How To: Fight Off Termites

Termite Barriers

Physical barriers are an effective defense in the fight against termites. They are typically installed in new homes as part of the foundation. These can be strictly material barriers or contain a termiticide to kill or repel any termites that approach and attempt to penetrate the barrier.

Mesh barriers are usually made of stainless steel with holes too small for termites to crawl through and too strong for them to cut through. Mesh barriers can be installed as part of the foundation, around the perimeter of the home, under the slab, and at potential entry points such as service pipes.

Aggregate barriers that are comprised of sand or rock particles that are too big for the termites to move and too close together for the termites to tunnel through are also used under and around the foundation of a home. Granitgard uses pesticide-free concrete and road-sealing particles to keep termites out.

Plastic barriers are used around service and utility pipes within the home. These barriers are installed as part of the foundation and are often capped with concrete. Some plastic barriers include a layer of termiticide as part of the system, such as the Impasse Termite blocker system.