Principles of Termite Proofing

Asha N M [1RV06AT015]

Manali Hegde [1RV06AT032]

Ritu Susan Kurien [1RV06AT045]

Termite Proofing• Termites popularly known

as white ants are found in abundance in tropical and sub-tropical countries. They live in a colony and feed on wood and other cellulose material as food.

• The term termite proofing is used to indicate the treatment which is given to a building so as to prevent or control the growth of termite in a building.

Bridging

• It should be seen that a bridge is not formed between any part of the building and untreated soil.

Cost

• Once the termites have established themselves in a particular building, it becomes difficult and costly to remove them completely.

• It is therefore advisable to give suitable treatment of termite proofing during the construction of the building.

Drainage

• It is necessary to ensure adequate site drainage as the termites are attracted to moisture. Where possible the concrete or masonry apron must be constructed around the periphery of the building as shown.

• This prevents seepage of water to the underside of the building.

• If this is not possible, stone slabs must be provided below the rainwater pipes to help drain away the rain water.

Filling Material

• Extreme care must be taken in inspecting the filling material or debris used for reclamation of soil.

• If it contains termite colonies, the multistoried buildings constructed on the reclaimed fall victim to termites.

Floor Joints

• The suitable joint fillers or metal strips may be used to make floor joints termite proof.

Foundations

• It is not possible for termites to enter or penetrate through dense cement concrete foundations or other solid foundations.

• For such foundations, it is not necessary to start the treatment from the bottom of excavation as shown.

• It is sufficient to treat the soil upto 500 mm below ground level or upto the bottom of the plinth beam, if this level is less than 500mm. The construction of foundations should therefore be carried out with superior quality materials and better workmanship.

Method of Termite Proofing

• The method to be adopted for termite proofing should be decided while keeping in view the local conditions and materials to be used in its construction.

Site Clearance

• The site should be carefully inspected and cleared of all dead wood, old tree stumps, etc If mounds of subterranean termites are found, they should be destroyed by forcing insecticides at a number of points along them after making openings or holes in the earthen tunnels.

Superstructure

• The materials of superstructure which are easily susceptible to the termite attack should be treated with suitable preservative.

• Also, wooden members such as doors, frames, staircases etc. should be set on flooring and not through flooring.

Bibliography

• Building Construction by S.C Rangwala

• Images.google.com