Surf Coast Pest Control Termite Inspections & Treatments

Termites are considered an insect belonging to the order Isoptera. Termites breakdown plant fibre cellulose (timber) with the aid of microorganisms in their digestive system. Only 20 species in Victoria of the 350 present in Australia are known to cause damage to buildings. Termites of concern in Victoria are categorised as either subterranean or dampwood termites.

Termite colonies in the south west of Victoria are often found in the root crown of trees, under logs and sometimes within buildings if a constant source of moisture is present. They will generally travel 50-100m from the nest to scavenge for sources of food. A termite colony consists of castes members referred to as workers, soldiers, alates and reproductives. 

Termites are known to attack sound timber in buildings, it's estimated termites infest 1 in 5 homes in Australia and the cost of damages in severe cases can be in excess of $100,000.00. Termite damage is not covered under home insurance as termites are classified as insects which are considered a preventable problem, as such the home owner is responsible for damages and prevention.

 Common termite species located in the Surf Coast, Geelong, Bellarine, Colac & Otways regions include:

• Coptotermes acinaformis
• Coptotermes frenchi
• Porotermes adamsoni
• Heterotermes

Termites are attracted to moisture and decayed timber, by reducing the conducive conditions on-site and within a structure home owners and businesses can significantly reduce the risk of termite infestations. The use of naturally resistant timbers, such as red gum and cypress pine in construction and ensuring any timbers used on-site are chemically treated  in accordance with the Australian Standards are practical ways of reducing the risk of termite attack. 

Wood Borer damage is considerably different to termite damage and shouldn't be confused, the majority of timber in service within Australia will never be attacked by borers. 

There are three types of borers we're concerned about during timber pest inspections. These borers damage timber during the larvae stage of their life and will pupate within the tunnels emerging as beetles through exit holes located on the timbers surface. The habits of each borer are different and aid in the identification and advice given during inspections. 

Depending on the species borers may infest both pines and hardwoods or hardwoods only. Adult beetles emerge through exit holes 1.5-2.0mm in diameter and will often attack the sapwood but are also known to attack the heartwood of timber too. Structural collapse is seldom in larger timbers members but commonly occurs in flooring timbers where the majority of the timber is made up of sapwood.  

Common borers species located within the Surf Coast, Geelong, Bellarine, Colac & Otways regions include:

• Pinhole borer (Ambrosia beetle)
• Furniture beetle (Anobium)
• Powderpost beetle (Lyctus brunneus)