Termites are a serious problem throughout a lot of the U.S. In the Southeast, Hawaii and California, termite issues are relentless. It would make a lot of sense to either construct or remodel our homes with the intention of preventing termites rather than waiting until we have a serious problem and then working overtime to eliminate the problem. This article will take into account a variety of methods and materials that will help stop termites from becoming a problem.

The primary thing to recognize is that termites need food and water to stay alive. If we can create or remodel our homes in ways that eliminate termite’s access to food and water, the danger will be reduced considerably. Although that sounds simple, the details are somewhat more complex. The 3 basic steps in preventative remodeling are 1) good defensive design that includes an variety of tactics, 2) use of termite-resistant building materials, and 3) installing barriers to inhibit access by termites.

Defensive design includes keeping the structure dry, controlling moisture in and around the home and permitting straightforward termite inspection. Research demonstrates that most infestations start with wood-to-ground contact. A high quality design will eliminate wood-to-ground contact. The next thing is to prevent moisture problems. Moist wood is a termite magnet. Make sure the soil slopes away from the home. Lower the humidity in crawlspaces. Design in access panels for high-threat locations such as where plumbing penetrates the structure.

Termite-resistant building materials are a key component of termite prevention. Possibilities include using steel framing rather than wood, and using treated lumber or naturally resistant woods such as heartwood of cypress. A newer option is plastic or composite woods. These are made from either 100% recycled plastic or plastic mixed with wood leftovers such as sawdust. A number of grades are available. One way to increase the termite-resistance of existing wood is to paint or spray with a preventative borate mixture. This is a great option if you’ll be replacing or installing new drywall so the framing is totally open. Borates penetrate the wood, don’t break down over time and will last a very long time.

In the U.S., chemical barriers are commonly used and quite effective. Physical barriers for subterranean termites are usually made of of either stainless steel mesh, sand, or crushed stone. Formosan termites can squeeze through openings as small as 1.4 mm or .055 in wide. One answer is stainless steel mesh. This mesh is a bit expensive and its usefulness relies completely on proper installation. A different solution that can work in certain areas is crushed stone or sand. The size of the particles is vital to success. Particle size must be adjusted for the specific termite in the area. If there are multiple subterranean termite in the area, this answer will not work.

Physical barriers for drywood termites mean that the home must be sealed from top to bottom. After the rennovation is finished, use caulk and expanding foam to close up every little crack and crevice. Leaving just one tiny breach means the termites have access to your home. Eventually one of them will find the gap and create an infestation.

The most secure way to approach termite remodeling is to employ all possible technique and technology. Time and money are limited however. Go with the most valuable techniques and materials first. You’re looking for the most bang for your buck. Get rid of wood-to-ground contact. Slope the soil away from the structure. Include access panels. Spray a borate solution on open wood. Use termite resistant construction materials. Seal the remodel project thoroughly. And get a termite inspection once a year. Different states have different codes and different laws. Always consult building and pest control professionals before carrying out the ideas above.

An inspection, and the resulting peace of mind, is only a phone call away. Florida Bug Inspectors provides professional inspections at a competitive cost. We also offer 20 years of expertise in prevention and control. Safe, effective, experienced. Call FBI today.