Many problems that arise within the area of pest control are generally moisture related or are dependent on higher than normal moisture levels. Wood decay, termites and even certain cockroach species are favoured by abnormal moisture levels.

There are many contributing factors leading to abnormal moisture levels in the sub-floor area, such as plumbing leaks e.g. leaking showers, broken pipes, and inadequate drainage.

Typically water from the soil, mainly in the sub floor areas, evaporates and condenses on the cooler surfaces of the floor. Condensation is increased by poor sub floor ventilation and if this condition continues flooring timbers gain in moisture therefore increasing the risk of wood decay rot and a build up of fungi and mould growth.

Correct sub-floor ventilation helps reduce these factors and helps improve the overall health of your home. Many homes suffer from inadequate sub floor ventilation, but are unaware that they have a problem, often a building inspection or pest inspection of a property notifies you of these situations.

It is important to note that even though your home may be elevated off the ground this does not mean that you have adequate sub-floor ventilation as your home still needs air circulating underneath it to keep the environment dry.

Typical signs of inadequate ventilation,

• Vegetation impinging on the outer walls and the build up of soil and landscaping materials around the walls, often obstructing the function of the ventilators are factors which may indicate poor ventilation and possible decay problems in the sub floor area.
• Upon entering a building a musty odour may also betray a sub floor or wall moisture problem.
• Mould and fungi build up on the walls.
• Floor boards which have distortion such as cupping and splitting
• Concrete paths or patio flooring have been laid that are blocking the vents.
• No cross flow which means the internal foundation walls do not allow ventilators to line up allowing air in and air out.

Installing brass wire passive ventilators or fan forced ventilators will assist in creating cross flow, aid in the removal of musty smells, reduce fungi growth and mould in the sub floor area. Keeping the sub-floor area ventilated can also help reduce the risk of termite attack. The great advantage of these vents is there is minimal running costs and maintenance required.

Forensic Pest Management Services main concern is to,

• Reduce the dampness in the sub floor.
• Ventilate fresh air into the sub floor area.
• Provide circulation within the sub floor area reducing fungal decay to the timbers.

With our expertise Forensic Pest Management Services we will provide a personalized solution to your unique situation. Once we come to site we will assess your unique situation eg the type of building and its location, this is extremely important as we do integrate our environments natural forces into our successful ventilation systems and from here we will professionally create the most efficient and effective ventilation solution to your sub-floor problem.

The advantages of adequate sub floor ventilation:

• Minimizes fungal growth, mould growth, musty smells and wood rot.
• Provides a ventilated sub-floor helping to reduce the risk of termite attack.
• Promotes a healthy living environment for your family.