When it comes to protecting your home from the destructive nature of termites, choosing the right termite control solution is crucial. In Australia, where termites pose a significant threat to properties, it’s essential to consider the pros and cons of different options available. Read on to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of termite monitoring and baiting systems and chemical termite barriers (chemical soil treatments), with a particular focus on why our team at Pest2Kill, a leading pest and termite control company in Sydney, recommend and offer the Exterra Termite Baiting System.
What is a Termite Monitoring and Baiting System?
A termite monitoring and baiting system is a targeted approach to termite control that aims to eliminate termite colonies by both luring them into monitoring stations and applying bait or by applying bait directly to where termite activity is found around the property. Pest2Kill proudly offers the Exterra Termite Monitoring and Baiting System, a proven solution that uses highly attractive timber interceptors within monitoring stations and highly palatable bait to ensure its distributed through the entire colony.
Pros of Termite Baiting Systems:
Targeted Elimination:
Termite monitoring stations work by strategically installing them around your house and grounds in areas that are prone to termite foraging. These stations contain strips of Tasmanian oak (Eucalyptus regalans) which is palatable to all economically significant termite species. Once termites have been lured into these stations and detected, a highly attractive bait is applied to the termite activity. This termite bait is composed of mostly cellulose, with a very small amount of an undetectable insect growth regulator, designed to affect the termites moulting process, and be spread throughout the entire colony which eventually leads to its demise.
Environmentally Friendly:
Termite baiting systems minimise the use of broad spectrum chemicals in your soil and around your property. Unlike traditional chemical soil treatments, they specifically target the insect’s ability to moult and pose no risk to humans, pets or other non-target species.
Long-Term Protection:
Once installed, termite monitoring and baiting systems provide ongoing protection against future termite infestations. Regular inspections and maintenance ensure that your home remains termite-free for years to come.
Cons of Termite Baiting Systems:
Time:
Using bait to treat termite colonies typically requires multiple visits and so more time than single application of a chemical soil treatment. The process involves bait acceptance, consumption, and the gradual spread of the toxicant throughout the colony. However, the long-term benefits make this a worthwhile investment.
What is a Chemical Termite Barrier / Chemical Soil Treatment?
A chemical soil treatment used to be known as a chemical termite barrier, however this term is being phased out, as it implies that it stops termites from attacking the home and can give a false sense of security to the homeowner. It involves the application of chemicals into the ground around the perimeter of a structure to effect termites as they travel through the soil, however, does not have an effect on the actual termite colony.
Pros of Chemical Termite Barriers / Chemical Soil Treatments:
Immediate effect:
Chemical soil treatments provide an immediate defence against termites in a single application, reducing the chance of them entering and attacking the structure. If applied correctly around all possible entry points it can be effective against termite infestations being able to access the timbers of the house.
Address structural vulnerabilities promptly, sealing any gaps, cracks, and openings that rodents could use to enter and travel throughout the establishment.
Cons of Chemical Termite Barriers / Chemical Soil Treatments
Chemical Exposure:
Traditional chemical soil treatments rely on the heavy use of insecticides, which may pose health risks to humans and pets, particularly those with sensitivities or allergies. Insecticides also pose an environmental risk to non-target species in the surrounding ecosystem. Most termiticides are highly toxic to beneficial insects, such as bees and other pollinators, and if they leach into waterways can cause significant harm to aquatic organisms.
Inability to eliminate the termite colony:
Chemical soil treatments do not deal with the source of the problem, the actual termite colony which may be up to 100 metres away from the points of termite activity in your structure. The chemical only affects the termites it comes into contact with and cannot be transferred back to the actual nest. This means termites may remain active in the house or the property, particularly if the chemical barrier is not complete.
Limited Long-Term Effectiveness:
While chemical soil treatments may provide immediate protection, their effectiveness may diminish over time. Soil movement, degradation of chemicals, or the presence of undetected termite entry points can compromise the barrier’s efficacy. Creating a “barrier” around the entire structure is not always possible, particularly post construction, and unprotected concealed entry points often remain that can allow termites to bypass the treatment and enter the structure.
Price Difference in Australia:
The average price difference between termite baiting systems and chemical soil treatments in Australia can vary depending on several factors such as the size of the property, the level of termite infestation, and the specific products or treatments used. However, termite baiting systems generally tend to be more cost-effective in the long run due to their ongoing monitoring and maintenance, which helps prevent future infestations. It’s recommended to consult with a professional pest control company, like Pest2Kill, for an accurate assessment and quote tailored to your specific needs.
Why Pest2Kill Recommends Termite Baiting Systems:
Pest2Kill is proud to offer the Exterra Termite Baiting System as the preferred solution for termite control in Sydney. Here’s why:
Proven Success:
The Exterra Termite Baiting System has a proven track record of effectively eliminating termite colonies, providing long-term protection to homeowners in Australia for over 20 years.
Environmentally Friendly Approach
We prioritize the health and safety of our customers and the environment. The Exterra Termite Baiting System minimises chemical usage while efficiently eradicating termite colonies.
Ongoing Monitoring:
Our team of experts will regularly inspect and maintain the termite baiting stations, ensuring continuous protection against termites. This proactive approach gives you peace of mind knowing that your home is in good hands.
Protecting your home from termites is of utmost importance in Australia. While chemical soil treatments offer immediate protection, termite baiting systems like the Exterra Termite Baiting System provide eradication of the termite colony nest, long-term effectiveness, environmental friendliness, and ongoing monitoring. At Pest2Kill, we understand the unique challenges posed by termites in Sydney, and we recommend the Exterra Termite Baiting System as the ideal solution for homeowners seeking comprehensive termite control. Contact us today to learn more about our termite baiting services and safeguard your home from these destructive pests.
Contact Pest2Kill for a free termite inspection or to learn more about the Exterra Termite Baiting System
If you’re experiencing any kinds of pest issues and would like to speak to Pest2Kill for a no-obligation chat about how to manage your problem, call 02 7228 7022 or fill in this free quote form.
