DATE:      4/12/01
CONTACTS:  Dr. Pat Zungoli, (864) 656-3111, Clemson Extension
           specialist  
           Dr. Eric Benson, (864) 656-3111, Clemson Extension 
           specialist              
EDITOR:    Giles Singleton, (864) 656-3876
          
Termite worries?
Clemson has the answers

     CLEMSON -- Most people have heard the old adage, "An ounce 
of prevention is worth a pound of cure."
     When this saying is applied to termites, it is true. If you 
take preventive steps now, you may be able to keep subterranean
termites from getting started in your home.
     While there are many effective methods of treating termite
problems once they occur, the damage caused before the termites 
are eliminated may be extensive. The best ways to protect your 
home against subterranean termites are inspection and prevention.
     In a natural setting, termites are considered beneficial 
because they break down cellulose-containing materials, such as 
dead trees. However, when termites find the structural wood of 
houses or buildings, which is similar to what they find in nature, 
they become a threat.
     Fortunately, we can do many routine activities to make our 
homes less attractive to termites.
     Home and building owners should be alert to areas of moist 
or weakened wood. Termites find moist or decayed wood more attractive
than dry wood. Therefore, the most extensive termite damage is 
usually found in areas surrounding structural or plumbing leaks.
     Often dirt-filled porches are a factor in creating a friendly
environment for termites to establish. When it is possible, remove 
the dirt. Several other procedures, which help reduce the risk of
termite infestation, include:

     Remove cellulose debris in or near the structure, including 
     debris in crawl spaces, woodpiles and thick mulch. In new 
     homes, wood stakes from foundations and porches should 
     be removed before concrete is poured.

     Provide adequate ventilation in crawl spaces, basements and
     between plants and exterior walls. This prevents an excess 
     buildup of moisture.

     Eliminate any untreated wood-to-ground contact, including 
     wooden steps and support posts. Not all pressure-treated lumber 
     is resistant to termites; some of this lumber should not 
     contact soil. The tag on the lumber will specify proper use.

     Rigid or foam board insulation, when installed incorrectly, 
     can create a superhighway for termites. Termites can tunnel 
     into a structure through foam board insulation that touches 
     the ground.
     
     Also, care must be taken to install exterior insulation 
     systems to prevent moisture from being trapped around doors 
     or windows. Moisture caused by poor detailing is not only
     attractive to termites, but can also cause damaging wood rot.

     Remove dense vegetation growing close to the structure's
     foundation or siding. Heavy vegetation traps moisture, which
     creates a better habitat for termites. Shrubs, trellises, 
     and other vegetation make termite inspection more difficult 
     and block ventilation of the structure.

     Close to the structure, use mulches sparingly. Mulch is made 
     up of cellulose and holds water, which can attract termites. 
     Mulch should never be in contact with wood siding or framing 
     of doors or windows.

     Provide proper drainage: water must flow away from the 
     structure. Keep gutters clean and in good shape. Eliminate 
     areas in the landscape where water is allowed to stand near 
     the structure.
     
     When building a new home, have a termite pre-treatment by a
     licensed South Carolina pest management professional. Treatments
     may include a liquid chemical treatment (termiticide) to the 
     soil or the installation of termite monitoring/bait stations.
     Termiticide treatments around new homes are generally done in 
     two steps: after construction of the foundation footings and
     shortly after completion of the structure. Termite
     monitoring/baits stations are usually placed around the 
     structure after completion.
     
     Even structures that do not have any of the situations described
above may be subject to termite attack.  Periodic preventive treatment
with liquid or bait termiticides by a licensed pest management
professional is important for keeping your home termite-free. A
professional can provide an annual inspection and for a fee can
guarantee that your home will remain free of termites.
     In South Carolina termites are very common, but with an ounce 
of prevention, you may not need the cure.
               *********************************
     If you have gardening questions, write to PSA Media Relations,
A-101 Poole Agricultural Center, Clemson University, Clemson, S.C.
29634-0129. You might also want to check our website at
www.clemson.edu/psamedia.
                              END