Drywood Termites (II)
There are seven known species of dry wood termites “Cryptotermes” in Trinidad and Tobago. Unlike subterranean and arboreal termites, dry wood termites do not require or like high moisture levels. Instead, as their name would suggest, they normally inhabit older, well dried, wood that has a moisture content of 3% or lower. Another way in which they differ from other termites is the size of their colonies, usually numbering no more than 15 to 20 individuals. This accounts for why it takes so long for them to do any substantial damage.
The key to preventing infestation is the acquisition of good quality lumber and the proper pre treatment with a true wood preservative. This means application to the raw, unfinished material before sealing, painting or varnishing. A word of warning, many of the products being sold as “Termite Treatment”, are just a garden insecticide diluted in a petroleum solvent. The problem with this is that while it will kill termites initially, the residual life is very short, only a few months at best, before the compound degrades. If not initially treated prior to sealing, painting, varnishing, etc. and infestation sets in, then ongoing monitoring and periodic treatments will be required.
Where Do You See It ? ? ?
(choose and click one of the following for EcTerCon natural solutions)
- In the roof
- Floors
- Door or window frames
- Cuypboards or furniture
- Mouldings and skirting boards