Buying a new home in Perth is a huge milestone, but along with the excitement of owning your dream property comes the responsibility of maintenance and protection — especially from hidden threats like white ants. Also known as termites, these tiny pests can cause extensive structural damage if left undetected. For many Perth homeowners, one of the first steps in safeguarding their property is implementing an effective ants pest control strategy focused on prevention.
White ants thrive in Western Australia’s warm climate and sandy soils, making local homes particularly vulnerable. As a new homeowner, it’s essential to stay one step ahead of these destructive insects. Below are some expert-approved prevention tips that can save you thousands of dollars in potential repairs.
Understand the Threat of White Ants
White ants are not just a nuisance — they are silent destroyers. Unlike other pests, they don’t bite or sting, and they often remain unnoticed until the damage is severe. They feed on cellulose-rich materials, such as timber, paper, and even some fabrics. Because Perth homes often include timber framing, flooring, and cabinetry, they’re an ideal target.
A major challenge in white ant prevention is early detection. They typically move underground or through wall cavities, making them hard to spot without a professional inspection.
Start with a Professional White Ant Inspection
Before settling into your new home, arrange for a thorough white ant inspection by a licensed technician. This is particularly crucial if the property hasn’t had an inspection in the last 12 months. An inspection will reveal any existing infestations and highlight areas that may be vulnerable in the future.
During the inspection, professionals check:
- The subfloor and foundation
- Roof voids and attic areas
- Garden beds, fences, and retaining walls
- Moisture-prone areas like bathrooms and kitchens
If signs of white ants are found, appropriate treatments can be applied immediately.
Minimise Moisture Around the Home
White ants are drawn to moist environments. Moisture softens timber and helps create ideal nesting conditions. As a new homeowner, it’s vital to control dampness both inside and around your property.
Here’s how:
- Ensure gutters and downpipes are clear and draining correctly.
- Fix leaking taps, toilets, or pipes without delay.
- Avoid overwatering garden beds, especially those adjacent to the home’s foundation.
- Install proper ventilation in bathrooms and subfloors.
By reducing moisture levels, you make your home far less attractive to termites.
Avoid Storing Timber Near Your House
Whether it’s firewood, old pallets, or leftover construction materials, avoid keeping timber near the base of your home. White ants can easily migrate from these food sources into your walls or floors.
Keep these items:
- Off the ground (preferably on racks)
- Well away from the perimeter of your house
- Covered and dry, to avoid attracting pests
This simple step is often overlooked but is highly effective in discouraging infestations.
Inspect Garden Beds and Landscaping Features
Landscaping adds to your home’s beauty, but it can also bring white ants closer to your property. Raised garden beds, timber retaining walls, and tree stumps are all common hiding spots.
When landscaping:
- Use termite-resistant timber or treated pine for garden features.
- Avoid piling mulch or soil too high against the house.
- Keep vegetation trimmed back from external walls.
If you’re planning new landscaping projects, consider consulting a white ant specialist before you begin.
Seal Entry Points
Gaps and cracks in your home’s foundation, walls, or roofing can provide access for white ants. As part of your home maintenance routine, conduct regular visual checks around the perimeter and seal any visible entry points.
Use appropriate sealants or materials to block:
- Cracks in the concrete slab
- Gaps in roof flashing
- Openings around utility pipes and cables
A well-sealed home is more energy-efficient and better protected against pests.
Install a White Ant Barrier System
For long-term protection, consider investing in a white ant barrier system. There are two main types:
a) Physical Barriers
Usually installed during construction, these barriers are made from stainless steel mesh or crushed rock that termites can’t penetrate.
b) Chemical Barriers
These involve applying a liquid treatment around the foundation to deter or kill white ants. Many modern options are environmentally friendly and provide protection for up to 8 years.
Barrier systems should only be installed by qualified professionals and checked regularly for effectiveness.
Regular Follow-Up Inspections
Prevention isn’t a one-off task. Even after your initial inspection and treatments, it’s important to continue monitoring for white ant activity. A yearly inspection schedule is recommended for Perth homes.
This ensures:
- Any new threats are identified early
- Barriers or treatments are still effective
- Your property remains fully protected
Regular inspections are often a requirement for warranty coverage if you’ve had a termite treatment installed.
Educate Yourself About Ant Species
Not all ants in your home are white ants, but understanding the differences helps with better control. For example:
- Black ants or coastal brown ants are more common and less destructive but can indicate moisture issues.
- White ants (termites) are more discreet and often cause damage before they’re seen.
If you’re unsure, contact a pest professional to identify and manage the issue effectively. Accurate identification is key to effective treatment.
Partner with a Local Pest Control Expert
As a new homeowner, it’s wise to develop an ongoing relationship with a trusted pest control provider. They’ll get to know your property and offer advice tailored to your environment.
Professional teams with local knowledge, like Ant Pest Control Perth, understand how white ants behave in Perth’s unique climate and soil conditions. Their expertise makes a significant difference in prevention and control.
White ant prevention is one of the most important tasks you’ll take on as a homeowner in Perth. With the right knowledge and support, you can protect your investment and avoid costly surprises. From inspections to barrier systems and practical home maintenance, every action you take adds a layer of defence against these destructive pests.
If you’re ready to secure your new home from white ants, call Ants Pest Control Perth today on 08 6244 4282 for expert guidance and affordable prevention solutions.