In the context of commercial construction in Australia, an ant cap, also known as ant capping or termite shield, is a physical barrier designed to detect and deter termites from gaining entry to a building via concealed routes .
Description and Purpose
Ant caps are typically made of galvanized metal sheets or tin sheets and are placed on top of timber piers, along brick walls, and floor stumps . Their primary purpose is to force termites to emerge from concealed entry points, making them easier to detect . Ant caps do not prevent termite infestations but rather aid in early detection, allowing for prompt action to be taken to prevent further damage .
Installation and Requirements
The installation of ant caps is part of a broader termite management system, which is regulated by Australian Standard AS 3660.1 . This standard sets out the requirements for the design and construction of subterranean termite management systems for new buildings. Ant caps are an essential component of this system, providing a physical barrier that deters termites from gaining entry to a building via concealed routes .
Ant caps are commonly used in commercial construction in Australia due to the high prevalence of termite and ant infestations in the country. They are an essential component of a building's termite management system and are often required by building codes and regulations to ensure the structural integrity and longevity of the building.
It is important to note that ant caps alone are not sufficient to prevent termite infestations entirely. They should be used in conjunction with other termite management strategies, such as regular inspections, chemical treatments, and physical barriers, to provide comprehensive protection against termite and ant damage.
