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Which termite protection is better — physical or chemical?

Both meet Australian Standards when correctly installed. Physical barriers last longer and don't require retreatment. Chemical barriers are effective but need retreatment every 5–10 years. Many experts recommend combining both for maximum protection.

Is termite protection included in a builder's base price?

Sometimes. Many builders include a chemical barrier as standard. Physical barriers (Termimesh, Granitgard) may be included by some builders or offered as an upgrade. Always confirm what's included in your contract.

How much does physical termite protection cost?

Typically $3,000–$6,000 for a standard home. This is more expensive upfront than chemical treatments but has lower ongoing costs as it doesn't require retreatment.

Do I need termite protection with a steel frame?

Steel frames are not susceptible to termites. However, other timber elements in your home (flooring, roofing, cladding) can still be attacked. A termite management system is still recommended even with steel frames.

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Frame & Structure

Physical vs Chemical Termite Protection

The two main approaches to termite management in new Australian homes — compared on cost, longevity, and what builders include as standard.

5 min·Compare My Build — Independent Resource· Updated June 2025

Introduction

In Australia's harsh climate, termite protection is not optional — it's a Building Code requirement. There are two main approaches: physical barriers that create a mechanical obstacle termites can't penetrate, and chemical barriers that use pesticides to deter or kill termites. Understanding the difference matters because the cost, longevity and ongoing maintenance requirements are very different.

Key Differences

Feature	Physical Barrier	Chemical Barrier
Method	Mechanical mesh or aggregate at slab edge/penetrations	Pesticide applied to soil around slab
Products	Termimesh, Granitgard, Kordon	Termidor, Altis, Biflex
Lifespan	25–50+ years (lifetime of home)	5–10 years before retreatment
Retreatment required	No	Every 5–10 years ($1,500–$3,000)
Upfront cost	$3,000 – $6,000	$1,500 – $3,500
10-year total cost	$3,000 – $6,000	$4,500 – $12,000+
Standard inclusion	Some builders only	Most volume builders

Pros and Cons

Pros

+ Physical barriers provide long-term protection without retreatment
+ Chemical barriers are less expensive upfront and widely included
+ Physical barriers are environmentally preferable — no ongoing chemical use
+ Both meet Australian Building Code requirements

Cons

− Physical barriers cost more upfront
− Chemical barriers require regular retreatment — an ongoing cost
− Chemical barriers can degrade in wet or sandy soils
− Not all builders include physical barriers — often an upgrade

Cost Comparison

Chemical barrier (standard inclusion)$1,500 – $3,500

Physical barrier (Termimesh etc.)$3,000 – $6,000

Physical barrier upgrade above chemical$1,500 – $3,000 extra

Chemical retreatment (every 5–10 years)$1,500 – $3,000 each

Over the life of a home, physical barriers are typically more cost-effective despite higher upfront costs.

Common Builder Inclusions

›Chemical termite treatment (Termidor or equivalent) is standard with most volume builders
›Physical termite barriers (Termimesh) are offered as an upgrade by some builders
›A small number of premium builders include physical barriers as standard
›Always confirm what type of termite protection is included in your contract

Common Trap

Many buyers don't realise their chemical termite treatment needs to be renewed every 5–10 years. Missed retreatments can void warranties and leave the home unprotected. Factor retreatment costs into your long-term ownership budget.