Prevention and Control of Termites in

Buildings

Course No: C02-084

Credit: 2 PDH

Elie Tawil, P.E., LEED AP

Continuing Education and Development, Inc.

P: (877) 322-5800
[email protected]

www.cedengineering.com
 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

This course was adapted from the US Department of Agriculture,

Publication “Subterranean Termites – Their Prevention and
Control in Buildings” which is in the public domain.
 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

Abstract

Subterranean termites are the most important practices, which vary depending on the type of
insect pest of wood in the United States. Living in structure and how the structure is to be landscaped
large underground colonies, termites may attack and decorated. The use of soil-applied insecticides
any wood in contact with the soil and may even during construction is the most widely employed
construct protective shelter tubes over nonwood method of preventing termites and has a long
materials to attack wood above ground. Most history of success. Use of pressure-treated lumber
damage in the United States is caused by termites is another successful practice, but termites may
in the genus Reticulitermes, but an invasive termite, tunnel over treated wood to reach untreated
the Formosan subterranean termite (Coptotermes), wood elsewhere. Control of termites in existing
causes extensive damage in some areas. Termites structures involves periodic inspections for termite
occur in all 50 States except Alaska but are most activity, remedial insecticide treatments, or use of
common in the Southern States. Termites prefer insecticidal bait technology.
warm, moist environments, and home builders
and homeowners often unwittingly increase the KEY WORDS: insecticidal bait, insecticide, pest
likelihood of termite infestations in homes and control, Reticulitermes, structural protection,
other structures by creating such environments. subterranean termite, wood product protection
Termite prevention begins with good building

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

Contents

Introduction...................................................................................................................................... 1
Termites—Biological Considerations.............................................................................................. 3
Termite Ecology........................................................................................................................ 3
Distribution of Subterranean Termites...................................................................................... 3
Biological and Physical Characteristics of the Subterranean Termite Colony.......................... 4
Materials Damaged by Subterranean Termites.......................................................................... 6
Conditions Favoring Subterranean Termite Infestation............................................................. 7
Detection of Damage Caused by Subterranean Termites.......................................................... 7
Planning and Construction To Prevent Attack by Subterranean Termites....................................... 9
Good Building Practices............................................................................................................ 9
The building site................................................................................................................. 9
Crawlspace (wall and pier or “conventional”) foundations.............................................. 10
Concrete slab-on-ground foundations............................................................................... 12
Basement foundations....................................................................................................... 13
Physical barriers................................................................................................................ 15
Exterior woodwork............................................................................................................ 15
Raised porches and terraces of concrete or masonry........................................................ 17
Direct Control Methods........................................................................................................... 17
Chemical soil treatment before construction.................................................................... 18
Considerations when treating new construction............................................................... 22
Naturally resistant woods.................................................................................................. 23
Chemically treated woods................................................................................................. 23
Control of Subterranean Termites in Existing Buildings............................................................... 24
Inspection................................................................................................................................ 24
Sanitation................................................................................................................................. 24
Chemical Control.................................................................................................................... 25
Termiticidal Baits.................................................................................................................... 26
Other Insects That Damage Wood in Buildings............................................................................. 29
Risk Factors for Termite Problems—A Checklist.......................................................................... 30
Acknowledgments.......................................................................................................................... 31
Pesticide Precautionary Statement................................................................................................. 32

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

Introduction

Subterranean termites are the most destructive and to damaged buildings, loss of property value, and
economically important pests of wood and other damage not immediately attributed to termites (such
cellulose products. They attack wood throughout as wind damage to weakened structures). In any
most of the United States, with the exception of case, much damage certainly goes unreported. Ter-
Alaska. They are most common, and hence most mites also do considerable damage to wood used as
destructive, in the warmer regions (fig. 1). utility poles, fence posts, and similar products.

The economic cost of termite damage to wood used The rising costs of termite control are attributed to
in and around buildings is great. It is difficult to several factors. Slab-on-ground construction and
establish the exact amount of damage caused by ter- concrete or masonry terraces adjacent to foundation
mites, but estimates of yearly damage of $1 billion walls favor termite attack and result in increased
are common, and some are as high as $7 billion. damage to buildings. Slab-on-ground construction
These numbers may or may not include the cost of is also the most costly to treat after construction.
treatments (both preventive and curative), repairs Repairs, remodeling, and landscape changes (if

Figure 1. — Relative hazard of subterranean termite infestations in the United States.

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

made without regard to termite prevention and infestations. It is more difficult and costly to
control) often lead to termite problems and impair apply effective control measures after a building
the effectiveness of any prior chemical treatment. has become infested with termites, but a control
program usually can be implemented successfully.
The best time to prevent future termite problems An infested building should be examined to
is during construction (see the discussion starting determine which type of termite is causing the
on page 9 for more details). Preventive efforts in damage, the extent of the infestation, and the
the planning stage may save the homeowner much measures needed to prevent further damage. Some
anxiety and expense. Buildings should be designed structures require simple physical changes (such
and built to minimize moisture uptake and retention as minimizing wood in contact with the ground),
by wood. Additions or repairs to buildings or repairs, or chemical treatments that can be made
changes in landscape also should be designed to by the owner. Others need major changes or
minimize the chances of termite infestation. Proper complicated chemical treatments that require the
protection from termites requires a cooperative services of a professional who has knowledge of
effort by architects, builders, pest management termite habits and is experienced in pest control.
professionals, and property owners.
This bulletin provides basic information to the
A combination of nonchemical and chemical homeowner and pest management professional.
techniques is recommended for termite prevention It suggests methods for preventing subterranean
and control. Sanitation measures and chemical termite attack in new and existing construction.
treatments are the most effective. Proper sanitation You may want to check these termite prevention
involves removing all stumps and wooden debris measures with a professional before building or
from the building site before and after construction buying a new home or before remodeling. For the
(including form boards and scraps). Burning of professional, this publication may be consulted
such materials is not sufficient, because burning to better understand the use of termite control
does not destroy the underground portions of products. If using chemical control measures,
stumps or buried materials. Chemical protection always read and follow label directions. This
involves treating the soil with an approved chemical publication also tells where to look for termites in
before, during, or after construction. Chemical existing buildings, how to recognize their damage,
prevention provides a barrier against termite and how to control them by both structural and
movement into wooden housing parts. Termite chemical means.
baits have become available in recent years for use
in place of or in conjunction with chemical soil
treatments.

Only a small percentage of the more than 105

million single-family homes in the United States
have been treated to control termites. This number
does not include rental, commercial, or institutional
structures. Some States require termite treatments,
but nationwide few structures are treated during
construction, although this is the most effective
and economical time to prevent future termite

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

Termites—Biological Considerations

Proper termite identification and knowledge of the Distribution of Subterranean Termites

species’ biology are essential elements in termite
In all areas of the United States, subterranean
control. This information provides the groundwork
termites are the most widespread and the most
for control methods based on the habits and
damaging of the three types. They are found in
behavior of termites.
every State except Alaska (fig. 1). Drywood termites
cause significant damage in localized areas, but are
Termite Ecology
limited in distribution to the Atlantic coastal States
In their natural habitats, termites are considered south of Virginia, the entire State of Florida, the
beneficial insects because they break down dead Gulf Coast, along the Mexican border, and along
or dying plant materials and thus are an important the Pacific Coast to just north of San Francisco.
part of the nutrient cycle. When termites feed on Dampwood termites are of only minor importance
wooden structures, however, they become pests. as structural pests and are limited to the Pacific
Coast, the desert Southwest, and southern Florida.
In general terms, three types of termites occur in Hawaii experiences problems with all three types of
the United States: (1) drywood, (2) dampwood, termite. This publication will deal exclusively with
and (3) subterranean termites. Drywood termites subterranean termites.
build their nests in sound, dry wood above ground.
Dampwood species locate their nests in moist, Most of the termite damage in the United States
decaying wood but can extend tunnels into drier is caused by native termite species. Infestations in
parts of the wood. Subterranean termites typically buildings, especially in the Northern States, have
dwell in the soil and work through it to reach become more common with the general adoption
wood above ground. In the United States, the vast of central heating units; heated basements also
majority of loss is caused by subterranean species. increase termite activity around structures. The
construction of suburban homes in forested areas
The soil provides several advantages that make it also has increased the termite problem. Changes
suitable as the dwelling for subterranean termites. It in building practices and the use of certain
serves as a source of moisture that protects termites construction materials increase the likelihood
against drying out, shields termites from predators, of termite infestations. Because of this, termites
and is used as a building material for shelter tubes have become a problem in areas where they were
above ground. Termites can excavate passageways formerly of little economic importance.
through the soil to reach food sources. If moisture
is available from another source, subterranean The Formosan subterranean termite, an introduced
termites may not require connection to the soil. species, was detected in Hawaii around 1850 and
Isolated aboveground infestations can occur in has since become a pest of considerable importance
homes where subterranean termites have access to on the major islands. This termite was first reported
water from condensation, leaking roofs, pipes, or in the continental United States in several port cities
other sources. along the Gulf Coast in the 1960s, but it is not yet

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

generally distributed. It was found in Florida in largely from human transportation of wood products
1980, and since then it has been found in isolated (especially railroad ties for landscaping). This is
parts of Alabama, Mississippi, Texas, Tennessee, an important fact to consider when transporting
Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. It wood materials from areas where the Formosan
is of great importance in localized areas, such subterranean termite is known to occur.
as New Orleans. These termites are larger, feed
more quickly, and are more aggressive than native Biological and Physical
species, and they also occur in larger colonies. Characteristics of the Subterranean
In addition, they are less dependent upon ground Termite Colony
contact than the native subterranean termites and Termites are social insects that live in highly
often can nest in walls. Currently there are no data organized colonies. Each colony is composed of
suggesting long-range movement of this species on “castes” of individuals that have different physical
its own on the mainland. Its movement has resulted features (fig. 2) or behavioral roles, or both. Three

Figure 2. — Typical subterranean termite life cycle.

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

types of individuals make up the termite caste Ants are often mistaken for termites, but readily
system: workers, soldiers, and reproductives (which visible characteristics differentiate the two very
may or may not be winged). Other intermediate different insects. Ants, when winged, have two pairs
forms are also present, but are rarely observed by of transparent wings of unequal size; termites have
the homeowner or pest management professional. two pairs of equal-sized wings. Also, the region
One can identify termite species by noting physical of the body behind the wings is “pinched” in ants
characteristics of the soldiers and reproductives. but broader in termites. The antennae of ants are
elbowed, while those of termites are straight and
Physical characteristics distinguish the different beadlike. These and other distinguishing features
termite castes. Worker termites (fig. 3) are wingless, are pictured in figure 5. Additionally, ants generally
soft bodied, and white or yellow-white. They are have harder bodies than termites. Termite workers
found in the greatest numbers in a subterranean are almost always soft bodied and white to yellow
termite colony and are the ones most frequently (sometimes caramel colored), but rarely red, dark
seen when infested wood is examined. The duties brown or black like ants. Finally, subterranean
of these reproductively undeveloped individuals are termites are almost never seen foraging out in the
to care for the eggs and young, feed and clean other open.
termites, forage for food, and construct and repair
shelter tubes and other workings. This is the caste A subterranean termite colony is self-perpetuating.
that actually eats the wood. Soldiers (fig. 3) have When the colony is composed of a large number of
larger, brownish heads and longer mouthparts than individuals, a small percentage of workers develop
workers. They guard the colony and defend against into winged reproductives that then fly in swarms to
predators. Reproductives (fig. 4), or sexual adults, establish new colonies. Most winged reproductives
have black or yellow-brown bodies. They have two perish during the flight because of predators such as
pairs of long, whitish, translucent wings of equal birds, bats, lizards, or other insects. The time of day
size at the time when they disperse from the colony, and year when flights occur varies with the species
but they shed their wings soon after flight. With of termite and its geographic location. Flights often
increased age, the body of a functioning female occur during the first warm days of spring after a
reproductive may become greatly expanded with rain (therefore earlier in the year in the South than
developing eggs and will attain a size several times in the North), but they can occur at any time of the
that of workers. year. In buildings with heated basements, termites
occasionally fly during winter.

Figure 4. — Winged adult termite.

Figure 3. — Soldier (top, with enlarged head and
mandibles) and worker termites.
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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

Figure 5. — Physical characteristics distinguish termites from ants.

Males and females in the flights are referred to as reproductives each year. In some situations, a
kings and queens, respectively. They shed their few workers may develop into reproductives and
wings after the flight, and each pair excavates a supplement the egg laying of the original queen.
cell in or near wood in the ground and mate. Most
subterranean species in the United States lay fewer Materials Damaged by Subterranean
than 100 eggs during the first year, but egg laying Termites
increases with time. The principal food of subterranean termites is
cellulose obtained from wood and other plant
Depending on species, a colony more than 5 or tissues. Termites feed on the wooden portions of
6 years old may contain from several thousand buildings, utility poles, fence posts, or other wood
to over a million termites and produce winged products. They can also damage paper, fiberboard,

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

and various types of fabrics derived from cotton Termites may eliminate their contact with the soil
and other plants. They occasionally are found in when an aboveground moisture source is available.
living plants and sometimes in puffball mushrooms. Damp wood near sinks, toilets, and leaking pipes or
As termites search for food, they can damage many wood kept moist by runoff water, as from the roof
noncellulose materials, including plastics, rubber, or gutters, is a prime location for termites.
and even thin metal, although these do not serve as
food sources. Detection of Damage Caused by
Subterranean Termites
Conditions Favoring Subterranean Early detection of termite infestations and subse-
Termite Infestation quent control measures should enable homeowners
Understanding the biological requirements and to protect their dwellings. A relatively simple, but
conditions that favor termite activities better careful, inspection of one’s home may reveal previ-
prepares one to inspect buildings and identify ously undetected signs of termite activity.
potential problem areas. An important consideration
is the termite’s dependency on moisture. Their Termite damage to wood often is not noticeable
high moisture requirements increase the likelihood on the surface. This is because workers avoid
that they will maintain contact with the soil or exposure to air by constructing galleries within
locate near areas where water collects (such as air the materials they attack. Severely damaged wood
conditioning condensers, drains, condensation from may have a hollow sound when tapped. Prodding
pipes, etc.), or both. with a screwdriver is a simple way to determine
the soundness of a suspected piece of wood. The
Subterranean termites become more abundant in exterior surface must be stripped away in order to
moist, warm soil containing a large supply of food. see the extent of damage. Extensive tunnels that run
Such conditions often are found beneath buildings along the grain are signs that subterranean termites
where there is inadequate water drainage, or poor have attacked the wood (fig. 6). These galleries are
ventilation, or where scraps of lumber, form boards, often covered with yellow-brown or gray specks
grade stakes, stumps, or roots are left in the soil. of excrement and soil. Occasionally, termites
Once termites locate such an area, they can move completely honeycomb wooden timbers, leaving
into buildings in a variety of ways. Termites invade little more than a wooden shell. Subterranean
most buildings through wood close to or in contact termites do not reduce the wood to a powdery mass
with the soil, particularly at porches, steps, terraces,
fences, or planters. Termites can easily enter
small cracks or voids in foundations (including
the center of cinder blocks) and concrete floors to
reach wood that does not touch the soil. As with all
insects, termite activity and development depend
on temperature. When soil is kept warm throughout
the year, as it is when basements are heated,
termite activity is increased and prolonged. Such a
“thermal shadow” exists in most structure types and
may be increased by heating units, steam pipes, or
electrical conduits near the soil. Figure 6. — Wood damaged by subterranean termites.

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

or push wood particles to the outside, as do many Most subterranean termite species found in the
other woodboring insects (such as beetles and United States do not construct a clearly defined
carpenter ants). nest. The Formosan subterranean termite, however,
often builds “carton” nests within walls. The
In exposed areas, termites must protect themselves carton nest is a honeycombed mass composed
from the drying effects of air. Thus, earthen shelter of chewed wood, saliva, and feces that retains
tubes constructed over the surface of foundation water and protects the termites from predators.
walls are typical signs of termite infestation (fig. 7). Although occupied carton nests are relatively moist
These tubes are usually about 1/4 to 1/2 inch wide, and pliable, abandoned nests dry and harden to a
and termites use them as passageways between the concrete-like consistency.
wood and the soil. To determine if an infestation
is active, break a section of the tube and watch for Large numbers of winged termites swarming from
termites. If you do not see any termites, then check the soil or wood are often the most obvious sign
back in several days to see if the termites repair the of a nearby termite colony. Although flights may
damaged tubes or build new ones. not be observed, discarded wings on the floor
beneath doors or at windowsills suggest that winged
termites have either emerged within a building
and have been unable to escape, or have emerged
nearby. Winged reproductives are produced by
well-established colonies, often containing at
least several thousand members, and colonies of
hundreds of thousands are common.

Figure 7. — Termite shelter tubes.

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

Planning and Construction To Prevent Attack by Subterranean

Termites

The best and least expensive time to protect a of infestation, and burning will not destroy
building against subterranean termites is during underground portions. Wooden spreader sticks and
planning and construction. grade stakes should be removed before the concrete
hardens. Form boards and scraps of lumber should
Improper design and construction of buildings, be removed before filling or backfilling around the
resulting from either lack of knowledge or completed foundation. Wood should not be buried
indifference to the termite problem, are favorable beneath porches and steps (fig. 8). No scraps of
to infestation. It is therefore important to use good lumber should be left on the soil surface beneath or
building practices and chemical soil treatments around the building after construction.
during construction.
To prevent moisture buildup in the soil beneath a
Good Building Practices building, the soil surface around the building should
The building site—All roots, stumps, and be sloped so that water will drain away from it.
other wood debris should be removed from the Gutters and downspouts attached to eaves can help
building site before construction starts. Burying remove water quickly. Where there is poor surface
such material will only increase the probability drainage, as on flat surfaces or around buildings

Figure 8. — Termite colonies can develop in woody debris and gain access to the structure.

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

with basements, the use of drainage tile around a. The most resistant of this type are capped
the outside of the building foundation may prove with reinforced poured concrete at least
helpful. 4 inches (10 cm) thick (fig. 10).
b. If foundation walls are capped with solid
Crawlspace (wall and pier or “conventional”) concrete blocks, all joints should be
foundations—The proper construction of completely filled with cement mortar.
foundations is one of the most important measures c. If the top course is hollow blocks, all
that can be taken to protect against termites and joints should be completely filled with
should be considered very carefully. All foundations concrete. Where hollow blocks remain open
should be made as impervious to termites as no protection is provided unless all voids
possible. Crawlspace foundations may be rated are chemically treated, or the soil beneath
from most to least resistant as follows: the footing is treated before the footing is
poured. Do not apply a termiticide to voids
1. Poured concrete wall and pier foundations filled with rigid foam insulation.
(fig. 9) that are properly reinforced to prevent
large shrinkage or settlement cracks are the 3. Wooden piers or posts used for foundations
most resistant. Termites can use cracks as small are the least resistant and should be pressure
as 0.03 inch (0.8 mm). treated with an approved preservative by a
standard process. Some States require this in the
2. Hollow block or brick wall foundations are building code. However, even pressure-treated
less resistant, depending on how they are piers are susceptible to termite attack because
capped: the treatment may not extend to the center of the

Figure 9. — Poured concrete walls and piers are easily inspected for hidden termite infestations.

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

pier. Cut ends of pressure-treated piers should Skirting between foundation piers—Where pier
not be placed in direct contact with the soil. foundations are used, it is sometimes desirable to
close the spaces between the piers with lattice or
Ventilation beneath buildings—Ventilation wooden skirting. If this is done, the woodwork
openings in conventional foundation walls should should be separated from the piers and soil by at
be large enough and distributed to prevent dead least 2 inches (5 cm).
air pockets from forming. Such pockets give rise to
humid conditions conducive to termite activity and Water pipes and conduits—Keep all plumbing
wood decay. Openings placed within 10 feet (3 m) and electrical conduits clear of the ground in
of the corners of buildings usually give the best crawlspaces. Suspend them from girders and joists
cross ventilation. The openings need not be placed where possible. Do not support them with wooden
on the front side of a building if unventilated areas blocks or stakes connected to the ground because
can be avoided. The size and number of openings termites will tunnel through these wood supports or
depend on soil moisture, atmospheric humidity, construct tubes over them to sills, floors, and joists
and air movement. In general, the total area of above. Chemically treat the soil around plumbing
ventilation should be 1/150 of the ground area extending from the ground to the wood above.
beneath the building. Shrubbery should be kept
far enough away from the openings to permit free Where pipes or steel columns penetrate concrete
air circulation and should be far enough from the slabs or foundation walls, fill the spaces around
foundation to allow inspection of wall surfaces for them with either dense cement mortar or roofing-
the presence of termite tubes. grade coal-tar pitch after the soil around the pipe or
column has been chemically treated.

Figure 10. — Reinforced poured concrete cap on masonry walls prevents hidden attack by termites. Clearance
between the floor and soil should be at least 18 inches (46 cm).

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

Closed crawlspace foundations—Closed can gain access to the building over the edge
crawlspace foundations consist of conventional of the slab, through expansion joints, through
crawlspace foundations that use a mechanical openings around plumbing, and through cracks in
heating and cooling system to control temperature the slab. Infestations in buildings with this type of
and moisture. No ventilation to the outside construction are very difficult to control.
is provided, and the walls and floor above
are insulated to retard heat loss and moisture Because the slab-on-ground construction is
condensation. The ground, and frequently the walls, extremely susceptible to termite attack and
must be covered with a plastic vapor barrier or infestations are difficult to control, treat the soil
insulated. When installing insulation in a closed with chemicals before pouring the concrete. Such
crawlspace, a strip at least 3 inches (7.5 cm) wide soil treatments, properly applied, are effective and
must be left exposed along the top perimeter of the much less expensive and invasive than remedial
foundation wall to allow for detection of termite treatments at a later date.
tunnels during inspection. Special attention must
be given to the inspection and treatment of these Do not leave any untreated wood such as forms,
structures as accessibility of closed crawlspace scraps, grade stakes, or wood plugs in or beneath
areas and soil is severely restricted. the slab. Reinforce the slab at all points where it is
likely to crack.
Concrete slab-on-ground foundations—One of
the most susceptible types of construction, and Termites can penetrate some types of slabs more
one that often gives a false sense of security, is easily than others. The monolithic slab (fig. 11)
the concrete slab-on-ground foundation. Termites provides the best protection against termites. In this

Figure 11. — Monolithic concrete slab-on-ground construction.

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

type of construction the floor and the footing are termites may gain hidden access to the wood
poured in one continuous operation, eliminating through expansion joints.
joints or other structural features that permit termite
entry. Basement foundations—In many ways, a house
with a basement can be seen as a conventional foun-
A second type is the suspended or supported slab dation house built over a concrete slab on ground,
(fig. 12) that extends completely across the top of with continuous walls of poured concrete, cinder
the foundation. Here the slab and the foundation are block, or brick (sometimes stone). Many of the
constructed as independent units. This prevents hid- termite considerations for basement-style houses
den termite attack because even though a vertical will be a combination of those for conventional
crack may develop in the wall, termites still must and slab-on-ground construction, and the reader
tunnel over an exposed part of the slab. The lower should consult those parts of this booklet. “Dirt
edge of the suspended slab should be open to view. basements,” where the structure is built over an
With the monolithic and suspended slabs, the slab excavated area, are regarded as crawlspace founda-
should be at least 6 inches (15 cm) above grade. tions. Basements do provide some unique situations,
however, which are described below.
A third type is the floating slab (fig. 13). It may
either rest on a ledge of the foundation or be Basement rooms—Termite infestations in basement
independent of it. In both instances the slab is in rooms are very difficult to detect and control. Such
contact with the ground. This is the most hazardous situations exist commonly in finished basements
of the three types of slabs because the slab edges where untreated wood floors and furring strips are
come in contact with the foundation walls, and used. The best way to prevent such infestations is

Figure 12. — Suspended concrete slab-on-ground construction.

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

to treat the soil below the basement floor and along reinforced concrete because the concrete may crack,
the outside of the foundation, preferably before providing entrance points for termites (fig. 14).
the foundation and basement floor are constructed.
Pressure-treated lumber should be used for wood Windows below grade—Where window frames
screeds, subflooring, and furring strips because of or other openings near or below outside grade are
the danger of decay. made of wood, the foundation wall surrounding the
wood should be made impervious to termites. The
Partitions and posts—Install wooden basement bottom of the window well should be at least 6 inches
partitions, posts, and stair carriages after the (15 cm) below the nearest wood.
concrete floor is poured. They should never extend
into or through the concrete. Wood posts, partitions, Girders, sills, and joists—Wooden girders, sills,
stair carriages, heating units, and other loadbearing and joists that are in or on foundation walls in
points should rest on concrete floorings that extend basements should not be placed below the outside
at least 3 inches (8 cm) above the floor level. Use grade level. Termites may find hidden access to this

Figure 13. — Slab-on-ground construction (floating slab): (above, left) slab suspended on foundation wall; (above,
right) slab rests entirely on ground.

Figure 14. — Posts in concrete: Certain situations increase vulnerability to termite attack.

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

wood and it may be subject to decay. Because of the In recent years stainless steel mesh and plastic
difficulty of replacing girders, sills, and joists, it is a physical barriers have been introduced. Such
good practice to use preservative-treated lumber for materials are placed underneath the slab before
these structural members. Termites generally will the concrete is poured (fig. 16). If the material
not eat wood treated with preservatives, but they is impermeable plastic, it may be used in lieu of
will tunnel over treated wood to reach untreated the vapor barrier, if that is in accordance with the
wood. manufacturer’s instructions. Areas around pipes,
conduits, and other service penetrations of the
Physical barriers—For conventional foundations, slab receive an additional protective flange of the
metal or plastic termite shields (fig. 15) have been material to prevent termite entry (fig. 17). When
used as a replacement for the concrete cap or wooden posts are in direct contact with the ground,
other methods of sealing masonry foundations. such as for a deck support, the posts are wrapped
If properly designed, constructed, installed, and with a sleeve of material (fig. 15). Some physical
maintained, shields will force termites out into the barriers are impregnated with insecticide to provide
open, revealing any tunnels constructed around even more protection.
the edge and over the upper surface of the shield.
Experience has shown, however, that very few Exterior woodwork—Finishing work on the
shields are properly constructed and installed and outside of buildings should be constructed with the
that homeowners usually fail to inspect shields prevention of termite infestations in mind.
frequently enough to detect termite infestations.
The shields make infestations easier to detect, but Clearance between wood and soil—Except when
do not provide effective protection and should not a basement is present, the outside finished grade
be solely relied upon to control termites. should always be equal to or below the level of the
soil underneath the structure (figs. 9, 10, and 18)

Figure 15. — Physical barriers: (above, left) around a post; (above, right) as a wall cap (termite shield).

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

Figure 16. — Physical barrier placed beneath the slab over gravel fill.

Figure 17. — Protective physical barrier embedded in concrete around service penetrations.

16
 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

so that the foundation wall is exposed and can be Door frames—Door frames and jambs should never
inspected. This will help prevent the collection extend into or through a concrete floor.
of water underneath the house. Siding should not
extend more than 2 inches (5 cm) below the top Raised porches and terraces of concrete or
of the foundation walls, piers and concrete caps, masonry—Dirt-filled porches and terraces
and should be at least 6 inches (15 cm) above the contribute to a large proportion of all termite
outside grade. This will force termites out into infestations in buildings. Therefore, spaces beneath
the open where their tunnels can be seen before concrete porches, entrance platforms, and similar
they reach the wood. In crawlspaces the minimum raised units should not be filled with soil. Such
clearance between the ground and the bottom of spaces should be left open with access doors for
the floor joists should be 18 inches (46 cm); such inspection. If this cannot be done, or if the spaces
clearances for beams and girders should be 12 inches beneath such raised units must be filled, leave 6
(30 cm) (fig. 18). inches (15 cm) of clearance between soil and wood
and thoroughly treat the soil with a registered soil
Wooden porches and steps—Porch supports (such termiticide.
as piers) adjacent to a building should be separated
from the building proper by 2 inches (5 cm) to Direct Control Methods
prevent hidden access by termites. Wooden steps Chemical treatment of the soil around and under
should rest upon a concrete base or apron that the foundation is one of the prime methods of
extends at least 6 inches (15 cm) above the grade preventing termite attack. This should not be
(fig. 19). used as a substitute for good building practices.

Figure 18. — For masonry superstructures, provide adequate clearance between wood and soil both outside and inside
the building.

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

Figure 19. — Construction of wooden steps to prevent hidden termite attack.

Chemically treated and naturally resistant woods environmental hazards, and Federal regulation
can reduce the susceptibility of wooden structures determine which pesticides may be used, and by
to termite attack. Baits are not currently used whom. Some pesticides may be purchased and used
during construction for termite control, but some by the homeowner, but most require certification
States do allow them to be used in lieu of chemical by the State and a license to purchase and use.
treatment even though installed after construction is Additionally, individual States may impose further
completed. regulations or recommendations specific to their
area. Be sure to check with your State authorities
Chemical soil treatment before construction— before attempting to use a pesticide product.
Insecticide-treated soil serves as one of the most
important means of isolating a building from Note: The following sections are provided for
termites. Soil treatment is most effective when done information purposes only. They are intended to
before and during construction of the foundation. It give a better understanding of how soil treatments
is particularly important when using concrete slab- for termite control are used. They are not meant
on-ground construction. as a substitute for the label of any product. Be
aware that many termite control pesticides are
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) limited to use by only State-licensed termite control
regulates pesticide use in the United States. Several applicators. Always read and follow
chemical formulations are registered with the label directions. It is unsafe, ineffective,
EPA for the treatment of soil to prevent termite and a violation of Federal law to use a pesticide in a
attack. The chemicals available for use vary over manner other than prescribed on the label.
time. Such factors as economics, human safety,

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

Preparation of chemical solutions—A soil (30 cm) to the top of the footing. The holes
chemical is often purchased as a liquid may need to be closer together in hard-
concentrate. The concentrate is formulated packed clay soils than in light sandy soils.
according to the percentage, or weight in pounds Four gallons (15 liters) of diluted chemical
per gallon, of the insecticide it contains. Each are applied to 10 linear feet (3 m) of trench
concentrate contains inert ingredients that improve for each foot (30 cm) of depth from grade
application and performance, and it must be diluted to footing. The soil is saturated with the
before use. Some compounds are purchased as chemical as the trench is being refilled.
a wettable powder that dissolves or becomes c. If an attached porch, carport, or other
suspended when mixed with water. Wettable structure contains wood, the soil beneath
powders contain several inert ingredients also. the slab should be treated with 1 gallon
Neither powders nor concentrates provide better (4 liters) for 10 square feet (1 m2) before
termite control. The form the pesticide comes in the concrete is poured. This is to prevent
is determined by manufacturing considerations. termites from gaining access to the main
Directions are given on the container for diluting structure through wood in the attached
the concentrated solution to the desired strength. structure.
The label directions must be followed exactly.
2. Slab-on-ground construction—This type of
Rates and methods of application—The objective construction should be treated with a registered
of treating soil with chemicals is to provide a termiticide after any backfilling, leveling, and
continuous chemical barrier in soil surrounding the tamping of the soil and before the concrete is
building foundation. The chemical must be applied poured. The chemical is applied with a power
thoroughly and uniformly to block all routes of sprayer using low pressure to avoid misting and
termite entry. This requires that the treatment be off-target drift.
applied at all potential termite entry points. The
rates and methods of application vary with the type a. Where the fill is soil or unwashed gravel,
of construction. 1 gallon (4 liters) of diluted chemical per
10 square feet (1 m2) of area is applied as
1. Crawlspace houses (conventional an overall treatment under the slab and any
foundation)—The soil under and around crawl attached slab porch, carport, garage, and
space houses should be treated as follows: terrace (fig. 22).
a. Four gallons (15 liters) of diluted chemical b. If the fill is washed gravel or other coarse
are applied per 10 linear feet (3 m) of absorbent material, such as cinder, 1.5
trench along the inside of all foundation gallons (6 liters) are applied per 10 square
walls and along all sides of interior feet (1 m2) to ensure penetration of the
supports and plumbing (figs. 20 and 21). termiticide to the soil beneath.
b. A trench 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 cm) wide c. In critical areas under the slab, such as
is dug along the outside of the foundation along the inside of foundation walls, along
(including the soil beneath porches and both sides of interior partition walls, and
patios before the concrete is poured). Where around plumbing, 4 gallons (15 liters) of
the top of the footing is more than 12 inches diluted chemical are applied to the soil per
(30 cm) deep, holes will be made in the 10 linear feet (3 m).
soil at intervals no greater than 12 inches

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

d. Voids in masonry blocks or foundations may

be treated as well. If the voids are inacces-
sible, it may be necessary to drill holes near
the footing and inject a chemical to form
a continuous barrier. Two gallons (8 liters)
of diluted chemical are applied to 10 linear
feet (3 m) of wall or foundation (fig. 23).
Do not apply a termiticide to wall voids
filled with rigid foam insulation.
e. After the slab is poured, a trench 6 to 8 inches
(15 to 20 cm) wide is dug along the outside
of the foundation (fig. 20). Where the top of
the footing is more than 12 inches (30 cm)
deep and where large volumes of chemical
must be applied, holes are made about 12
inches (30 cm) apart in the bottom of the
trench to the top of the footing using a soil
auger, crowbar, metal rod, or grouting rod.
These holes permit better distribution of
the chemical by providing access to the soil
at depths below the trench. The holes may
Figure 20. — Application of a chemical to soil around a need to be closer together in hard-packed
foundation.
clay soils than in light sandy soils. Four

Figure 21. — Application of a chemical to crawlspace construction. Soil treatment is applied (1) alongside outside wall,
(2) inside wall, (3) around pier, and (4) around plumbing.

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

gallons (15 liters) of diluted chemical are

applied to 10 linear feet (3 m) of trench
for each foot (30 cm) of depth from grade
to footing. The soil is saturated with the
chemical as the trench is filled.

3. Basement houses—The soil under and around

houses with basements should be treated as
follows:
a. The soil under and around basement
houses is treated in the same manner
as recommended for slab-on-ground
construction (figs. 22 and 24).
b. Voids in masonry foundations may be
treated at or near the footing with 2 gallons
(8 liters) of chemical per 10 linear feet (3 m) of
wall. Do not apply a termiticide if the voids
have been filled with rigid foam insulation.
Figure 22. — Chemical treatment of fill material before
slab is poured.

Figure 23. — Application of chemical to slab construction.

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

4. Other types of construction—It is not Mechanical disturbance of treated soil breaks the
possible to list in detail all the various types continuity of the insecticide barrier and increases
of construction available. However, treatments the probability of termite penetration. The treatment
should be made according to the individual of fill under slabs is less than 2 inches (5 cm) deep
component parts, using the specifications that and the majority of the material is in the top 3/4 inch
apply to each. (2 cm); therefore very little disturbance to the
treated soil can be tolerated. The final treatment on
Considerations when treating new construction— the outside of the foundation walls should be done
The type of soil encountered at the building site and after all grading and other soil disturbance has
the amount of moisture present in the soil just prior been completed. A freshly treated slab foundation
to treatment will have an effect on the acceptance site should be protected with a polyethylene sheet
of liquids at the recommended rates. A soil fill will or other waterproof material. This will prevent rain
best accept a treatment when it is damp but not from washing away the insecticide or treated soil.
excessively wet or dry. Most product labels prohibit
application to saturated or frozen soil. If the soil Any disturbance of treated soil, even years after
is excessively wet, there is a chance of runoff, and treatment, can disrupt the integrity of the termiticide
the chemical will not penetrate the soil. In frozen barrier. Laying of pipes, cables, phone lines, etc.,
or excessively dry soil the chemical solution is into a house through the treated barrier can disrupt
repelled and puddling occurs, resulting in poor the barrier, and disturbed soil should be retreated
distribution of the termiticide.

Figure 24. — Application of chemical in basement construction: (A) treatment along foundation, (B) rodding to top of
footing, (C) treatment of fill below slab, and (D) slab poured after fill has been treated.

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

once the work is finished. Landscaping practices still eat resistant wood if a preferred wood is not
near the foundation wall may disrupt the barrier available.
and make inspections more difficult. Care should
be taken when planting shrubs or other plants that Different woods vary in their relative resistance
the treated area is not disturbed. Landscape timbers to termites. Some species typically considered
placed over a treated zone may provide a bridge for resistant are bald cypress, eastern red cedar,
termites to bypass the barrier and gain entrance into chestnut, Arizona cypress, black locust, redwood,
the house. Use treated lumber for such purposes, Osage orange, black walnut, and Pacific yew. It
and make sure the wood does not come in direct should be noted that even the most resistant
contact with the house. woods cannot be considered termite barriers.
Termites can tube over resistant wood and attack
The termiticide is stable once it dries on the soil. susceptible wood. Generally, the use of resistant
Because most commonly used termiticides are wood throughout a structure can be economically
insoluble in water, leaching is not a problem. There justified only when drywood termites or decay are
is a slight risk, however, of contaminating a well considered serious problems and protection from
or other water supply if insecticides are applied to them is necessary.
nearby soil that either contains layers of gravel or
tends to crack severely in periods of dry weather. Chemically treated woods—Chemically treated
In these situations, the soil should not be treated wood safeguards against both termites and decay.
with chemicals and other control methods should The degree of protection obtained depends on the
be used. kind of preservative, the penetration achieved, and
the retention of the chemical in the wood. Woods of
Many termiticides are extremely toxic to fish various species and types differ in their ability to be
and other aquatic organisms. Therefore, special treated, and the heartwood resists treatment more
care must be used to avoid insecticide drift when than the sapwood.
treating buildings near bodies of water. Care should
also be used if there is a chance of treated soil The life of wood structures can often be increased
washing into a pond or stream if it rains before by applying wood preservatives at standard reten-
the slab is poured. Do not apply a termiticide if tion rates and ensuring that the wood is satisfacto-
precipitation is likely. rily penetrated. For maximum protection, the wood
should be pressure treated with an approved chemi-
Naturally resistant woods—Untreated sapwood cal by a standard process. In less severe conditions,
is highly susceptible to termites and has a short a vacuum treatment usually gives adequate protec-
service life when termites are allowed access to tion. Brush, spray, or short-period soak treatments
it. However, the heartwood of some tree species only give limited protection of wood above ground
has varying degrees of termite resistance. This and should not be relied upon to give long-term pro-
resistance is attributed to chemical components tection from termite attack.
produced naturally by the living tree that are toxic
and/or repellent to the termites. The practice of As with the naturally resistant woods, termites are
using resistant woods has been almost completely able to tube over treated wood and attack untreated
replaced in the United States by using chemicals to wood. Again, because of cost, only where drywood
protect wood. Even the most resistant wood is not termites and decay are a problem should chemically
completely immune to attack, because termites will treated wood be used throughout a structure.

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

Control of Subterranean Termites in Existing Buildings

Ridding existing structures of termites and making the chemical barriers, providing access for termites.
them resistant to future infestations are major Settlement cracks may occur in the foundation walls
problems in termite control. Generally, buildings or concrete slabs and allow termite entrance.
become infested because little or no attention
was given during construction to the preventive With proper inspection, very little termite damage
measures that would have made the structures should result before discovery. Termites typically
resistant to termites. It is in such buildings that work slowly and can be detected and controlled
termites cause heavy losses each year. before causing structural weakness to the timbers.
Although extreme haste is not required, once an
Observe the same principles that are recommended infestation is discovered, treatment should be
for the prevention of infestations in new buildings applied within a few months.
when controlling termites in existing buildings.
That is, eliminate conditions favoring the Sanitation
development of termite colonies in the soil and Sanitation and structural control measures should
permitting passage of termites to wood within the be given consideration in the control of existing
structure. Subterranean termites in the wooden infestations. In addition to chemical treatments, the
parts of a building will die if they are unable to following control measures should be used:
maintain contact with the soil or other sources of 1. Remove all wood, including form boards
moisture. and other debris containing cellulose, from
underneath and adjacent to buildings.
Inspection 2. Remove exterior wooden structures, such as
Regardless of previous preventive measures, trellises, that connect the ground with the
wooden structures should be inspected woodwork of the house. Any wood remaining
periodically for evidence of active infestation. If in contact with the soil should be treated with
no preconstruction measures were employed, the preservative.
structure should be inspected more frequently. 3. Replace heavily damaged (structurally weakened)
Under certain circumstances, termites may sills, joists, flooring, etc., with sound wood.
breach even the best physical barriers, and even Where possible, remove all soil within 18 inches
insecticides may be ineffective in stopping termites. (46 cm) of floor joists and 12 inches (30 cm) of
The continuity of the termite barrier may be girders (fig. 10).
broken, and maintenance or repair personnel may 4. Fill voids, cracks, or expansion joints in
leave a condition that favors termite infestation concrete or masonry with cement or roofing-
after working underneath or around the structure. grade coal-tar pitch.
A homeowner can inadvertently disturb the treated 5. Provide adequate drainage (see pages 9 through
soil or place wood on the soil against or under 10).
the building. If not cautious, the homeowner may 6. Provide access for inspection of vulnerable
overlook vegetation that has grown over or through areas.

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

7. Provide adequate foundation ventilation 1. Crawlspace construction—Buildings with

in crawlspace construction. A barrier of crawlspaces usually can be treated easily and
polyethylene or similar material should be effectively. The procedures recommended
placed on the soil to retard moisture. for pretreatment can also be used for termite
control in existing buildings (see pages 19
Chemical Control through 20).
Chemicals used to prevent termite infestations are
sometimes also used to control existing infestations 2. Slab-on-ground construction—Termite
in buildings. The rates of application, method infestations in buildings with this type of
of preparation, and necessary precautions are foundation present serious control problems. It
discussed on pages 17 through 23. is difficult to form an effective chemical barrier
in the soil beneath such floors. One way to treat
The many variations in construction prevent under a slab is to drill a series of vertical holes
a detailed discussion of exact procedures for about 0.5 inch (1.2 cm) in diameter through the
chemical treatment in all situations. In applying slab and into the soil beneath, particularly at the
treatments, however, remember that the purpose base of partition walls and other points where
is to establish a chemical barrier between the termites may be entering (fig. 25). In most
termites in the soil and wood in the structure or cases, holes should be no more than 12 inches
to reestablish the barrier if it has been broken. It is (30 cm) apart. Because a complete barrier is
best to have this work done by a professional. Some necessary for the treatment to be effective, the
procedures for treatment of existing buildings are chemical injected into each hole must meet with
as follows: that injected in adjacent holes. The advantage of
vertical drilling is that the chemical will flood
and cover the surface of the soil.

Figure 25. — Treatment under a concrete slab with vertical rodding to reestablish the chemical barrier.

25
 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

Another way to treat under slabs is to drill is removed onto a heavy plastic sheet or into a
horizontally through exterior foundation walls to wheelbarrow. The termiticide formulation is
the soil just beneath the slab and inject the chemical applied at a rate equivalent to 4 gallons (15 liters)
in the holes. This method is complicated, requires of diluted chemical to 10 linear feet (3 m) of
special equipment, and should be performed only trench for each foot (30 cm) of depth. The
by a professional. Extreme caution should be termiticide is thoroughly mixed into the soil and
taken to prevent drilling into plumbing, electrical the soil is replaced into the trench.
conduits, or heating ducts that may be imbedded
in concrete. Injection of termiticides into these Some termiticide producers caution against using
areas must be avoided. Always treat along the their product near sump pumps and French drains.
outside of the foundation (see pages 19 through 21). A termiticide may usually be applied near a sump
pump if the water level in the pit is not rising. The
3. Basement construction—Treat the soil along soil around French drains usually may be treated
the outside walls of basements (see page 21). if the soil is dry. For sump pumps and French
drains, the treated backfill method may be used if
4. Raised porches, terraces, and entrance desired. Do not apply a termiticide if precipitation
slabs—Termite infestations frequently occur at is likely, and do not use irrigation systems until the
porches, terraces, and entrance slabs. The most termiticide has had time to dry.
satisfactory way to control infestations at these
locations is to excavate the soil adjacent to the Termiticidal Baits
foundation wall, remove all wood debris, and Several termite bait applications have become
apply a chemical to the soil as recommended. popular in recent years. Baiting technology relies
Place an access panel over the foundation on certain biological principles. Termites, being
opening to permit inspection. Alternatively, social insects, are known to feed each other, and
holes may be drilled either through the adjacent termites foraging on a treated substance (paper,
foundation wall from within the crawlspace cardboard, etc.) can transfer a portion of the active
or basement, or through the entrance slab at ingredient to nestmates (fig. 26). The idea is that
intervals no larger than 12 inches (30 cm). not all termites need to encounter the bait itself
Chemicals should be injected to form a to be killed. Some baits may be purchased and
continuous barrier. used by homeowners, others need to be installed
and monitored by licensed professionals. Baits
5. Buildings with wells, cisterns, sump pumps, are applied in the same manner regardless of
French drains, or irrigation systems— construction type.
Although most termiticides are not very soluble
in water once they have dried to the soil, during Most currently available baits employ the place-
application the chemical can be washed or ment of untreated monitor stations around or near a
blown into a well, cistern, or drainage system. structure (fig. 27). The placement is determined by
Where wells are located close to or within the manufacturer’s instructions. Here, the termite
foundation walls, care must be taken to avoid presence may be detected before the termites enter
contamination of the well or cistern. If the a structure. Most monitoring stations consist of a
label allows, the treated backfill method may plastic tube with holes or slits cut to allow termite
be used. The soil around the well or cistern entry. Within the station is a food source, often

26
 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

Figure 26. — Termite bait is taken by termites and then shared with others in the colony.

Figure 27. — Bait stations placed along the perimeter of a house (number shown is less than that typically
recommended by the manufacturers).

27
 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

wood, paper, or cellulose powder. The stations are Baits may be used alone, or in conjunction with
monitored on a schedule and, once termites are chemical treatments. Care should be taken to ensure
detected in the monitoring stations, the toxic bait is that chemicals do not contaminate the monitoring/
added. The bait may or may not be in the same form bait stations. Such contamination may cause the ter-
as the monitoring material. The stations continue to mites to avoid the monitoring station, allowing them
be monitored and new bait added until termite activity to go undetected. Also, care should be taken when
stops for a specified amount of time, such as 1 year. using lawn care and landscaping pesticides in areas
Once this happens, the bait station is removed and where bait monitoring stations may be present.
replaced with a new monitoring station.
Because most homeowners cannot afford to use
The active ingredients of some baits are insect both chemical and bait treatments, the question
growth regulators that interrupt important processes arises as to which technology is preferable. This
in the insect’s life, such as the shedding of skin. As will depend on the homeowner’s preferences.
a result, they are usually specific to insects with few Both chemical treatments and baits are popular.
effects on noninsect life. However, because they in- Table 1 describes some important advantages and
terfere only with certain stages, it may take weeks, disadvantages of baits and chemical termiticides.
months, or even years to control an infestation.
Other baits use metabolic poisons, which affect a
specific point in the termites’ energy cycle.

Table 1. — Comparison of the advantages and disadvantages of baits and soil-applied liquid termiticides.
Baits Liquid termiticides

Lower amounts of chemical are used—ounces (g) versus Large amounts of chemical are used—gallons (liters).
gallons (liters).

Require ongoing service contract—protection ends the day Do not require ongoing contract—single treatments
the contract is cancelled or expires and bait is removed. are effective for years (periodic inspections are still
recommended).

Specific to insects (IGRs)—fewer environmental concerns. More general poisons—more hazardous to the
environment if used incorrectly.

Role in preconstruction applications uncertain. Effective in preconstruction applications.

Slower acting—require weeks or months to be effective. Faster acting—insects die in hours or days after
encountering toxicant.

Less disruptive to property to install. More disruptive to property to install.

Sharing of bait spreads toxicant through colony. Some compounds show spread through colony.

IGR = insect growth regulator.

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

Other Insects That Damage Wood in Buildings

Other insects attack wood in buildings, and their converted either to compressed pellets, powder, or
damage may be mistaken for that caused by shredded fibers. In contrast, subterranean termites
subterranean termites. The insects most commonly leave small, grayish-brown specks of excrement
involved are drywood termites, wood-destroying in excavated areas. Subterranean termite galleries
beetles, carpenter ants, and carpenter bees. follow the grain of the wood, whereas the tunnels
The work of these insects differs from that of of most of the other insects mentioned usually cut
subterranean termites in that the wood they attack is across the grain.

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

Risk Factors for Termite Problems—A Checklist

Any items checked “yes” below should receive special attention at inspections and be checked more
frequently. If possible, the problem should be corrected.

Are there…

Yes/No Cracks in concrete foundation?

Yes/No Posts in concrete?

Yes/No Earth-filled porches?

Yes/No Form boards left in place after construction?

Yes/No Leaking pipes or faucets?

Yes/No Shrubs near air vents?

Yes/No Wood debris underneath or around the house?

Yes/No Low foundation walls or footings?

Yes/No Brick veneer covering foundation? If bond fails, termites have hidden access.

Yes/No Flower planters near foundation walls?

Yes/No Wooden forms around drains?

Yes/No Porch steps in contact with the ground?

Yes/No Obstructions around heating unit?

Yes/No Paper collars around pipes?

Yes/No Trellises? Do they touch the soil?

Yes/No Rigid board insulation, stucco, or siding that extends all the way to the soil?

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

Acknowledgments

Colorized line drawings were prepared or redrawn The use of trade or firm names in this publication
by Beth Dishongh, Mississippi State University, is for reader information and does not constitute
Office of Agricultural Communications, Mississippi endorsement by the U.S. Department of Agriculture
State, MS. Photographs for figures 6 and 7 were for any product or service.
taken by Tom Murray, Boxborough, MA. Figure
22 was photographed by Tim Lockley, Mississippi
Bureau of Plant Industry, Mississippi State, MS.

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

Pesticide Precautionary Statement

Pesticides used improperly can be injurious to It is difficult to remove all traces of an herbicide
humans, animals, and plants. Follow the directions (weed killer) from equipment. Therefore, to prevent
and heed all precautions on the labels. injury to desirable plants do not use the same
equipment for insecticides and fungicides that you
Store pesticides in original containers—out of reach use for an herbicide.
of children and pets—and away from foodstuffs.
Note: Registrations of pesticides are under constant
Apply pesticides selectively and carefully. Do not review by the Environmental Protection Agency
apply a pesticide when there is danger of drift (EPA). Use only pesticides that bear an EPA
to other areas. Avoid prolonged inhalation of a registration number and carry directions for home
pesticide spray or dust. When applying a pesticide it and garden use.
is advisable that you be fully clothed.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture Forest Ser-
After handling a pesticide, do not eat, drink, or vice is dedicated to the principle of multiple use
smoke until you have washed. In case a pesticide management of the Nation’s forest resources for
is swallowed or gets in the eyes, follow the first aid sustained yields of wood, water, forage, wildlife,
treatment given on the label and get prompt medical and recreation. Through forestry research, coopera-
attention. If the pesticide is spilled on your skin or tion with the States and private forest owners, and
clothing, remove clothing immediately and wash management of the national forests and national
skin thoroughly. grasslands, it strives—as directed by Congress—to
provide increasingly greater service to a growing
Dispose of empty pesticide containers by wrapping Nation.
them in several layers of newspaper and placing
them in your trash can.

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 Prevention and Control of Termites in Buildings – C02-084

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on
the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, and where applicable, sex, marital status, familial
status, parental status, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, political beliefs, reprisal, or because
all or part of an individual’s income is derived from any public assistance program. (Not all prohibited
bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of
program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDA’s TARGET Center at (202)
720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil
Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, S.W., Washington, D.C. 20250-9410, or call (800) 795-3272 (voice) or
(202) 720-6382 (TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

33