Commonly called ‘white ants’, termites are actually more closely related to cockroaches. But they are a much more destructive pest.
There are hundreds of species of termites in Australia, most of which pose no threat to houses and other buildings. But the few species that can cause trouble are responsible for more damage to houses each year than fires, floods or storms.
Types of termites
Termites can be grouped into three basic categories: dampwood, drywood and subterranean. Subterranean termites are the main threat to timber in buildings, which makes them a danger to the biggest investment you may ever make – your house.
Feeding habits
Termites feed on cellulose, which is found in all plant material including the timber used in your home construction. They travel through the ground constantly foraging for food and moisture from their nest that may be hundreds of metres away.
Steel frames are not immune
Even steel-framed houses are not immune from termite attack. The termites can still get in and destroy wooden roof trusses, furniture and wood trim such as architraves. Some species of timber are resistant to termites, but none is entirely ‘termite-proof’.
Don’t wait until it’s too late
People don’t usually know termites are there until substantial damage has been done. They can eat anything made from wood inside the home and even gyprock and plasterboard walls, often leaving just a paper-thin layer of paint. Unfortunately, by this time they are right through the home, no matter how it is constructed.
