Termite Resistant Remodeling – Techniques and Materials
Termites are a significant issue in much of the U.S. In the Southeast, Hawaii and California, termite issues are quite serious. It would make sense to either build or remodel our houses with the intention of preventing termites rather than waiting until we have a major problem and then working hard to get rid of the problem. This article will take into account a variety of techniques and materials that may 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.
Preventative design requires keeping the property dry, controlling moisture in and around the home and allowing for easy termite inspection. Research demonstrates that most termite invasions start with wood-to-ground contact. Good design will avoid wood-to-ground contact. The next issue to avoid is moisture problems. Moist wood is a termite magnet. Be sure the soil slopes away from the structure. Reduce the humidity in crawlspaces. Design in access panels for higher-risk areas 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 widely used and quite effective. Physical barriers for subterranean termites consist of stainless steel mesh, and sand or crushed rock. Formosan termites can get through openings as small as 1.4 mm or .055 in wide. One answer is stainless steel mesh. This mesh is somewhat expensive and its usefulness depends completely on proper installation. Another solution that can work in some areas is crushed stone or sand. The particle size is vital to success. Particle size needs to be adapted for the individual termite in the area. If there are multiple subterranean termites in the area, this answer will not work.
Physical barriers for drywood termites mean that the home must be sealed completely. After the remodel is complete, use caulk and expanding foam to seal every little crack and crevice. Leaving even one tiny breach means the termites have a way in to your home. Eventually one of them will get in and create a colony.
The most secure approach to termite remodeling is to employ every possible technique and technology. Time and money are limited however. Go with the most effective techniques and materials first. You’re looking for the most bang for your buck. Get rid of wood-to-ground contact. Grade the ground away from the home. Add access panels. Spray a borate solution on open wood. Use termite resistant construction materials. Close up the remodel project completely. And get a termite inspection annually. Different states have different codes and different laws. Always seek advice from construction and pest control experts before carrying out the ideas above.
A professional inspection, and the peace of mind that comes with it, are inexpensive compared with the potential cost of damage. Call a professional. In Tampa that means Florida Bug Inspectors. We have protected Tampa homeowners with safe, effective service for over 20 years. Contact FBI today.
