with leaks or high humidity.
    • Prevention: Fix plumbing leaks, improve ventilation, and replace infested wood with treated materials.

    Giant Northern Termites: Rare but Destructive

    Giant termites, also known as Giant Northern Termites, are Australia’s most destructive species but are uncommon in Adelaide.

    • Characteristics: They are more prominent, with strong jaws capable of devouring small pieces of timber quickly.
    • Threat Level: Known for causing extensive damage in regions like New South Wales, they occasionally appear in Adelaide.
    • Protection Tips: Use termite fumigation and maintain a regular inspection schedule to safeguard properties.

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

      or

      8371 1277

      Conclusion

      Adelaide’s termites, from subterranean to giant termites, pose significant risks to structures and wooden buildings. Regular inspections and tailored pest control solutions are essential for long-term protection. Trust Allstate Pest Control for expert termite management. Book an inspection at Allstate Pest Control.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      What are the most common termite species in Adelaide?

      The subterranean termites are the most common and cause significant damage in the area.

      How can I identify different termite species in my home?

      Inspect for mud tubes, hollow-sounding timber, and discarded wings. Contact a professional for precise identification.

      What is the most destructive termite species in Australia?

      The Giant Northern Termite is the most destructive, capable of causing severe structural damage.

      How do professional inspections help in termite management?

      Experts detect early signs of termites and implement targeted treatments to prevent infestations.

      Are eco-friendly termite treatments effective against Adelaide species?

      Yes, methods like baiting systems and chemical-free barriers effectively manage Australian termite species.

      Top 5 Termite Species Found in Adelaide

      Drywood Termites: Are They in Adelaide?

      by | Dec 8, 2024 | Termites

      Drywood termites are a species of destructive termites that feed on structural wood and live entirely within timber without requiring contact with the soil. These pests, including the West Indian dry wood termite (Cryptotermes brevis), are known for their ability to cause significant damage to wooden furniture, floorboards, and buildings by forming extensive nests inside infested timber.

      Drywood termites are distinguished by their drywood habitat preference and relatively smaller colony size than subterranean termites. The colonies, often initiated by winged termites, thrive in coastal areas and adjacent tablelands, establishing themselves in living trees, stumps, and other wooden structures.

      For expert advice on termite prevention, visit All State Pest Control. 

      Characteristics of Drywood Termites: Lifecycle, Behaviour, and Habitat

      The lifecycle of drywood termites includes three main stages: egg, nymph, and adult. The queen lays eggs that hatch into workers, soldiers, or reproductive termites. These termites rely on dry wood as their only food source and can remain hidden within the structure of their nests for years. In the early stages of a colony, their presence is often missed due to a lack of visible signs.


      The first signs of a drywood termite infestation include:

      • Frass: Small pieces resembling sawdust found near the timber.
      • Hollow-sounding wood: Damage to floorboards or furniture when tapped.
      • Tunnels and piles of frass: Evidence of termite activity inside timber.

      Drywood termites exhibit unique behaviours, such as consuming structural wood without leaving external traces, making their infestations harder to detect than subterranean termites, which rely on soil contact for survival.

      Drywood termites thrive in dry wood habitats, favouring furniture, timber structures, and living trees. They are commonly found in coastal areas and can be easily transported via infested wooden items, leading to new colonies in unaffected regions.

      Adelaide’s Environment: Can Drywood Termites Survive?

      Yes, drywood termites, including Cryptotermes brevis, can survive in Adelaide due to its climate and urban development. The region’s hot summers and mild winters provide suitable conditions for these pests, especially in buildings with poor ventilation or untreated wood.

      Termites flourish in coastal areas and adjacent tablelands as these regions offer moisture and timber structures conducive to their spread. Drywood termites have shown remarkable adaptability, infesting furniture, stumps, and even living trees.

      Impact of Drywood Termites: Damage to Properties in Adelaide

      Structural Damage

      Drywood termites cause significant damage to Adelaide properties by burrowing into timber, creating tunnels that weaken structural wood. This destruction often impacts floorboards, wooden furniture, and buildings, with the pests spreading rapidly once established.

      Financial Costs

      Adelaide homeowners may face repair costs exceeding $10,000 for severe infestations, especially when unchecked. The economic impact extends to businesses where infested timber can compromise operations and lead to lost revenue.

      Eco-Friendly Solutions by All State Pest Control

      All State Pest Control offers eco-friendly termite treatments designed to prevente drywood termites without harming the environment. Their methods include chemical-free solutions, non-toxic treatments, and safe green pest control measures for children and pets.

      Why Choose All State Pest Control?

      1. Expertise in managing drywood termite infestations.
      2. Child-safe and environmentally friendly options.
      3. Customised treatments for Adelaide homes and businesses.

      For sustainable termite control, trust the experts at All State Pest Control.

      Prevention Tips for Homeowners and Businesses

      To reduce the risk of a drywood termite infestation:

      1. Inspect and seal cracks in walls, windows, and timber structures.
      2. Regular inspections should be conducted for the first signs of termite activity.
      3. Treat wood with protective solutions to deter pests.
      4. Store timber and firewood away from living areas.
      5. Ensure proper ventilation to minimise moisture in wooden areas.

      Implementing these measures protects your property from costly infestations.

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

        or

        8371 1277

        Conclusion

        Drywood termites are a serious threat to Adelaide properties, causing significant damage to timber structures, wooden furniture, and floorboards. These pests, including the West Indian drywood termite (Cryptotermes brevis), thrive in dry wood habitats, leaving piles of frass, hollow wood, and extensive tunnels as signs of infestation. 

        Don’t wait until the first signs of infestation turn into costly repairs. Contact All State Pest Control for expert advice and comprehensive solutions. Whether you need an inspection, treatment, or long-term prevention strategy, they are your trusted partner in termite control.

        Frequently Asked Questions

        What are drywood termite signs infestation in Adelaide?

        Frass, hollow wood, and visible tunnels indicate a possible infestation.

        How does Adelaide’s climate affect termite activity?

        The hot summers and mild winters enable termite colonies to thrive.

        Can drywood termites cause significant damage to Adelaide properties?

        Yes, they can undermine structures, causing significant damage and financial losses.

        What eco-friendly termite treatments are available in Adelaide?

        Non-toxic options like green pest control and chemical-free treatments.

        How can I prevent drywood termites from infesting my home?

        Seal cracks, inspect timber, and treat wood to deter infestations.

        What is the best protection against termites?

        What is the best protection against termites?

        by | Nov 6, 2024 | Termites

        Don’t be fooled by their tiny size: a colony of termites is able to consume 6.8kg of wood in one week! Responsible for over 80% of all structural damage to homes in Australia, learn more about how you can protect your home from termites in this Hivemind blog.

        What questions will this article answer?

        Why is termite control important?

        With termites affecting 1 in 3 homes in Australia, the risk of a termite attack to your home is high. This is because their appetite for cellulose-based materials means that the wood in your home becomes an appealing food source.

         

        Living mainly underground, subterranean termites are hard to spot and once inside your home, they can silently cause significant damage that is not visible until it is simply too late. In fact, termites are thought to cost Australian homeowners a whopping $1.5 billion every year.

         

        Since this damage is considered highly preventable, the cost of repairs is unfortunately not covered by home and contents insurance. However, it’s reassuring to know that Allstate Pest Control can help keep you and your family safe from a termite attack.

        Termite inspections

        According to CSIRO and government recommendations, yearly termite inspections are the best way to detect the early signs of a termite attack. If you live in a high-risk area, more frequent inspections may be ideal.

        This is because licensed termite inspectors are specifically trained to understand termite behaviour and use modern technology to assist with uncovering even the most subtle signs of termite activity.

        At Allstate, we use the following specialised termite detecting equipment to complete inspections according to strict Australian standards:

        • Moisture meters can detect areas of higher humidity which indicate the presence of termite activity
        • Sounding tools are tapped against wooden structures to check for hollowed out sounds resulting from termite damage
        • Motion detectors use advanced thermal imaging technology to detect termite movement inside structures
        • Borescopes are a type of optical device which assist with a visual inspection of a high risk area which is otherwise difficult to access

        At Allstate, a comprehensive termite assessment will include using the appropriate termite detection equipment to thoroughly examine all interior and exterior parts of your property, from subfloors to ceilings, as well as your yard and fencing.

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

        or

        8371 1277

        Pre-purchase timber pest inspections

        If you’re buying a new home, chances are that you’ll have a building inspection before committing to buy. However, this inspection does not usually incorporate timber pests.

        You will need a professional pest assessment which will cover not just termites, but also seasoned timber borers and wood decay fungi.

        At Allstate, we conduct non-invasive, visual pre-purchase timber pest inspections in accordance with Australian Standard 4349.3. Focusing on areas which may have a high probability of having timber pests, we inspect the building before preparing a report on the same day with our findings. This includes a risk assessment of your building for timber pests, evidence of timber pest activity, severity of damage caused, as well as recommendations for management and further investigations.

        Termite treatment

        If termites have been detected at your business or home, our pest technicians will determine the source of the outbreak and perform a thorough inspection of all affected areas before coming up with a management plan.

        At Allstate, we keep up to date with our knowledge of termite control techniques and technology, using only the most effective products that are nontoxic towards people, pets and the environment. These include:

        Premise termiticide

        Offering immediate protection from termites, it’s no surprise that Premise termiticide is a popular termite treatment solution in Australia. Applied directly to soil around the perimeter of your building, it is ingested by foraging termites as a modern non-repellent treatment. Premise has been shown to be highly effective in reducing the termite population through termite-to-termite transfer.

        Sentricon Always Active

        An effective termite protection barrier, Sentricon Always Active bait stations can be installed discreetly underground, with the cap lying flush with your pavers. It contains the active ingredient noviflumuron, which inhibits the termite life cycle by preventing the moulting process.

        Sentricon stations are usually placed 30cm away from your home, no more than 3 metres apart. They will be checked at every termite inspection to make sure that they are working properly and to assess for termite activity.

        For effective termite treatment solutions, speak to an expert today

        or

        8371 1277

        Termite protection for new homes

        Due to the high risk of termite attacks, the National Construction Code guidelines mandate new homes be built using termite-resistant materials and include a termite management system.

        These strict requirements are in place because termites are still able to penetrate treated timber and steel roofing, and damage can affect every part of your home.

        At Allstate, our pre-construction pest control team includes licensed builders with extensive knowledge and experience in termite management. We incorporate the following range of high-quality termite resistant products, covered by extensive warranties, at the appropriate stage of your build:

        Kordon Termite Barrier

        As certified Kordon installers, we recommend this moisture resistant barrier to protect your concrete slab.

        Manufactured in Adelaide, Kordon has undergone extensive testing by the CSIRO for over two decades and has a 100% success rate in providing the best long-term chemical and physical defence against subterranean termites, when installed correctly.

        Non-hazardous, hypoallergic and suitable for all building applications, Kordon is a polyester webbing embedded with deltamethrin termiticide. It is made into a highly flexible sheet which is placed between the bedding sand and steel mesh layers before the concrete slab is poured on top.

        Concrete curing

        To make sure that your concrete slab stays smooth and crack free and remain impenetrable to termites, we recommend Rendacure as our preferred concrete curing compound.

        With excellent adhesion properties, Rendacure is fast drying, wax free and water-based, making it easy to spray or roll onto freshly poured concrete.

        We also offer Deep Cure as an alternative fast and cost-effective method to internally cure concrete. Penetrating the inside of the slab, it stops excess moisture from entering by forming a water retaining gel.

        Slab edge moisture protection

        Protecting your concrete slab from moisture makes it far less likely to attract subterranean termites to your home. If your home is affected by dampness, this shows up as efflorescence, or coloured crystalline deposits of salt and minerals on surfaces around your home.

        We suggest using the following waterproofing products during the construction of your new home to prevent efflorescence:

        • Homeguard Protectacote is a bifenthrin-based, acrylic polymer latex compound that can be applied by spraying, rolling or brushing the exposed perimeter of new concrete slabs
        • Ardex WPM 300 is a high performance, water-based epoxy membrane and coating which can be applied to damp concrete to form a hydrostatic pressure resistant membrane and prevent rising damp
        • Xyprex concentrate sealant is applied as a concrete slurry and penetrates the tiny pores within concrete slabs to form a tough, watertight crystalline structure

        Chemical reticulation systems

        Building regulations make it compulsory for extensions on an existing property to include a termite barrier between your home and the new concrete slab. If baiting stations cannot be installed, this means that you may need a Termidor reticulation system. This consists of a network of underground pipes that discharge termiticide into the soil to repel termites, and requires topping up at regular intervals.

        Choose Allstate for long lasting termite control

        At Allstate, we’ve seen the devastating damage that termites can inflict on homes and businesses, causing stress and hefty repair bills.

        Locally operated since 1986, we’ve provided premium pest control services to all suburbs of Adelaide. Available 24/7 for expert advice, our highly trained pest technicians are fully equipped to offer innovative solutions to termite concerns in residential, commercial and industrial settings.

        With payment plans available, Allstate can keep you and your family safe with effective termite prevention strategies today.

        Our expert team is ready to help you now

        or

        8371 1277