Why Flying Termites Matter
Seeing flying termites, also known as alates, is a significant warning sign that shouldn’t be ignored. In Brisbane, the humid climate creates ideal conditions for termites to thrive, and the presence of flying termites can indicate a nearby mature colony looking to expand. Acting swiftly can prevent costly damage and protect your home from severe infestations.
Steps to Take When You Encounter Flying Termites
1. Identify the Flying Termites
Flying termites are often mistaken for harmless flying ants. Here’s how to differentiate them:
- Wings: Termites have four wings of equal size that are longer than their body, while ants have front wings larger than the hind wings.
- Body: Termites have a straight, uniform waist, compared to the pinched waist of ants.
- Antennae: Termite antennae are straight and beaded, whereas ants have elbowed antennae.
Being able to identify these insects can help you act appropriately.
2. Avoid Panicking and Taking DIY Measures
While it’s tempting to use off-the-shelf insecticides, these are often ineffective for termites and can even drive them deeper into your home’s structure, making professional treatment more difficult. Avoid disturbing mud tubes or trying to kill them yourself, as this can spread the infestation further.
3. Collect Evidence and Document the Sightings
- Photograph Them: Take clear pictures of the flying termites or any piles of discarded wings you find.
- Check for More Signs: Look for mud tubes along your home’s foundation or hollow-sounding timber that may indicate further activity.
This evidence can be useful when consulting a pest control specialist.
When to Call a Professional
Flying termites inside your home or even around your property should prompt immediate action. In Brisbane, a professional termite inspection can assess the situation accurately and recommend suitable treatments. Termite Guys Brisbane provides expert services, utilising state-of-the-art equipment like thermal cameras and Termatrac motion detectors for comprehensive assessments.
Tips for Preventing Future Infestations
1. Minimise Moisture Around Your Home
- Fix leaking taps, pipes, and air conditioning units that may be creating damp conditions.
- Ensure proper drainage around the foundation of your home to keep the soil dry.
2. Maintain Your Garden
- Keep mulch, wood, and other organic materials away from the foundation of your home.
- Trim back trees and shrubs that touch your house, as they provide easy access for termites.
3. Conduct Regular Termite Inspections
- Australian standards recommend annual termite inspections for most homes, or more frequently for high-risk properties. Regular checks can detect issues early, saving you from expensive repairs.
Proactive Measures to Protect Your Home
- Chemical Treated Zones: Installing a Termidor treatment around your property can create an effective barrier against termites. This non-repellent treatment is undetectable to termites and transfers back to the colony, wiping it out from the source.
- Termite Baiting Systems: In some cases, baiting systems may be used as a supplementary measure for ongoing protection.
Both solutions require professional installation and monitoring for long-term effectiveness.
Conclusion: Don’t Delay, Act Today
Flying termites are a clear signal that your property is at risk. By taking immediate action and enlisting professional help, you can safeguard your home from devastating termite damage. Remember, prevention and early detection are key. If you see any signs of termite activity, don’t hesitate to contact Termite Guys Brisbane for a thorough, expert inspection.
Call to Action:
Ready to protect your home? Contact Termite Guys Brisbane today at 0447 268 257 or visit our website to schedule a professional termite inspection. We specialise in keeping your home termite-free with tailored solutions and cutting-edge technology.
Stay proactive. Stay protected.
