I came across a very old bunch of papers from my grandfathers estate and discovered a couple of notes about an interesting idea. One of them stated that if one were to place a thin sheet of copper under the mudsill (on top of the concrete foundation), one would never be bothered by termites as they would refuse to cross the copper barrier.
I’ve never heard of this before. True or False?
Seems like if it is true, it would be a small price to pay for no termites.
?
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Replies
Metal termite sheilds used to be common before the days of PT mudsills.
he ones that I have seen have been galvanized.
This is still done in some areas. Termite flashing protrudes out from under the sills at a steep angle (but not completely folded over). Apparently, the termites cannot get past the overhanging lip. I have read that the must be continuous with mitered corners to work. You will see this if you tour older houses in the south.
I have also seen copper under the sills in the north to stop rising damp, particularly with absorbant brick foundations. More common was a slate course for this purpose instead.
Some copper compounds are also toxic to termites and dry rot. For instance, copper napthenate is the active ingredient in Jasco's Termin-8.
-- J.S.
Termite shield, seen it on a house that was built about 15 years ago. Made of aluminum similar to aluminum flashing, or it could have been aluminum flashing. Yes mitered corners too.
I think it acts as a physical barrier for the termites, the material doesn't really matter.
I probably fabricate 10-15 of them a year, but they're mainly for moisture. Aluminum termite shield is pretty standard here.
I invented the termite sword.