How to Termite-Proof a Shed
Termites are not only a threat to your home but to any sheds or garages you own as well. Termites feed on wood and weaken its structure as a result. Their population spreads quickly once it takes hold in a structure and they can devastate a wood shed in a brief time if left unchecked. Making your shed termite-proof requires regular diligence to ensure that the conditions of the shed do not support termite growth. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Remove any standing water in or around your shed. Termites are attracted to moisture and standing water acts as a beacon that attracts the termites to the shed if left unattended.
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Install gutters and downspouts on the side of the shed to divert rain water away from the wood. This also helps keep the shed from developing standing water that attracts termites to it.
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Check the shed regularly for leaks and repair any that are discovered. The dryer the shed is, the more protected it is against termite infestation.
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4
Store firewood and other wood products away from the shed. Firewood often contains termites that will then migrate into the shed if the shed is nearby. The more distance between the shed and any other wood products in the area, the better.
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Paint the interior and the exterior of the shed with a thick coat of paint. The paint helps protect the wood from termites by providing a barrier to it.
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Place termite bait around the shed to attract and kill any termites nearby before they damage the shed.
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Request a professional inspection annually to verify the shed is termite free. If termites are starting to infest the shed, immediate professional intervention eliminates them before they harm the shed's structural integrity.
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Tips & Warnings
Cedar, redwood and juniper tend to be more termite-resistant. Building your shed out of these materials also helps guard against termite damage.
References
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