RESIDENTIAL Property
Queensland home owners have been warned of major termite swarms resulting from perfect breeding conditions of high moisture and a good food source fuelled by recent heavy rains.
Ian Agnew, Queensland state manager of Archicentre said: “Often the first sign of a termite infestation is the sudden appearance of winged termites appearing in a home, ushering in the beginning of termite 'swarming' season with termites looking to start new colonies in homes.
“Following a swarm of several hundred thousand winged termites, which usually lasts a few minutes, the swarmers fly a short distance, then fall to the ground and lose their wings, “The vast majority of swarmer termites die within a day or so of the swarm, leaving tell tale small piles of wings on window sills, countertops or floors, which provide a major alert to the home owner that they have termites present.
“Soon after the swarm, females will emit a scent to attract male termites for mating and after pairing, the termites search for a location to begin a new colony nearby."
Mr Agnew said homeowners throughout Queensland should be on the lookout for tell tale signs of termite swarming to protect their properties from severe damage:
• Swarms of flying termites both inside and outside of the house.
• Small, papery piles of wings on window sills, counter tops or floors.
• Small piles of wood residue or shavings, as well as tiny holes in wood, crumbling dry walls or sagging doors.
• Bubbled paint or visible, pencil sized mud tubes running across concrete or connecting soil to wood.
Mr Agnew said that termite swarming was triggered by a combination of several successive days of above average temperatures followed by light rain. “Swarms activity varies geographically but occurs most often starting in the Spring - October to November and ends in Autumn - March to April. They can occur any time throughout the warm season.”
Mr Agnew said Archicentre’s pest inspectors had seen homes with up to $100,000 in termite damage that would not have been evident without a comprehensive inspection. However, they have also seen cases where people have spent thousands of dollars on pest treatments that were not needed.
“It is critical that home buyers and home owners seek independent professional advice.
“Home owners should take action to dry out sub-floors by increasing ventilation, removing debris and generally allowing more air to circulate.”
Mr Agnew said termite activity slowed down in the winter, but new nests might be being established now which would lead to problems during spring and summer.
