Termite Management Solutions for New Builds

Concrete Slab Solutions

Termites can find their way in through cracks, joints, and penetrations present in concrete slabs. It’s possible steps should be taken prior to concrete being poured so it’s important to know exactly what you require for your new build early on in the process. Here’s how we address the vulnerabilities present in concrete slabs:

Pre-Pour Solutions

Before the concrete slab is poured, it's critical to prepare for termite protection by focusing on the slab penetrations where termites could enter.

Collars for Slab Penetrations. We install collars or barriers around areas where plumbing or electrical penetrations will pass through the concrete. These barriers are designed to prevent termites from traveling through the gaps inherent in the interface between concrete and penetrating objects. Ideally, these collars are installed before the steel reinforcement goes in, but we can also complete this just prior to the concrete pour.
Termite Barriers for Construction Joins. For construction joins—where different concrete sections meet—our preference is to install a termite barrier into this join pre-pour. This creates a barrier that termites cannot pass through. If installation pre-pour isn't feasible, a paint-on termite barriers installed after the pour may also be feasible.
Termite Barriers for Expansion Joins. For expansion joints, such as those in infill slabs or where concrete paving and driveways meet house foundations, termite barriers must be installed before the concrete is poured. A termite-repellent expansion foam can be used in place of the standard abelflex foam to block termite entry. Alternatively, reticulation system piping can be installed beneath the joint to provide protection.

Post-Pour Solutions

Once the slab is poured, additional termite protection measures are essential.

Perimeter Termite Sheeting. Termite sheeting is a common solution for preventing concealed termite entry around the slab perimeter, another common entry point for termites into a building. The sheeting is fixed along the slab perimeter beneath bottom plates and must be incorporated into to the external brickwork or cladding to block termites from making concealed entry at these points. Termite sheeting is a physical barrier, typically made of PVC infused with bifenthrin or deltamethrin, which prevents termites from traveling through it. You can read up on some pitfalls associated with termite sheeting in another blog post, The Pitfalls of Termite Sheeting.
Reticulation Systems. One of the most effective termite protection strategies we recommend for concrete slab homes is a chemical reticulation system. This system involves installing irrigation-style pipes around the home’s perimeter, which can later be filled with non-repellent chemicals. These chemicals treat the soil around the home, stopping termites before they get inside.
Paint-On Barriers. We use special paint products that seal construction joins, slab cutouts, and other slab vulnerabilities. These paint systems double as waterproofing and termite protection, especially when applied to block-work retaining walls.
Termite Baiting Systems. In situations where a more passive yet equally effective approach is needed, we can install termite baiting stations around the property. These stations are designed to lure termites and ultimately eliminate their colonies. Baits can be incorporated into the ground or even placed in concrete paving with inspection points for regular monitoring.

Subfloor Solutions

For homes built on a subfloor, termites termite entry points exist through stumps, piers, and any part of the subfloor that comes into contact with the ground. At Penpest, we approach subfloor termite protection with two key strategies, depending on the height of the subfloor.

Subfloors with Greater than 400mm Clearance

In subfloors with ample clearance, termites typically enter by traveling up stumps or through masonry foundations and piers. The space is easily accessed by an inspector and future inspections are possible.

Ant Caps for Timber Stumps. We install ant caps on timber stumps, which prevent termites from entering the structure undetected through cracks in the stumps. While these caps won’t stop termites from crawling over them, they force the termites to move into visible areas, where they can be detected during inspections.
Concrete Stumps. Since termites are unlikely to bore through concrete stumps, ant caps are generally not required here. However, other measures, such as a chemical treatment to the stumps, can be used to prevent termite entry.
Perimeter Spraying. To ensure full protection, we apply a chemical spray along the perimeter of the subfloor and on any external structures near ground level. This treatment creates a chemical barrier that repels or kills termites before they can reach the home.
Masonry Foundations. If masonry piers or other masonry structures are used in the subfloor, termite sheeting can be integrated through the brickwork so that it is visible externally and from in the subfloor. This must be integrated in the brickwork that is below the subfloor timbers. Alternatively, an internal and external perimeter spray can be done to protect these areas.

Subfloors with Less than 400mm Clearance

In low-clearance subfloors, two main factors influence the termite management solutions. Firstly, the area is no longer considered accessible and therefore any solutions requiring visual inspections is no longer feasible. Secondly, termites are now able to bridge the air-gap between the ground and subfloor timbers.

Complete Subfloor Treatment. In cases where the subfloor clearance is less than 400mm, termites may travel directly from the soil to the home’s structure. To prevent this, we recommend treating the entire subfloor with a chemical spray.
Concrete Stumps. Since termites are unlikely to bore through concrete stumps, ant caps are generally not required here. However, other measures, such as a chemical treatment to the stumps, can be used to prevent termite entry.
Reticulation Systems. In very tight subfloor spaces where future access may be difficult, we install a reticulation system. This allows for chemical re-application without needing to disturb the subfloor, ensuring long-term termite protection.

Baiting Systems: A Versatile Solution

Baiting systems are becoming increasingly popular as an effective way to not only protect homes but to eliminate termite colonies entirely. Currently, only one baiting system is certified for pre-construction use in compliance with AS3660.1.

In-Ground Bait Stations. These stations are placed every 3 meters around the perimeter of the home. The bait is attractive to termites and, once they consume it, the colony begins to die off. This method can be particularly useful in areas where traditional barriers are not feasible or when the building owner prefers a chemical-free solution.
Monitoring and Maintenance. One important aspect of using baiting systems is ongoing maintenance. Stations need to be inspected every six months, and if termites are present, more frequent inspections and bait replacements will be required. While baiting systems have a higher initial cost, they offer peace of mind and can effectively eliminate nearby termite nests.

Conclusion

At Penpest, we understand that every new build is unique, and that’s why we offer a range of termite management solutions tailored to the specific needs of the site. From pre-pour concrete slab solutions to advanced baiting systems, we’re committed to providing long-lasting protection for new homes. Our methods are designed to meet AS3660.1 standards, ensuring your home is compliant and adequately protected for years to come.

If you’re embarking on a new build or you're a builder looking to partner with a local, reputable pest control company, get in touch with us today!