NON-SUBTERRANEAN TERMITES

As their name indicates, non-subterranean termites do not have to have contact with the ground to survive. They live solely in the wood that they feed on. They are also not found throughout the United States.

There are three categories of non-subterranean termites, the dampwood termite, the drywood termite, and the powder post termite. The treatments vary depending on the type of termite and the level of infestation.

TREATMENT FOR NON-SUBTERRANEAN TERMITES

There are two type of treatments for these kinds of termites. They are either structural fumigation or wood treatments.
Wood Treatments: This type of treatment is only for very mild infestations. It requires drilling holes into the wall voids and treating the areas with a dust formulation or aerosol formulation. Both of these products are restricted use pesticides.
Structural Fumigation: Fumigation is done by covering the entire building with as airtight tent as possible. Then a gas is injected into the tented building. The gas has been either sulfuryl fluoride or methyl bromide, however, regulations may change the gases used. These gases are extremely lethal and require several days before the occupants can re-enter the structure.
Although it would seem that the wood treatment process would be the preferred method, this is only done in very mild and localized infestations. In fact, if a portion of the building that is infested has gone undetected, then wood treatment would fail. Usually, fumigation is the way to go with these infestations because it is so thorough. However, these treatments can also be extremely expensive.

Even with these treatments, dampwood termites might pose additional problems if there is wood to ground contact. Although dampwood termites do not require wood to ground contact, if it does exist, then a barrier type treatment, just like with subterranean termites, may be required.

PREVENTION

There are several things that can be done to prevent non-subterranean termite infestations:
1. All lumber, especially used lumber, should be inspected for infestation. Infested wood should be destroyed.
2. Do not use moist or moisture damaged wood.
3. All windows (especially attic windows), doors and other ventilation openings should be covered with 20 mesh non-corrodible metal screening.
4. You should consider chemically treated wood
5. Certain kinds of redwood, cypress, and longleaf pine can offer some protection
6. All cracks and crevices should be filled with putty and several coats of paint should be applied to the exterior of the structure.
If you want more information on treatments for non-subterranean termites, check out How a Professional Protects Your Home and Property
If you have any questions, please ask Pestdude!

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