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