Termites cause extensive damage to buildings in Arkansas each year Costly rebuilding is often necessary to repair their damage. On the other hand, if evidence of termites is found, there is no immediate cause for alarm. It usually takes several years for a building to become structurally weakened as a result of termite feeding.
Chemical treatment of the soil around or under the foundation of buildings serves as one of the most important means of isolating a
building from termites; it provides protection from termite attack for many years. Treatment is most effective when done before and during
construction of the foundation and should be used in conjunction with good construction, not as a substitute for it. It is particularly important when using concrete slab-on-ground construction.
To meet FHA termite-proofing requirements, follow the latest edition of the Housing and Urban Development (HUD) Minimum Property Standards.
Termites
Damaged Woods
Termites are usually small, measuring between 4 to 15 millimetres (0.16 to 0.59 in) in length. The largest of all extant termites are the queens of the species Macrotermes bellicosus, measuring up to over 10 centimetres (4 in) in length] Another giant termite, the extinct Gyatermes styriensis, Worker termites undertake the most labour within the colony, being responsible for foraging, food storage, and brood and nest maintenance. Workers are tasked with the digestion of cellulose in food and are thus the most likely caste to be found in infested wood.
Termites are attracted to wood. And depending on the termite, they may be attracted to dry wood, or they may be attracted to moist wood. Termites eat wood, so it would naturally be the first thing to draw them in.
Termites are attracted to moist soil. Moist soils allows termites to thrive, staving off dehydration and death. Some termite species even use the moist soil to create mud tubes.
Termites are attracted to dark, warm places. Termites love to be undisturbed, so find the most opportune places to hide. Make sure to clean out gutters and pipes as often as possible to keep termites at bay.
By removing some of the things that attract termites, you'll stand a better chance of controlling them. Being proactive will help you learn how to keep termites away. Read on to learn more preventative measures.