How to Termite-Proof Your Woodshop

Termites thrive on wood, and that’s a scary thought for any carpenter. Termites are especially prevalent here in California, and there are species of drywood, dampwood, powderpost, and subterranean termites in the state. So, how can carpenters protect their shops? What’s the best way to keep termites from infesting your valuable lumber and projects? Well, that’s precisely the topic of today’s article. Let’s talk tips to keep your lumber safe and free from termites — as always, if you should encounter an infestation, you can always trust Orange County’s local source for termite treatments: Hi-Tech Termite Control.

Raise Your Lumber

First things first, you should make sure that your lumber is raised off the ground. Wood that’s resting on the floor — especially on exposed dirt or near cracks in concrete — is susceptible to infiltration from termites. Subterranean termites are especially aggressive and prolific, and a colony can devour wood by the pounds. Raising your lumber off of the floor will also keep other termites at bay. Even raising wood an inch or so off the ground could be sufficient to keep termites from locating the food source.

Take note, however, that termites swarm! Since termites fly when they swarm, even raised lumber can be accessible. Plus, drywood termites, dampwood termites, and powderpost termites all don’t require access to the ground in order to thrive. So take extra measures to keep all termite types away from your lumber.

Keep Your Environment Dry

Most termite species prefer a moist environment. Aside from drywood termites, all other California termite species require a moist environment to attain their water. Since termites build tunneled structures, moisture accumulates on the walls of their habitats; this water can be harvested to keep the colony thriving. Consider investing in a dehumidifier to keep your woodshop free from water, and make sure that your walls, roof, and foundation don’t have leaks.

Termite Control

You can take a few preventative measures to keep the risk of a termite infestation low. Consider having bait stations installed in the ground around your property. These bait stations are effective at keeping subterranean termite populations from forming on your property. Take note, you should have bait stations inspected and refreshed 3-4 times a year by a licensed termite control professional. Also, Termidor®, a liquid termiticide, can be used around the surfaces of your woodshop to keep termites out.

Schedule Regular Inspections

Get inspections throughout the year! Regardless of whether you’ve had an infestation in the past, a professional termite inspection will ensure that you don’t have a termite infestation in the future. We can provide a thorough inspection of your property, and we can give you advice on the best termite prevention techniques to keep termites away.

Hi-Tech Termite Control

Here at Hi-Tech Termite Control, it’s our duty and our passion to keep termites out of Southern California homes and businesses. Count on us for termite inspections and termite treatments, including our alternative to chemical treatments and tenting: microwave treatments! We provide termite control and inspection services for folks throughout Los Angeles, San Diego, and all of Orange County. Request a free termite inspection today, or get in touch with us if you have any questions!