Breaking the Cycle of Termite Damage: A Cheltenham Timber Pest Inspection Success Story
When it comes to protecting your home, few threats are as silent and destructive as termites. Recently, our team at Pest Control Empire was called to a residential property in Cheltenham, Melbourne, for a routine timber pest inspection. What we found was a stark reminder of just how devastating termites can be when left unchecked.
Our inspection identified active termites within the subfloor and internal timber floors of the home. The culprit was Coptotermes acinaciformis, one of the most destructive termite species in Australia. This case highlights not only the risk these pests pose but also the importance of early detection and effective treatment.
The Discovery: Termites Hidden in Plain Sight
The homeowner had noticed a few unusual signs – soft timber underfoot and some bubbling in the paintwork – but thought little of it. During our inspection, we uncovered live termite activity in the subfloor timbers and spreading into the flooring inside the home.
The most concerning part of this finding is that Coptotermes acinaciformis termites consume timber from the inside out. To the untrained eye, a floorboard may look intact, but inside it can be nothing more than a hollow shell.
Without treatment, termites like these can compromise the structural integrity of a home within months. By the time visible signs appear, extensive and costly damage has often already occurred.
Meet the Enemy: Coptotermes acinaciformis
Coptotermes acinaciformis is one of the most common and destructive termite species in Australia. Some key facts:
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They build large underground colonies that can house over a million termites.
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They forage widely and aggressively, often travelling up to 50 metres from their nest in search of food.
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They are responsible for an estimated 70% of serious termite damage in Australia.
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They can cause thousands of dollars in damage before a homeowner realises they’re even present.
This is why regular timber pest inspections are essential. Termites don’t announce their presence – they work silently, often for years, until a professional inspection reveals the damage.
The Treatment Plan: Two Steps to Total Elimination
Once active termites were identified, we presented the homeowner with a comprehensive treatment plan designed to eradicate the existing colony and provide long-term protection.
Step 1: Fipforce Dust Application
The first priority was dealing with the live infestation inside the home. We applied Fipforce Dust directly into the termite workings in the timber flooring.
Here’s how it works:
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The dust clings to the termites and is carried back to the nest.
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As termites groom, feed, and interact with each other, the active ingredient is transferred throughout the colony.
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The chemical disrupts their central nervous systems, leading to colony collapse.
Fipforce Dust is highly effective because it uses the termites’ natural behaviour against them. Instead of killing only the termites we can see, it ensures the treatment reaches deep into the colony.
Step 2: Termidor Liquid Chemical Treatment
Dusting alone is not enough. Termites can re-invade unless a protective barrier is in place. For this reason, the second stage of the treatment involved the application of Termidor – the gold standard in termite control.
Our Termidor treatment involved:
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Subfloor Application: We treated all accessible areas of the subfloor with Termidor, creating a treated zone. Any termites passing through would be eliminated or contaminated and spread the treatment further.
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External Perimeter Treatment: We trenched and injected Termidor into the soil surrounding the foundation of the home. This created a complete, non-repellent barrier.
Unlike older repellent chemicals, Termidor is undetectable to termites. They continue moving through treated zones without avoidance, which ensures maximum transfer through the colony. This Transfer Effect is why Termidor is trusted worldwide – it doesn’t just stop termites at the barrier, it helps wipe out the entire colony.
The Treatment in Action
With the plan approved, a team of three of our trained technicians attended the property. The treatment was carefully carried out to Australian Standards, ensuring thorough coverage of both the infestation and the property perimeter.
The dusting process was successful in targeting live activity, while the Termidor barrier gave the home long-term protection. This two-pronged approach is critical because it not only addresses the immediate problem but also prevents future infestations.
The Follow-Up: 30 Days Later
Termite treatments require patience and monitoring. About 30 days after the initial treatment, we re-attended the Cheltenham property to conduct a follow-up inspection.
The results were outstanding:
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No live termites were found.
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The once-active mud leads in the subfloor were broken open and inspected – they were completely clear of live activity.
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The homeowner could enjoy peace of mind knowing their property was now protected by one of the most advanced termite treatments available.
There’s a special satisfaction in cracking open a thick mud lead on a concrete stump and finding it empty – it’s the visible proof that the treatment has worked.
Why Early Action Matters
This case in Cheltenham is a perfect example of why early intervention is crucial when it comes to termites. Had the homeowner delayed, the infestation could have spread further into the structure, leading to far more expensive repairs.
Key lessons include:
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Regular Inspections Save Homes: Annual timber pest inspections are the best way to detect termites before major damage occurs.
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Don’t Ignore the Signs: Even small changes in timber – soft spots, bubbling paint, or mud tracks – should be investigated immediately.
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Trust Proven Treatments: DIY solutions and cheap alternatives are not effective against species like Coptotermes acinaciformis. Professional treatments with products like Fipforce Dust and Termidor are essential.
Protecting Homes in Cheltenham and Across Melbourne
At Pest Control Empire, we specialise in timber pest inspections, termite treatments, and long-term termite protection plans. Our experience with destructive species like Coptotermes acinaciformis means we know exactly what it takes to eliminate them and protect your home.
We service Cheltenham and surrounding suburbs in Melbourne’s bayside and south-eastern corridor. With many homes in the area featuring timber flooring, subfloors, and gardens with high moisture levels, it’s an environment where termites thrive.
Whether you’re a homeowner, property manager, or builder, investing in termite management is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your property’s value.
Final Thoughts
This Cheltenham case study shows both the threat termites pose and the effectiveness of professional treatment. By acting quickly, applying targeted treatments like Fipforce Dust and Termidor, and following up with inspections, we were able to protect a family home from one of Australia’s most destructive pests.
At Pest Control Empire, our mission is to provide peace of mind. We don’t just treat the problem you can see – we tackle the root cause, eliminate the colony, and put measures in place to protect your home for the future.
If you live in Cheltenham or anywhere across Melbourne and haven’t had a recent termite inspection, now is the time to act. Termites don’t wait, and neither should you.
Pest Control Empire – Your trusted local experts in termite inspection and treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have termites in my Cheltenham home?
Look for mud leads, hollow-sounding timber, blistering paint, or soft spots in flooring. A professional inspection is the only way to be certain.
Are Termidor barriers safe?
Yes. Termidor is a water-based, non-repellent product. When applied by a licensed pest manager, it is safe for families and pets.
How much does termite treatment cost in Melbourne?
Costs vary depending on the size of the property and the severity of infestation. For this Cheltenham case, treatment included both dusting and a full Termidor barrier.
Can termites return after treatment?
A correctly installed Termidor barrier provides protection for up to 8 years. With annual inspections, the chance of re-infestation is greatly reduced.
Protect Your Cheltenham Home Today
This Cheltenham case study demonstrates how quickly termites can take hold—and how effectively they can be eliminated with the right treatment plan. If you live in Cheltenham or surrounding Bayside suburbs, don’t wait until the damage is done.
📞 Call Pest Control Empire on 1300 66 55 73 or complete the Contact Us form to book your Cheltenham termite inspection today.
