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How a Termite Reticulation System Protects Your Home

How a Termite Reticulation System Protects Your Home

A termite reticulation system is one of the most innovative ways to prevent termites from entering your home. It works quietly underground, sending treatment through the soil month after month.

This is important here in Adelaide. Termites are everywhere. The CSIRO says one in three homes will get a termite infestation at some stage. Repairs cost billions every year. Most insurance won’t cover it either.

At Allstate Pest Control, we’ve been keeping homes safe for decades. We know and have seen the damage termites cause. We also know the relief homeowners feel once a proper barrier system is in place.

So, let’s break down what the system is, how it works, what it costs, and how Adelaide families use it in real life.

What is a Termite Reticulation System?

A lot of people mistake it for a “trap” or a box you swap out each year. It’s not that.

Simple Definition

A termite reticulation system is a set of underground pipes that run under your concrete slab or around your home. Those pipes release termiticide into the surrounding soil to block termites before they reach your timber.

Think of it like an underground sprinkler system. But instead of water, it pumps out termite treatment.

How the System Works

  • Pipes go in during the construction process or are dug in later around foundations.
  • Refill points sit at the edges of your home.
  • A licensed pest control tech pumps chemical through the pipes.
  • The treatment spreads out evenly and forms a protective barrier.

The barrier deters termites. It also kills any that try to push through.

Key Components

  • Pipes: Flexible enough to handle soil movement.
  • Refill points: Capped outlets where treatment goes in.
  • Chemical barrier: The actual defence line in the soil.

Why Install a Reticulation System?

Because once termites are inside, the damage is brutal. Catching them early or keeping them out is cheaper than fixing chewed beams later.

Long-Term Protection

A reticulation termite system gives you continuous protection for years. With proper refills and regular termite inspections, it holds strong.

Safer and More Consistent

Surface sprays miss spots. Reticulation doesn’t. It spreads chemicals evenly underground. Because it’s below the surface, it’s also safer for kids, pets, and gardens.

Fits Any Property

Brand new slab in Mount Barker? Old weatherboard in Prospect? It doesn’t matter. The system can be installed on all property types appropriately.

Here’s one real scenario a local shared online:

“When I bought this property, the agent told me this was a termite trap that needed changing once a year. I’ve seen online. What is it?”

And the reply:

“This could be a retic system, if it’s next to your house. They generally require refill every 3 years, depending on the system. You should have a termite management sticker in the meter box or under your kitchen sink.”

termite reticulation system feedback

That’s the thing. Most homeowners have no idea what they’ve got until a pest control crew explains it.

How to Refill a Termite Reticulation System

This is the bit many homeowners forget. The system doesn’t work forever unless you top it up.

How Often?

Every 3–5 years is standard. Sandy soils or high-termite-pressure areas might need shorter cycles.

Why Use a Licensed Pest Controller?

DIY is risky. Too little chemical and the barrier system has holes. Too much and you waste hundreds of dollars’ worth of product. A licensed termite control service person knows the exact dose for optimal protection.

What’s Involved?

  • Inspection: check refill points and signs of termite activity.
  • Termite reticulation refill: pump in new treatment through the pipes.
  • Reseal: close refill points to keep pressure and safety.

Tip: Don’t just refill blindly. Pair it with an annual termite inspection so you know the barrier is doing its job.

Advantages Over Other Termite Systems

You’ve got a few options when it comes to termite protection: sprays, baiting stations, and full barrier systems. A termite reticulation system isn’t the only choice, but it does come with some serious perks that make it stand out.

Lasts Longer

Surface sprays are a quick fix. They fade after a year or so, and you’re back to square one. Retic systems, on the other hand, are built to last decades. As long as you keep up the refills every 3–5 years, the barrier stays strong.

For example, we’ve seen homes in Adelaide Hills that had systems installed in the late 2000s. The homeowners kept to the refill schedule, and nearly 15 years on, they’ve had zero termite activity in the house. Compare that to a neighbour who relied on sprays and ended up with termites in their subfloor within four years. The difference is in the maintenance.

No Lifestyle Interruption

Because it’s underground, you don’t even notice it’s there. No odours, no chemical patches on the lawn, no pest guy wandering around your lounge room with a spray can. The refill points are tucked neatly outside. It’s one of those “set it up properly and get on with life” solutions.

Even Chemical Spread

With surface sprays, it’s easy to miss spots. Termites only need one tiny gap, and they’re in. Reticulation systems pump treatment evenly through the soil via perforated pipes, so the whole perimeter is covered.

Think of it like watering a garden bed with a sprinkler hose compared to splashing buckets of water here and there. Which one gives you better coverage? The same logic applies here.

Better for the Environment

Because the treatment stays underground and is delivered evenly, you actually use less chemical overall. That means less runoff into drains, less exposure for pets and kids, and a cleaner way of handling termite prevention.

This is especially handy in Adelaide suburbs where homes back onto creeks or reserves. Homeowners are more conscious of what runs into the environment. So having a system that keeps things contained makes sense.

Common Questions From Homeowners

We get a lot of questions from Adelaide homeowners who are curious (or confused) about their systems. Here are the most common ones, with straight answers.

Is it safe for kids and pets?

Yes. The treatment sits underground, in the soil. Pets can play in the yard, kids can dig in the garden, and you don’t have to worry about them coming into contact with surface sprays. It’s one of the safest ways to manage termites around a family home.

What happens if I miss a refill?

The barrier weakens. It’s like leaving your front door unlocked. Termites are clever little things.. They’ll find that gap and take advantage of it. We’ve seen cases where just one missed refill lets termites march straight through to the subfloor. And again, you may be lucky not to get an infestation.

Do I still need inspections?

Yes, you do. A reticulation system isn’t some permanent fix that keeps termites out forever. Termites are stubborn little things. They’ll keep looking for weak spots, especially if the soil around your home sees moisture levels change from time to time.

We’ve seen plenty of Adelaide homes where the system was in place, but the owners still booked yearly inspections. One homeowner had an eight-year-old timber frame house with a retic system installed during the build. Each year, the installer came out, did the inspection, and gave them a report. They never had termites, but the risk level in the reports wasn’t always the same. Some years the inspector marked it as moderate risk, and other years it was classed as high risk.

termite reticulation system review

That shows that conditions around your home don’t stay the same. Weather, garden works, and nearby building activity; all of it can affect how much termite pressure your place is under. An inspection keeps you updated, makes sure your barrier is still working, and lets you know if you need a refill sooner rather than later.

Refills and inspections are like a termite prevention package. One keeps the barrier topped up, the other makes sure nothing has slipped through.

Adelaide Case Studies

Here’s what happens in the real world.

A family in Glenelg had a system put in during their build. They’ve stuck to the 3-year refill cycle and booked inspections each year. Twelve years later, still no termite damage.

A couple in the inner north skipped refills. They assumed once installed, it lasted forever. Wrong. A few years later, termites chewed into their floor joists. Meanwhile, the termite reticulation system cost for refills? A few hundred.

And when those with a reticulation system are asked which pest control they use for the installation, one summed it up online:

“Allstate. No complaints! It has been in place for about eight years now. We sometimes have activity in the stations, and usually by the next visit, they are gone. We got a very old post-war home and found evidence of damage previously.”

termite reticulation system case study

Eight years? Yes, sometimes. When installed by us with enough refills and regular annual inspections, you’ll get the same experience as the above.

Wrapping It Up

A termite reticulation system is an underground defence that gives you control over termites before they move in. It’s reliable, discreet, and saves you a fortune compared to fixing chewed timbers later.

Call Allstate Pest Control:

  • To install it properly.
  • Refill it on schedule.
  • And keep up with regular termite inspections.

Do that, and you’ll sleep easy knowing your home has a protective barrier against one of Australia’s costliest pests.

Call Allstate Pest Control Adelaide on 08 8371 1277 or book an inspection with us online. We’ll help you install, refill, and maintain your system the right way.

Why Regular Termite Inspection Protects Your Home from Damage

Why Regular Termite Inspection Protects Your Home from Damage

What questions will this article answer?

Considering that the cost of termite damage in Australia exceeds $1.5 billion each year, a termite inspection is hands down one of the smartest things you can do for your house.

They don’t rattle pots and pans when they arrive. They slip in quietly, chew through your timber. And before you know it, you’re staring at hollow floors or sagging roof beams.

At Allstate Pest Control, we see these all the time; unfortunately, often years after the first invasion, when the damage is already done. We’ve seen homes saved by early inspections, and others ruined when inspections were skipped. That’s why we bang on about it so much.

What is a Termite Inspection?

A termite inspection is a thorough examination of a property to detect signs of termite activity, infestation, or damage. This process visually inspects various parts of the property, including the subfloor, roof void, internal and external areas, and surrounding outdoor spaces.

Conducted by a licensed termite inspector, professional termite inspections utilise specialised equipment such as thermal imaging cameras, moisture metres, and termite detection devices. These tools help identify termite activity and damage that might not be visible to the naked eye, ensuring a comprehensive property assessment. For those in South Australia, our termite inspections in Adelaide services are tailored to address the specific challenges of the region.

Why Termite Inspections Matter

It’s official – termites cost Australian homes more in damage every year than floods, storms, and fires combined. 1 in 3 homes will face a termite attack in their lifetime. It’s not a maybe. It’s a matter of when.

Worse, if you’ve ever spotted termites around or had a home invasion that wasn’t treated well, chances are… they are coming back!

Here’s why regular inspections matter:

  • Damage isn’t cheap: We’ve seen repair bills ranging from $10,000 to $100,000. Your insurance usually won’t even touch it.
  • Annual checks keep costs down: A few hundred bucks once a year can save a lifetime of headaches and life savings.
  • Every home is fair game: Doesn’t matter if you’re in a 1950s weatherboard or a brand-new brick veneer, if there’s timber, termites are interested.
  • Stress is avoidable: Catching active termites early makes treatments quicker, cheaper, and far less stressful and costly.

Skipping inspections is like ignoring that rattle in your car engine. Sure, it still runs, but for how long?

Book a termite inspection in Adelaide once a year. It’s cheaper than regret.

How Often Do I Need a Termite Inspection?

According to the AEPMA (Australian Environmental Pest Managers’ Association) Code of Practice for Termite Management, timber pest inspections should be performed at least once a year, depending on your home’s risk level.

Termites are known to cause extensive and costly problems to homes and businesses. It’s estimated that one in five Adelaide homes will fall victim to termite destruction, and the average cost of treating and repairing the damage is around $10,000 (according to the AEPMA).

What’s worse is that termite damage is considered preventable, so it’s not covered by home and contents insurance. Taking precautions against termite infestation is well worth the long-term investment, especially when the cost of an inspection is comparatively low, at around $200.

Don’t leave your annual termite inspection too late!
Make an appointment today

or

Common Signs of Termite Activity

We analyse this regularly – most recently in our post, which talks about the six signs of termite activity. People often miss the early warnings. Termites are sneaky like that. But if you know what to look for, you’ve got a fighting chance.

Keep an eye out for:

  • Timber that sounds hollow when tapped.
  • Mud tubes or soil tracks along walls or posts.
  • Piles of discarded wings near doors and windows.
  • Doors and windows that suddenly stick.
  • Clicking sounds in the walls (yes, termites can be noisy eaters).

One Adelaide homeowner thought the hollow floorboard in his lounge was “just old timber.” Within months, the entire floor collapsed. It appeared that the culprit was a subterranean termite colony quietly chewing away below. Don’t make that mistake.

What a Termite Inspection Involves

An inspection isn’t a quick look and a shrug. It’s a proper process. Here’s what it includes:

Visual Checks

Inspectors go through every accessible part of the house, walls, floors, roof space, skirting boards, even the garden sheds and pergolas. They’re looking for cracks, damp spots, mud tunnels, and any other signs of termite activity.

Moisture Testing

Moisture is like a welcome mat for termites. Using meters, inspectors pick up damp spots behind walls, under bathrooms, and in kitchens. That’s often where the first signs appear.

Tools of the Trade

Professional termite inspections use gear like:

  • Thermal imaging cameras to spot heat changes from colonies.
  • Moisture meters to pick up leaks termites love.
  • Borescopes to peek inside walls and timber.

For educational purposes, we’ve explained how we conduct a regular termite inspection in this short video.

Types of Termite Inspections

Not all termite inspections are the same. Here’s the rundown.

Pre-Purchase Inspections

Before you sign the dotted line for a new home, get a building and termite inspection. Too many Adelaide buyers skip this and end up with a mortgage plus a termite problem costing tens of thousands of AUD. One family in the Hills bought a weatherboard with capping and still found termites within a year.

Annual Building and Termite Inspection

This is the standard every homeowner should follow. We know a Mawson Lakes family that books theirs every year. Inspectors found mud tubes early, treated them, and saved what could’ve been $20,000 in roof frame repairs. You’ve got two choices: call a roofer for a reroofing quote or a termite service for an inspection.

Termite and Pest Inspection Packages

Why stop at termites? Many combine checks with broader pest control, ants, spiders, rodents, the lot. Landlords especially appreciate these packages for maintaining properties in good condition.

At Allstate Pest Control, our termite inspection and treatment services are set up to cover all bases.

Termite Inspection and Treatment

Finding termites isn’t the end of the world. Doing nothing about it is. Once the termite inspection results are in, treatments are mapped out.

  • Baiting systems: Termites take the bait back to the colony and share it.
  • Chemical barriers: Applied in soil around the house to block entry.
  • Spot treatments: For infestations in walls, floors, or other localised spots.
  • Monitoring systems: Regular check-ups to make sure they don’t return.

A professional termite treatment in Adelaide is always tailored. It depends on the species, soil type, and the layout of the house.

Various Termite Species in Adelaide

South Australia has a few troublemakers, but subterranean termites are one of the nastiest types of termites here. They’re silent, fast, and destructive.

Main offenders include:

  • Coptotermes acinaciformis: responsible for most of the big structural damage we see.
  • Schedorhinotermes intermedius: smaller but aggressive in numbers.
  • Nasutitermes exitiosus: not as bad but still a headache for fences, sheds, and decking.

You probably can’t identify them unless you call a termite service. Yet, knowing the species makes all the difference in termite management. That’s why proper ID is step one in every job.

Noticing signs of a potential termite attack? Act fast!

Organise an urgent inspection today

or

How Much Does a Termite Inspection Cost?

At Allstate Pest Control, we offer termite inspections from $198. This figure can vary depending on the size of your home or property, the extent of the inspection and whether additional equipment is required to improve accessibility or detection.

A standard termite inspection typically costs between $200 and $500, while a comprehensive inspection can range from $1,000 to $2,000 or more. However, the cost of a termite inspection is a small price compared to the potential cost of repairing termite damage.

What Factors Affect the Cost of Termite Inspection?

The cost of a termite inspection can vary based on several factors, including:

  • Property size and complexity: Larger or more complex properties may require more inspection time and resources.
  • Location and accessibility: Hard-to-reach areas or properties in remote locations can affect costs.
  • Type of inspection: Standard, comprehensive, or specialised inspections may have different pricing.
  • Equipment and technology used: Advanced tools and technology can increase costs but provide more accurate results.
  • Inspector’s experience and qualifications: More experienced and qualified inspectors may charge higher fees.
  • Frequency of inspections: Regular inspections, such as annual or bi-annual, may offer cost savings compared to one-time inspections.

By following this plan, the new sections will seamlessly integrate into the existing article, providing valuable information while maintaining the same tone and style.

If I Live in a New Home, Will I Need a Termite Inspection?

Whether your home is new or old, pesky and persistent termites can still find their way into your property. Here are some other factors that may influence your susceptibility to an outbreak:

Hot and humid climates

For a significant part of the year, most areas in Australia, including Adelaide, have favourable weather conditions, which pose a high risk for termite infestations.

Neighbours with termites

If adjoining properties have confirmed outbreaks, termites may have also spread to your property, as they’re able to travel 50 to 100 metres away from their nest. If your neighbours have termites, we recommend that you conduct a property inspection just in case.

Water leaks

If you live in a high-moisture, damp climate, or you’ve had a plumbing issue with water leakage, you may have attracted termites. In this case, you may require more frequent inspections.

Previous termite infestation

If there has been a previous outbreak in your area, this could mean that termites were able to penetrate any previous barriers that were installed.

Landscaping

Changes to your yard can compromise your existing termite barrier and offer termites new entry points to your property and home.

Termite inspections before purchasing a home

For extra protection against termites, particularly if you live in a high-risk area, Allstate can conduct pest inspections before you commit to buying your dream home.
We’ll let you know if we detect any termites or if the house has other risk factors that may predispose your new place to a termite outbreak, such as dampness.

For safe and effective termite control,
speak to a termite technician today

or

How to Treat a Termite Outbreak?

Your inspection report will include all the necessary information to help you prevent termites.
Depending on the severity of your outbreak and the layout of your home, we’ll propose a customised treatment plan using various types of termiticides and offer tips on preventing future outbreaks. It is crucial to seek professional termite treatment to ensure the infestation is managed effectively and safely.

Premise Treated Zones

Premise is a non-repellent termiticide that causes termites to become confused and disoriented, lowering their defence mechanisms. This makes them vulnerable to deadly diseases from fungi and soil microorganisms. By placing Premise in specific areas, known as treated zones, strategically around your property, more termites will interact with the product. While Premise is toxic to termites, it is safe for humans, the environment and other wildlife.

Sentricon® Always Active™

This product contains in-ground termiticide-coated rods designed to attract termites and then disrupt their growth and development by inhibiting the moulting process. By positioning a Sentricon® station in prime termite foraging areas, termites carry the termiticide back to the nest, spreading through the entire colony. This offers powerful protection against termite infestations by preventing them from happening in the first place.

Reduce your risk of attracting termites

Garden and yard maintenance is essential. Store piles of wood and timber away from your house in a dry place, remove tree stumps and clear away piles of vegetation and litter.
Ensure wooden furniture in the home is sealed, treated and moisture-free.
Repair sources of leaks as quickly as possible, including pipes, drains and roof damage.

For a reliable and experienced termite inspection service,
contact us today

or

Case Studies: Lessons from Real Homeowners

Here’s what actually happens when people do, or don’t, book pest inspections.

  • Saved by annual checks: A homeowner in Adelaide’s east avoided $10,000 in damage thanks to a routine inspection that spotted early mud tubes under a deck. Quick treatment followed and problem solved.
  • Caught by fine print: A couple with a 2009 build thought their warranty covered them.

Turns out, termites slipped in between the render and brickwork. They had no inspections. Warranty didn’t apply either. So, they paid the full cost.

termite inspection review

  • DIY gone wrong: A new buyer asked online how to inspect their own termite barriers. The best advice they got was to stop mucking around and engage a licensed inspector.

These are real experiences of Adelaide homeowners. And they prove one thing: nothing beats professional termite inspections.

Inspections Cost Far Less than a New Roof or Furniture

Regular termite inspections aren’t overkill. They’re essential. They stop infestations before they spread, protect your home’s value, and save you from unplanned repair bills.

If you’re in Adelaide, do yourself a favour: book a pest control termite inspection once a year.

Call Allstate Pest Control Adelaide for that on 08 8371 1277 or book a termite inspection online now. We’re locals, we’re licensed, and we know how to keep your home safe from termites.
Better to spend a little now than lose a lot on a new roof structure, skirting boards, or furniture later.

Better to spend a little now than lose a lot on a new roof structure, skirting boards, or furniture later.

How to Treat Termites

How to Treat Termites

Highly destructive and hard to detect, termites are thought to cost Adelaide homeowners between $5,000 to $10,000 per year in repair bills. Find out how to treat termites infesting your home in today’s Hivemind blog.

What questions will this article answer?

How to treat termites in your home or business

Estimated to cost billions to repair every year, termite damage is a widespread issue to homes and businesses all across Australia. Unfortunately, this is not claimable through insurance as it is deemed to be highly preventable. So it’s no surprise that termite protection is a serious matter.

So, how do you treat termites in your house? Chances are, you’ll see the destruction they’ve caused before you actually see them in action. To limit further problems in your home, we recommend calling a professional pest control service ASAP as the best course of action.

 However, there are a couple of DIY solutions that may come in useful the meantime. Keep reading to learn more!

Diatomaceous earth

This can be helpful if you’re wondering how to treat termites in a house naturally. Readily available from hardware stores for purchase, diatomaceous earth is a fine powder with naturally abrasive properties that can puncture a termite’s exoskeleton, leading to moisture loss. You can sprinkle this around the perimeter of your home, as well as potential entry sites and areas with high termite activity.

Boric acid

A slow-acting but versatile termite treatment option, boric acid damages a termite’s outer shell, and can be purchased in a powdered form. You can sprinkle it directly around the perimeter of your home to prevent termite entry, where it will also penetrate deep into small crevices. Or, mix it with just enough water to form a thick paste and spread it over infested timber with a brush. You can even dissolve a teaspoon in a cup of warm water to make a spray.

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

or

White vinegar

With its high acidic content and disinfectant properties, white vinegar works to dehydrate termites and remove their pheromone scent trails. You can prepare a solution with equal parts of vinegar and water mixed together, along with a squeeze of lemon juice to further bump up the acidity level. Spray this potent acidic concoction over areas with damp wood, including foundations.

Essential oils

With natural insecticide properties, the following essential oils are effective against termites as well as a range of other crawling insects:

Clove oil

Use a few drops of clove oil mixed with water to spray around termite hotspots.

Neem oil

With an unpleasant, bitter smell, neem oil disrupts termite growth hormones and developmental processes. It can be injected directly into damaged wood to target termites, or you can make a spray with 1 tablespoon of neem oil to 2 litres of water, with a dash of liquid detergent. You can apply this directly to termites, hollow timber structures and potential entry points such as door and window frames.

Orange oil

Containing d-limonene, an active ingredient which breaks down termite exoskeletons and metabolic processes, orange oil can be diluted with water and sprayed over termite hotspots, mud tubes and affected timber.

Cardboard traps

For cellulose- and moisture-loving termites, wet cardboard traps are not only an effective bait but are also extremely easy to prepare. All you’ll need are a few pieces of flat, corrugated cardboard soaked in water. You can stack them in areas of high termite activity, for example, near mud tubes or damaged wood. If you’re wanting to know how to treat termites in a wall, place a cardboard trap against it and watch for termite activity. Remember to check these traps daily and replace them frequently.

Don’t let termites invade your walls, get expert advice on how to treat termites in wall structures today.

or

Petroleum jelly

Thick, impermeable and sometimes laced with phenol, petroleum jelly is a surprisingly useful termite deterrent as it starves termites of oxygen. You can apply it liberally to timber-based surfaces and structures to create a tough physical barrier to termite entry.

Salt

As one of the best and most easily accessible dehydrating agents around, salt will draw water away from termites, who rely heavily upon moisture to survive.

You can simply sprinkle salt around problem areas or make a strong saline spray by dissolving a large amount of salt in warm water.

Nematode worms

As natural termite predators with a particular appetite for larvae,nematode worms are useful in controlling a termite population. Being microscopic in size, they’re able to crawl inside a termite’s body through tiny openings, then release poisonous bacteria.

These worms are not harmful for people, pets or the ecology of your yard.

Safeguard your property from sneaky termites, speak to an expert today

or

Professional termite control

The best way to combat termites is to prevent them from venturing near your home in the first place. While you can do your best at reducing sources of moisture around your yard and removing dead tree stumps and woodpiles, subterranean termites happen to be very discreet in their movements. You could still miss the earliest signs of an outbreak.

 If you’ve tried DIY options and are still wondering how to treat termites at home safely and for good, professional intervention is the most reliable solution.

Yearly termite inspections

At Allstate, we recommend yearly termite inspections by licensed termite inspectors, per government regulations, to ensure that you and your family stay safe from infestation. More frequent inspections may be required if your property is considered as high risk, for example, if you live near a creek, or your home has previously had a termite issue.

Premise termite treatment spray

If termites are detected at your inspection, we offer a fast-acting treatment that can be applied directly to the soil and foundations underneath your home. Premise non-repellent termiticide spray contains imidacloprid, a targeted active ingredient that works within days to disrupt the termite nervous system and reduce the termite population.

Sentricon Always Active termite bait stations

For the best long-term protection, we recommend having a Sentricon termite barrier installed around your property. With stations positioned underground, 30 centimetres away from the walls of your home, spaced 3 metres apart, the baits are embedded with a powerful termiticide called hexaflumuron. When our clients ask us how to best treat termites at home, you can’t beat a Sentricon system.

Choose Allstate for reliable and long-lasting termite management

If you’re noticing signs of termites around your yard, chances are that it’s only a matter of time before they begin to compromise the structure of your home.

At Allstate, we’ve been protecting homes and businesses from termite attacks since 1986.

Available 24/7 for urgent enquiries, our licensed pest technicians are fully equipped and highly trained to offer comprehensive termite inspections and targeted termite treatments.

Covered by competitive warranties and with payment plans on offer, you can have our experts at Allstate over to termite proof your home today.

Need expert help on how to treat termites safely and effectively? Our team is ready now.

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Are Termites Active in Winter?

Are Termites Active in Winter?

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

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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.

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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

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How Termites Adapt To Changing Seasons

How Termites Adapt To Changing Seasons

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.

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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.

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    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.

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    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

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    Understanding the life cycle of a termite

    Understanding the life cycle of a termite

    INSIDE THE TERMITE LIFE CYCLE: HOW A COLONY THRIVES AND EXPAND

    Most people think termites are just tiny bugs that eat wood. But behind every damaged beam is a well-organised termite colony, hard at work, non-stop, 24/7. The termite life cycle is a finely-tuned system. One that turns fragile termite eggs into powerful worker termites, soldier termites, and future kings and queens.

    Imagine a single egg becoming part of a million-strong colony under your floorboards. That’s how it starts. And if you don’t catch it early, they’ll quietly feast for years. At Allstate Pest Control, helping Adelaide homeowners and businesspeople with termite control starts with understanding the cycle: how eggs are laid, hatched, plus termites responsible for colony reproduction, as well as how termite larvae grow, change, and build their empire.

    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

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    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 physically evolve and develop the necessary body structures for their caste, or adult role in the colony, as soldiers, workers, or reproductive termites.

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

    A nymph’s normal maturity time is around one year, 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

    Workers make up the vast majority of a colony and are responsible for caring for younger termites, building and maintaining the nest, foraging, and feeding other termites. They are white or pale brown in colour 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, 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 in colour 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

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    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, a termite inspection is recommended 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.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How long is the life cycle of a termite?

    From egg to adult, the termite life cycle usually takes several months. Some mature termites live just a year or two. But queen termites can live up to 25 years, constantly laying eggs to grow the colony.

    What is the life cycle of a termite in Australia?

    In Australia, termite species like subterranean termites follow a caste-based system. They hatch from eggs, pass through the termite nymphs stage, and develop into workers, soldier termites, or reproductive termites. Climate and colony needs influence how quickly they develop.

    What happens if the termite queen dies?

    Without queen termites, egg production stops. But colonies often have backup reproductive termites ready to take her place. So unless all reproductives are prevented, the colony may still survive and grow.

    Do termite castes ever change roles?

    In some cases, yes. Certain termite nymphs can shift into different termite castes if a colony loses key members. For example, a worker termite may develop into a reproductive termite if the colony lacks a queen or king.

    What kills termites the fastest?

    Professional-grade termiticides work the fastest, especially those used in bait stations and soil treatments. These target worker termites, which then carry the poison back to the nest. That’s the most efficient way to prevente the entire termite colony.

    Choose Allstate Pest Control for Safe & Effective Termite Management

    At Allstate Pest Control, we understand how hard it can be to detect termites, let alone differentiate between the various stages of the termite life cycle. That’s why we offer free termite inspections to all homes and businesses across Adelaide.

    Founded in 1986, Allstate Pest Control 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

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