Reduce wood-to-soil contact around the foundation

What to Do

Maintain at least 6 inches of clearance between soil and any wood in the structure. Remove wooden lattice, trellises, or siding that touches the ground. Replace wood mulch within 6 inches of the foundation with gravel or rubber mulch. Ensure fence posts, deck supports, and porch columns use pressure-treated wood or metal brackets that separate wood from direct soil contact.

Why It Works

Subterranean termites travel through soil to reach wood food sources. Direct wood-to-soil contact provides a hidden bridge that bypasses inspection points and termiticide barriers. Maintaining clearance makes termite access visible (you can see mud tubes on exposed foundation) and forces them through treated zones.

Tips

• Wood mulch touching the foundation is one of the most common termite risk factors
• During construction, remove all wood scraps and form boards from the foundation area
• Install physical barriers (stainless steel mesh or granite particle barriers) during new construction
• Repaint wood close to the ground every few years to prevent moisture intrusion