Termite Treatments in Queensland

It is important to know how the timber and construction industries combat termites, and ensure that timber is the go to choice for building projects.

Treatment Methods

1. Chemical Barriers: These are chemicals applied to the soil around a building’s perimeter. They work by deterring or poisoning termites as they try to pass through the treated soil zone. They need regular inspections to ensure their efficacy over time.
2. Physical Barriers: Typically made of metal, mesh, or crushed rock, these barriers are designed to stop termites from entering structures. They are often integrated into the construction process but can also be retrofitted.
3. Treated Timber: This involves treating the timber itself with preservatives that deter or kill termites. It’s especially common in newer buildings where timber frames are pre-treated.
4. Baiting Systems: These involve setting up bait stations filled with termite-attractive materials that are poisoned. When termites feed on this bait, they carry the toxin back to their colony, gradually exterminating the entire group.

The Tropic of Capricorn

While the Tropic of Capricorn itself isn’t a strict boundary for termite distribution, the environments on either side of this line can differ, which may influence termite populations and activities. Here’s how:

1. Climate Differences:

• North of the Tropic: The areas north of the Tropic of Capricorn in Queensland generally have a tropical climate. This means more consistent rainfall and higher average temperatures year-round, conditions that are quite favorable for termites.
• South of the Tropic: Moving south of the Tropic, the climate becomes subtropical. While still warm and wet, especially in summer, there might be cooler winters and slightly less consistent rainfall compared to the north. This can influence termite activity, but it doesn’t mean termites are absent.