How to treat outdoor termites in North Qld?

[Aga]

We discovered active termite issue on our bridge.  It's well removed from the house, but I understand their networks can be far-ranging so don't want to risk upsetting them...  Also, we hope to avoid replacing the whole timber of the bridge, which seems to be only affected on the surface so far.  Are there any products that we can use to control further damage?  Would a spray be sufficient or do you recommend baits? Does it depend on the species?  We're in North Qld and I attach a photo if that helps.

Thanks

[JacobZ · Accepted solution]

Hi @Aga,

Thank you for your question about outdoor termite treatments.

There are products such as Hovex Ultra Lo-Odour Termite Concentrate that can be applied to the timber, but this will not stop the full network of termites.

If you choose to use this product, please ensure you follow the instructions carefully and wear gloves, a mask, eye protection and protective clothing to avoid any harm to yourself.

Have you been able to visually find any termites? If so, you might be able to track them back to their nest where termite treatments would be most effective.

If you're particularly concerned about the network, I'd suggest contacting a pest control specialist as they will have the knowledge of termite behaviour to track and handle the termites to prevent further damage to your home. 

In terms of the bridge, is the damage particularly widespread? Is it possible to get some wider photos of the bridge?

It's hard to tell, but the termite damage looks to be fairly superficial. If you take a screwdriver and push it into the timber above where it has obviously been eaten away, is it soft?

If the damage is fairly extensive, it might be worth getting a carpenter to assess the damage and make their recommendations.

Let me know if you have any further questions.

Jacob