With the cost of lumber and other building materials continuing to rise, budgets for building new homes are under pressure. This can lead some builders and property owners to adjust plans and cut out steps that they consider unnecessary. While some of these cuts are unlikely to cause future problems, such as minor changes in finishes, decisions to omit site pre-treatment for termites should never be entertained. 

Why is pre-treatment necessary for new construction?

Termites are commonly found in many areas throughout the nation, especially those where damp conditions and a plentiful supply of wood fiber can be found. While most new home sites do not have termite activity at the time of construction, failing to protect the home through pre-treatment will make it more vulnerable to termite activity in the years following its completion. 

What is involved in pre-treatment for termites?

In order to be effective, treatment of new construction should begin before concrete is poured for the foundation or slab of the home. Chemicals capable of dispersing through the soil to provide ongoing protection from termites are placed in holes drilled specifically for this purpose throughout the areas where the slab or foundation will be made. 

Once the concrete is poured and construction on the remainder of the home begins, intersecting points of floors and walls and any areas where pipes are bedded should also be pre-treated as a protective measure. 

When will the property require additional treatment? 

While there can be variances based on the chemicals used and the climate where the pre-treatment is performed, most offer protection for two to five years. Homeowners will then want to begin a routine of regular termite inspections and reapplications of chemicals to provide continued protection against termite infestations. 

What else can homeowners do to prevent termites from attacking their new home? 

Homeowners who want to ensure that their newly constructed home continues to be protected against termites after they begin living in it will want to consider taking the following steps: 

• scheduling annual pest inspections to begin two years after completion of the home 
• installing bait stations for termites at risk points around the property
• keeping firewood, lumber, leaves, and other wood products well away from the home and outbuildings
• managing timber on the property to remove dead or decaying trees that could attract termite activity

New home construction contractors and homeowners can get additional information about termite prevention by contacting a pest control company in their area.