A Comprehensive Guide on Termite Infestation and Treatment in Singapore

Did you know termites evolved from cockroaches? This fascinating discovery, shared by NUS professors, dates back 170 million years. These tiny insects are capable of digesting cellulose – the organic compound found in wood and plant cell walls – a characteristic that has contributed to their survival and spread. In Singapore, termite infestation has become a serious issue, with reports from the BCA indicating that termites can cause up to 15% structural damage to buildings!

This guide will explore the early signs of termite infestation, preventive measures, and expert termite control solutions in Singapore.

Common Termite Species in Singapore and Their Impact

Termites, often referred to as ‘white ants,’ feed primarily on cellulose-based materials like wood. The warm and humid climate of Singapore provides an ideal environment for these pests to thrive. In Singapore, there are three main types of termites:

1. Drywood Termites: These termites live in dry wood and do not require contact with soil.

2. Subterranean Termites: These termites nest underground and travel to food sources using mud tubes.

3. Dampwood Termites: These termites thrive in damp, decaying wood, such as fallen trees and logs.

Recent studies show that 70% of termite infestations in Singapore are caused by subterranean termites.

Early Signs of Termite Infestation in Singapore

1. Mud Tubes: Subterranean termites build mud tubes for shelter as they travel between their nests and food sources. These tubes, typically the size of a pencil, can be found on wooden structures or concrete foundations.

• Working Tubes: Connecting the nest in soil to wood.

• Drop Tubes: Connecting wood back to the soil.

• Exploratory Tubes: Extending from soil without connecting to wood.

Wood Tunnels: Also known as galleries, these tunnels are hidden within wood and can be detected when the infested wood is broken open. High-tech devices are used by pest experts to detect these tunnels, even without visible signs.

Discarded Wings: Swarmers or alates (flying termites) shed their wings after mating or establishing new colonies. Finding wings on windowsills or floors is a strong indicator of infestation.

Frass (Termite Droppings): Frass are tiny, six-sided pellets resembling sawdust. These droppings are commonly found around entry points to termite nests. Spotting frass should prompt immediate action.

Tight-Fitting Doors and Windows: Termite activity can cause timber to swell, making it difficult to open or close doors and windows.

Discolouration and Crumbling Wood: A change in color (black or brown) and the crumbling of wood are clear signs of termite damage.

Preventive Termite Treatment Measures

1. Termite-Proof Your Foundation: Use concrete instead of wood in your home's foundation. If wood is unavoidable, apply a sealant to prevent termite infestation.

2. Seal Leaks: Termites are attracted to moisture, so fix any leaks and cracks that may invite these pests.

3. Pre-Treat Wood: Apply borate or eco-friendly termiticides to wooden structures before painting or priming.

4. Store Materials Properly: Keep cardboard boxes and woodpiles away from your home to reduce the risk of attracting termites.

5. Schedule Regular Inspections: Prevention is the best approach. Have your property inspected at least once a year by professional exterminators.

Expert Termite Treatment Techniques in Singapore

1. Thermal Imaging: This high-tech method helps detect temperature variations in infested areas, indicating termite presence. Thermal imaging is effective in areas like false ceilings, door frames, and wooden skirtings.

2. Termite Baiting: Bait stations containing cellulose attract termites. The bait contains insect growth regulators (IGRs) that disrupt the termite’s moulting process, ultimately eliminating the colony over 3-6 months.

3. Soil Drenching: This method targets subterranean termites by applying termicides into the soil around trees or plants, killing the colonies underground.

4. Foam Insecticide Treatment: For drywood termite infestations, foam insecticides are injected into infested areas such as wood cracks or wall openings. The foam penetrates deeply and eliminates termites on contact.

5. Dusting: A cost-effective, conventional method involves puffing insecticidal dust into mud tubes. Worker termites carry the dust back to their colony, gradually eliminating the entire nest.

Conclusion

Detecting termite infestation early can save your property from significant structural damage. By implementing preventive measures, you can reduce the likelihood of infestation. However, if you suspect an infestation, it is crucial to seek professional help. ORIGIN Exterminators specialize in comprehensive termite control and treatment services, providing effective solutions to protect your property.

For termite inspections or treatments, contact ORIGIN Exterminators at +65 6280 5666 or via WhatsApp at +65 90077134. Let us help you safeguard your home from termites.