How Long Does Termite Spraying Last: Everything You Need To Know About Termite Control
Termites are some of Australia’s most insidious pests. They can get into almost any property, and even the smallest infestation can cause thousands of dollars of damage. Between 130,000 and 180,000 homes are attacked by termites every year. If you want to minimise the risk to your home, you’ll need to invest in a termite management system and other control methods.
Modern termite controls are highly effective at keeping white ants at bay. Combined with preventative treatments like mesh, termite sprays can stop pests in their tracks, and they can even kill termites in their nests. In this article we’re going to go over everything you need to know about termite control, and how long you can expect termite spraying to last.
Common Termite Treatment Methods
There are more than 300 species of termites in Australia. That means dealing with infestations requires a combination of methods that are tailored to suit the species. Depending on which type of termites you’re dealing with, a pest control company is likely to recommend:
- Termite sprays. These are the most common and affordable solution to termite infestations. Termite sprays use liquid or foam chemicals to kill termites on contact. The spray then creates a barrier that termites can’t pass through, over or under, providing years of protection against infestation.
- Termite mesh. The Queensland Building and Construction Commission has made it mandatory for all homes to be built with some type of termite protection. Termite mesh can be laid under the slab and around the perimeter of the home to prevent termites from entering through the ground.
- Baiting & Monitoring systems. Termite baiting and monitoring systems are designed to kill nests from within. Baits are set up above or below ground level. The termites feed on the bait and take it back to the nest where it is slowly fed to the entire colony. This causes the termites to die gradually, which stops them from associating the colony’s demise with the bait.
- Fumigation. Fumigation may be used to deal with extreme infestations. During fumigation, your house is filled with fumigants designed to penetrate timbers and kill the entire colony at once. Fumigation is rare in Australia, but it may be the best option for serious infestations of drywood termites that are found in northern parts of the country.
How Long Does Termite Spraying Last?
Most modern termite sprays are rated to last 5-8 years. This is less time than older products (such as organochlorines and organophosphorus chemicals) that were rated to last 10-20 years. However, modern options are less harmful to your home, pets and the environment, making them a better overall solution.
Organochlorines were withdrawn from use in 1995. If your home was treated in 1995 or earlier, your termite spray is no longer effective, and it’s time to book an inspection.
The table below shows the manufacturer’s recommended lifespan for the industry’s most common termite sprays:
| Treatment | Lifespan |
| Organochlorines | 20 years |
| Organophosphorus | 10 years |
| Pyrethroids | Up to 10 years |
| Termidor | 8 years |
| Altriset | 6 years |
| Premise | 5 years |
Your pest control company will supply information on the products used and how long they’re expected to last.
5 Signs That Your Home May Have a Termite Infestation
The best thing you can do to manage a termite infestation is to act quickly. Termites spread rapidly, and the damage they cause adds up. It’s a good idea to book a yearly termite inspection with a pest control company. In between appointments, keep an eye out for signs like:
- Mud tunnels. Subterranean termites create pencil-sized mud tunnels that allow them to travel above ground. Look for mud tunnels around your home (inside and out), particularly around the foundations.
- Bubbling or cracking paint. If the paint on the gyprock and timber trim is starting to bubble or crack, it can be a sign that termites have worked their way into the house.
- Flying termites. Swarms of white, flying insects can be a strong sign that termites are nesting somewhere on your property.
- Noises in the walls. Termites make noises in the walls as they eat away at your home’s timbers. It’s common to hear faint clicking, rustling, scratching and buzzing sounds.
- Hollow or damaged timber. The surest sign of a termite infestation is visible damage to timber. Things like timber trim pieces or trees in your yard may sound hollow when tapped, or they may even show signs of termite tunnels. Contact your pest control company immediately if you notice damaged timbers on your property.
Protect Your Home with Termite Spraying from Pete’s Pest Control!
Modern treatments have made it easier than ever to keep termites at bay. They’re some of the most stubborn pests to deal with, but the right pest control can protect your home. If it’s been a while since your last termite inspection then get in touch with Pete’s Pest Control! Pete’s Pest Control works all over Toowoomba. We offer a huge range of pest control services, including termite inspections, termite spraying and other treatment options. Our experienced team takes a tailored approach to deal with termites. We want to make sure your home is free of critters, so we customise your treatment to suit the type of infestation you’re dealing with. Get in touch today if you’d like to learn more or make an appointment with Pete’s Pest Control.
