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Resistant Materials of Construction
The use of termite resistant materials of construction is becoming more prevalent in the past several years. This methodology replaces edible cellulose products lower in the structure with material that resists attack from subterranean termites. We want the lowest 4 to 5 feet of the structure to be resistant to termite attack. If this amount of protection is afforded, then the likelihood of termite attack and resulting damage is greatly reduced.
This is accomplished in two ways:
Use of “other than” cellulose products such as concrete impregnated siding.
Application of a wood preservative that eliminates the desirability of feeding on the cellulose of the sheetrock, studs, plywood or wallboard used as finish siding on interior walls. I suggest applying materials such as Timbor, ArmourGuard or BoraCare. BoraCare is used on wood products and has an ethylene-glycol base for maximum wood penetration where the greatest depth of protection is necessary. The other two materials are identical products manufactured by different vendors that will perform the same protection to the wood and paper being protected.
There has been the increased use of metal studs in the construction of homes and building recently. This has many advantages in construction and may actually save initial cost of erection. However it does not eliminate the damage termites can do to your home! Think about it now…the studs in the wall are replaced with metal, (which cannot be consumed) but the studs are covered with gypsum wallboard or plywood, that can be damaged. So the use of steel lends itself o be used with a resulting false sense of security. Even though this material is being used, many contractors still use wood attached or located near the foundation, which is susceptible to termite attack.
The use of a wood preservative such as Timbor or ArmourGuard can be applied to these susceptible materials and after dry, can be painted or papered over very easily and with little or no preparation. Click here for an application example.
Always remember that you can reduce the likelihood of termite attack…you can never eliminate it completely without very thorough treatment and use of building materials that reduce the likelihood of termite attack.
If you want to explore ways to reduce the appeal your house has to termites, I invite you to email me @ mself@killfireants.com , or telephone me @ 1-866-545-9064.
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