Why Spiderman SE Doesn’t Do Under-Slab Sprays for Builders

The Problem with Under-Slab Sprays

Under-slab sprays were once a common solution for termite protection, involving the application of chemicals under the slab during construction. However, these chemicals break down over time, and once they do, they can’t be replenished. That means your termite barrier loses its effectiveness, leaving the building vulnerable to termite attack down the track.

The Building Code of Australia (BCA) now requires that chemical systems in concealed or hard-to-access areas must be replenishable, as per the 2014 revision of AS 3660.1. Under-slab sprays, by their nature, don’t allow for this replenishment without significant disruption to the structure.

The Sentricon AlwaysActive Solution

Instead of under-slab sprays, we use Sentricon AlwaysActive, a termite management system that delivers continuous, long-term protection without the need for disruptive and non-replenishable chemical treatments. Sentricon is a baiting system that is installed around the perimeter of a structure. It works by attracting termites to highly palatable bait in the ground stations, which they consume and spread throughout their colony. This disrupts their ability to moult, ultimately eliminating the entire colony, including the queen​.

Here’s why Sentricon is the smarter choice:

• Colony Elimination: Sentricon doesn’t just block termites; it wipes out the entire colony, preventing future infestations.
• Replenishable: Unlike under-slab sprays, Sentricon stations can be easily monitored, replenished, and adjusted over time.
• Non-Disruptive: It’s installed in-ground around the structure, so there’s no need to dig up slabs or disrupt construction.
• Environmentally Friendly: Sentricon has minimal impact on the environment. It doesn’t involve widespread chemical applications that can leach into the soil or water sources​.

Why We Don’t Offer Under-Slab Sprays

We’ve chosen not to offer under-slab sprays because they don’t meet our standards for long-term, reliable protection. These sprays degrade over time, and once they lose their potency, the building is left unprotected. More importantly, the chemicals can’t be replenished without invasive procedures that disrupt the building and its occupants.

With Sentricon AlwaysActive, we’re confident that we’re offering our clients the best possible protection. The system is proven to eliminate termite colonies and provides ongoing peace of mind through regular monitoring and maintenance.

What This Means for Builders

For builders, Sentricon AlwaysActive is a hassle-free solution that meets all National Construction Code (NCC) requirements. It’s compliant with AS 3660.1, is easy to install, and doesn’t require complicated scheduling or follow-up treatments during construction. Builders can proceed with construction knowing that they’ve provided their clients with a termite management system that works and is backed by over 70 independent studies proving its effectiveness.

References:

• HIA Information Sheet - Changes to Termite Management Options from 1 May 2017
• Sentricon AlwaysActive - Termite Management System for Construction
• Sentricon AlwaysActive - CodeMark Certificate of Conformity