Is Your Termite Barrier Hiding a Problem?

Termites can cause major damage to a property, and a physical barrier is a great way to protect your home. But what if that barrier is no longer providing the protection you think it is? Many people don’t realise that when a termite barrier is covered by cladding or other building materials, it can create a serious hidden problem. This article explains how this happens, why it’s so dangerous, and what you can do about it.

Key Points

✓ A physical termite barrier like a Kordon system is designed to force termites into the open, where their activity is easily detected.
✓ Covering this barrier with cladding or other materials creates a hidden entry point for termites, allowing them to bypass your protection.
✓ This can lead to a silent infestation that goes unnoticed for months or even years.
✓ A standard visual inspection may not be enough to find a concealed entry point.
✓ Regular professional inspections with specialised equipment are crucial for properties with concealed barriers.

The Hidden Threat of Concealed Termite Entry

A physical termite barrier is designed to stop termites from entering your home through the ground. It works by forcing them out into the open, where a pest control technician can easily spot their tell-tale mud leads during a routine inspection. The entire point of the barrier is that it’s visible.
However, a popular modern building trend is to install decorative cladding over the exterior of a home, which can sometimes completely cover the termite barrier. While this might look great, it essentially creates a termite superhighway. The termites can travel up the inside of the cladding, completely bypassing the barrier and entering your home’s timber framing undetected.
Why This is a Big Problem
When termites are able to enter your home secretly, it becomes a race against time. The visible signs of a termite infestation – the mud tunnels, damaged timber, or discarded wings… are completely hidden by the cladding. This means a colony can be silently munching away at the structural integrity of your house for months or even years before you notice any signs of damage. By that time, the repair costs can be significant.

Frequently Asked Questions
What are the signs of a sneaky termite problem?
Unfortunately, with a hidden entry, the usual signs might not be visible. However, you can still look for subtle clues. Keep an eye out for bubbling or warped paint, tiny holes in drywall, or a hollow sound when you tap on your skirting boards or walls. In some cases, you might even hear a faint rustling sound from inside your walls—a serious sign of trouble for any homeowner on the Gold Coast.
Can a regular pest inspection detect this?
A standard visual inspection might not be enough to find a concealed entry point. A professional pest technician will need to use specialised equipment like a thermal imaging camera to detect changes in temperature inside your walls that could point to termite activity. This is particularly important for newer homes from Coomera down to Tweed, where this building style is very common.
How can I stop this from happening?
The best way to prevent a concealed entry is to be proactive. If you are building a new home or renovating, make sure your builder understands the importance of keeping the termite barrier exposed. If your home already has covered barriers, it’s crucial to schedule a professional termite inspection at least once a year to protect your investment in the Gold Coast property market.

Summary: Your Termite Checklist
✓ Know Your Building Materials: Be aware of where physical termite barriers are located and if they’ve been covered by cladding.
✓ Schedule Regular Inspections: Don’t rely on a hidden barrier. A professional inspection is a must.
✓ Find a Professional: A qualified pest control technician knows exactly what to look for and where to check for concealed entry points.
✓ Act Now: If you have concerns, don’t wait. A professional inspection is the best way to ensure your home is protected.
Contact Us
Don’t let a hidden termite problem catch you by surprise. If your home’s termite barrier is covered by cladding, or you have any concerns about potential termite activity, schedule a professional inspection today.
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