If you are worried about termites, that’s normal. Especially if you live in an area where infestations are common. For this reason, you’ll want to have an inspection done.

How often should you have a termite inspection done? We’ll answer that question briefly. Termites are small, but can do a tremendous amount of damage.

That’s what happens when they operate in large numbers as a colony. You want to get rid of them as fast as you can to ensure that your home is protected from the inside and out. The sooner you prevent any kind of termite infestation, the better.

Is it worth it to get an inspection done in a high termite pressure environment. Yes. It’s something that can be done annually. Let’s continue talking about termites and why an annual inspection is worth it.

The answer is every 12 months (with these conditions)

As mentioned, you want a termite inspection done every 12 months. However, it should be done under the following conditions:

• If you live in an older home

Older homes will be built from wood. This can be a primary target for termites. So it would be smart for you to get an annual termite inspection to ensure none of them have done damage to your home.

• The climate is right

Termites live in warm, humid areas of Australia. That’s where they are most active. If you live in Queensland, you’re in a place where termites will likely be present. Even in the summertime, termites will be very active.

• You got the cash

Termite inspections will be something that will cost you somewhere between $50 to $250. That will depend on various factors. Setting aside an amount of money every year will ensure that you are prepared for the annual inspection. It might help to set aside a little bit of extra cash in case you need professional services.

Be aware of your neighbour’s termite situation

Termites have the ability to travel 50 to 80 meters away from their nest. If your neighbours are dealing with termites, it might be a matter of time until your home becomes a target. Termites can move fast and do damage fast.

This is your chance to take the necessary precautions to ensure the termites affecting your neighbours don’t attack you next. An inspection will be the perfect course of action to take to ensure that it’s not too late.

The sooner you get your home inspected, the quicker you will be able to get answers regarding whether your home is safe or not. If you are dealing with a problem, that’s when a pest control professional will be able to give you the next set of options on what needs to be done.

Termite activity: When are they most active?

One of the best times of the year for termites to be active is during the summer months. As the temperatures and humidity levels increase, so do the presence of various pests including termites. With that in mind, you’ll want to do the following precautions:

• Check for water leaks and seal them

One of the best points of entry for termites are water pipes. All they need to do is find a place where a leak is coming from and they’re in. Check under your kitchen and bathroom sinks for any leaks and seal them as soon as possible.

• Increase the ventilation throughout your house

A well-ventilated home is something termites don’t like. But don’t overdo it to a point where it gives termites an entry point. Basements with windows will benefit greatly since they provide you with excellent subfloor ventilation.

• Removing and replacing attractive materials

Any wooden materials learning up against your home or near it should be relocated to a different location. Find designated storage areas in your home where you can be able to relocate these items so they are less likely to get damaged by termites

These are precautions that you should take aside from scheduling an inspection for termites. It’s no secret that termites will find an opportunity to get inside your home and destroy it. If you notice any door frames or floors bowing or blistering, it may already be too late.

Conclusion

If you are concerned about termites, there’s a good chance you live in a high pressure region. For this reason, getting an annual termite inspection will be necessary. No time is better than now to schedule one.

The sooner you get started, the more likely your home will be protected. Acting when it’s too little, too late can be costly. A professional inspector will find many signs of termite infestation.

Plus, they’ll give you a battle plan on what you’ll want to do to prevent an infestation in the future. When you work with a termite inspector, you’ll have options depending on your situation like an infestation or no termites present.

Which is better? Custom or DIY Carports

Some people might choose to DIY their carport, while others may choose to have a custom carport built. Both options have pros and cons, so taking the time to weigh your choices before making a decision is essential. If you’re on the fence about whether or not to DIY or go custom, read on for more information about each option.

Custom Carport Pros and Cons

A custom-built carport is a specially designed and manufactured carport. It is usually made to order from a wide range of custom designs according to the customer’s specifications. Custom carports can be made from various materials, including aluminum, steel, wood, or polycarbonate. They can be freestanding or attached to a building.

Pros

• It provides added protection for your car from the weather.
• It gives added value to your home.
• It can be built to match the style of your home and has a huge range of available designs.
• It may provide some shelter from the elements in bad weather.
• It can be a storage area for yard equipment, bikes, and more.
• It adds insulation in the winter and shade in the summer.

Cons

• They tend to be more expensive than other types of carports.
• It can take longer to install one since it’s not as off-the-shelf as some alternatives.
• If something goes wrong, finding someone who can fix it may be challenging since it’s not an everyday item.

DIY Carport Pros and Cons

A “do-it-yourself carport” is a structure you can build yourself, typically using carport kits or pre-fabricated parts. It can be single carport kits or double carports for extra space. Make sure you measure the space carefully and choose suitable materials to make your carport sturdy and stylish.

Pros

• You can choose the size and style best suits your needs and wants to make sure it has ample storage space for your car and other stuff.
• It’s usually much cheaper than hiring a professional to do it for you.
• You can customize it to fit your specific property and landscape.
• It’s an excellent project for DIYers who want to learn more about carpentry and construction.
• You have complete control over the outcome, which means you can be sure it meets all your requirements and standards.

Cons

• Getting the measurements and angles right can be challenging without professional help, which increases the chances of your carport deteriorating or collapsing over time.
• If you make a mistake in the construction process, it can be very costly and time-consuming to fix, especially if the damage is done to your car.
• A poorly constructed carport may not be able to withstand bad weather conditions or heavy loads, putting both your vehicle and property at risk.
• You will need access to all the necessary tools and materials and plenty of space to work, which may not be feasible if you live in an urban area.

Factors to consider in choosing a type of carport

The reason for building a carport.

The most important thing is the reason why you want to build a carport in the first place. A custom carport may be the best option, as it can be explicitly designed to meet your needs. On the other hand, DIY carports may not provide the same level of protection as a custom carport.

The Value of Your Vehicle.

If your vehicle’s value exceeds the cost of a custom carport, then you should have a custom carport built. A custom carport will protect your vehicle from the elements and could add value to your home should you ever decide to sell.

The number of resources.

DIYing your carport may be your best option if you have a limited budget. However, if you are not confident in your ability to build a sturdy and durable carport, then hiring a professional to do custom work may be worth the extra cost.

Location and weather conditions.

Location and weather conditions are essential when deciding whether to DIY or build a custom carport. If you live in an area with severe weather conditions, having a carport that can withstand high winds and heavy rain is crucial. A custom carport builder can help you choose the right design and materials for your climate, ensuring your carport is beautiful and durable.

Your length of stay.

If you’re only going to be in the area for a year or two, it might make more sense to go with a DIY carport. On the other hand, investing in a custom carport might make more sense if you stay in the area for a while. This is because a custom carport will be built to fit your specific needs and will last much longer than a DIY carport.

FAQS

Does building a carport need a council permit?

Yes, building a carport generally requires council approval and a permit, regardless of whether it’s a gable carport or a wooden carport. The process and requirements vary depending on your local council, but in most cases, you must submit a development application (DA) for approval.

In Brisbane, the Brisbane City Council website advises that carports attached to houses require planning approval and building regulation approval via a DA. However, if the carport is detached from the house, regulation approval is required via a building application lodged with the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC).

How do you choose materials?

When choosing materials for a carport, you’ll need to consider the climate in which you live. If you live in a cold environment, you’ll need to choose durable materials that can withstand cold weather. If you live in a warm climate, you’ll need to select materials resistant to the sun and rain.

You’ll also need to consider the weight of the materials. Some materials are heavier than others, so you’ll need to ensure that your carport can support the weight of the materials. You’ll also need to consider the cost of the materials. Again, some materials are more expensive than others.

Finally, you’ll need to consider the appearance of the materials. Some materials look better than others.

When are carports not allowed?

There are a few instances when carports are not allowed in Australia. One example is when the carport is located within 1 metre of a boundary fence line. Additionally, carports must not be situated to interfere with any easements on the property or negate the required setback distances from the street or footpath. Lastly, class 1 & 2 heritage buildings generally cannot have carports as they front onto the road and mar the building’s heritage significance.

How many carports can you have?

In Brisbane, the maximum number of carports you can have on your property is one. This is specified in the Brisbane City Council Planning Scheme and is based on the available parking on the property. To install a carport, you must apply for development approval from the council.

Conclusion

Concerning carports, there are two main options: custom or DIY. Both have pros and cons, so deciding which option is the best option for you can be challenging. We’ve outlined the pros and cons of each type of carport to help make your decision a little easier. If you still have questions after reading this article, contact us for more information. We want to ensure you get the perfect carport for your needs!

Tips On Choosing A Reliable Pest Control Company

Unfortunately, dealing with pests is an unavoidable part of owning a home. Luckily, there are many ways to control various pest infestations. In many cases, homeowners can take proactive measures to prevent pest infestations. If an infestation is getting out of hand, however, you likely need to resort to professional pest control. 

When it comes to finding the best pest controller for your home, many people aren’t sure where to start. Here are the top tips for choosing the best pest controller for your specific situation. 

Do your research

Homeowners should conduct a thorough research when looking for a reliable pest controller. Pest control is one of the issues that must be handled correctly the first time. If it is not done right, the infestation will persist. You will need to hire another company to resolve the issue. Needless to say, this can be both frustrating and costly. Thus, you should only hire a pest control company if you are confident in their competence and trustworthiness. If you live in Australia, visit https://aepma.com.au/pages/ManagerSearch.aspx your nearest AEPMA member.

When researching a pest control company, here are some things to pay attention to. 

Are they affiliated with a professional pest control association?

These associations exist at the national, state, and local levels, and they help regulate pest control methods. They also require members to adhere to a code of ethics. It can give homeowners some peace of mind that their service will be professional and honorable. 

Does the company offer a guarantee for their work?

Companies that provide special services (like pest control) should always offer a guarantee for their work. Do your research to learn about whether the companies you’re considering offer guarantees. If so, what you need to do to ensure the guarantee stays valid. 

Does the company have liability insurance? 

With pest control a lot can go wrong, either due to accident or negligence. It’s crucial that the company you choose for pest control have liability insurance so that you and your home will be protected from damages. 

To learn if the company has appropriate insurance, you can ask a salesperson or point of contact. This is a perfectly fair question to ask as a potential customer. You should ask to see proof on paper that the company actually has the insurance they say they do. 

Are they licensed?

Many states offer pest control licenses, and you should only consider hiring a company with a valid pest control license. You can find out if the company’s license is current by contacting the pesticide regulatory agency for your state. 

Ask questions

Once you’ve found a few pest control companies that you think might be good options for your pest problem, the next thing to do is ask them plenty of informative questions. Here are some questions you should ask:

Can you provide a list of references? 

Pest control is a big operation, and you need to be sure that the company you choose is reliable. Contacting previous customers (with their consent) is a great way to find out what you can expect or if you should go in a different direction. 

How many years has your company been in business at the present address?

This may seem like a very specific question, but it’s an important one to ask. You can use this information to contact official offices like the State Department of Agriculture, the Better Business Bureau, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the State Attorney General’s Office to ask if the company has received any complaints about misusing pesticides or its employees. 

Is the person conducting the pest control application licensed?

The law states that each pest control company needs to have a minimum of one licensed commercial pesticide applicator in each service category. All other applicators need to either be certified themselves or under the direct supervision of someone who is. Asking this question lets the company know that you’re aware of this rule, and that you expect compliance with the treatment of your property. Just be sure to follow up when the application day arrives.

Can I see copies of all the pesticide labels and the rates at which you will apply them?

Given that many pesticides are toxic, you need to know what, where, and how much is being sprayed in and around your home. 

Final Thoughts

When choosing a pest control company for your home, it’s very important that you do thorough research and ask a lot of questions. Pesticides can be dangerous. Hence, it needs to be applied with precision and professionalism. You can do your part in guaranteeing safe pesticide application at your home by reading up on potential companies and asking a lot of questions before application.   

Introduction

Natural pest control methods is one of the safest ways to control pests. Not only are they eco-friendly, but also don’t cause any harm to you, your loved ones, or the other useful organisms around you.

Biological methods to control pests

Using biological methods is one of the best ways to control the spread of pests naturally without involving the use of chemicals that could harm the environment.

Pest Control Experts of Pro Pest Control Sydney offer free natural pest control methods advice, if need contact with their support team today.

When such methods are used, the breeding mechanism of the pests are naturally interfered with and natural enemies of the pests are used so that they do not get out of control.

Some of the biological methods that are commonly used are:

• In the water bodies, the mosquito larvae are greatly minimized by placing Australian native fish out there which feed on them.
• The flies breed on cow dung and this problem is avoided by using dung beetle, that breaks down the cowling so that the flies don’t get to it.
• A larvicide, known as BTI, is used with the help of a toxic bacteria. When this bacteria is consumed by the mosquito bacteria, it kills them, but it does not work on mosquito pupae.

Controlling pests with the help of hygiene

By keeping your surroundings clean, the chances of pests to thrive are minimized as there is nothing easily available for them to sustain themselves.

The following practices can help control pests to a great extent:

• Cleaning household appliances like microwave, ovens, refrigerators regularly.
• Storing food in air tight lids where the pests cannot get inside.
• Cleaning up immediately after meals. So the tables are cleaned, the food bits are wiped off and thrown away and the dishes are washed, cleaned and dried.
• Disposing off the garbage in the right way.
• Placing all the scrap food in a paper, tightly wrapping it up and then disposing it.
• All the tanks and drains are properly covered and sealed.
• The bathrooms must be kept as clean as possible with all the different cistern mechanisms working flawlessly.
• Stop the pests from entering your house by using flyscreens and seal the holes around the pipes.
• Proper disposal of urine and faeces is very important as pests thrive on such waste products.

Hygiene plays a very important role in controlling pests naturally. Even if you get the house or any other area treated with a pesticide program, it won’t be of much help as they will return if the surroundings are not kept clean.

Some more natural pest control methods:

• Make chamomile tea and allow it to simmer for 10 minutes. Then place it in a spray bottle. Spray it to get rid of brown spot, brown rot, leaf spot and mildew.
• Garden pests can be controlled on indoor plants by wiping them with a soapy cloth. The soapy water spray can also be used outdoors on the foliage and stems.
• Some insects can be gotten rid of by using eucalyptus or vegetable oil, soap or even a clay spray. Or white oil could also be used. It does not kill the useful insects and has a smaller residual life.

Conclusion

Using natural or organic pesticides is a good way of controlling the pests, but be wise and use it on a small area first as a test before using it on a larger scale.

Although less toxic, sometimes, these pesticides could cause harm to you. So always wear long sleeved outfits, gloves and a facemask while working with them. Store them in properly labelled bottles and keep them away from children.