Termites
are social insects that live in colonies and build their nests in wood
or in the ground. They attack wood and paper because cellulose is
their main source of food.
their main source of food.
Subterranean termites form colonies deep in the ground, where needed moisture is present, and attack all types of dead plant material, paper, and wood in contact with soil. They frequently bore into baseboards, moldings, door and porch frames.
Termites attack timber anywhere in a building or home from below floor level to the highest point in the roof. Poles supporting cable must always be in contact with the soil in order for termites to attack them.
Treating Termites
Termites are treated using
termiticides. Termiticide is an insecticidal formula designed to control
and kill termites.These products should only be used by professionals
who have the expertise to apply the chemicals to the soil.
The best time to protect your house from termites is while it is being built. There should be provision for adequate drainage away from the site, elimination of stumps, roots and wood scraps, installation of screened vents in attics and crawl spaces, and insecticidal management of soil before footings or slabs are poured.