Building and landscaping in termite zones

The Ontario Building Code has specifications for construction of new buildings, porches, and decks that pertain to termite infested areas. Please refer to the code for more information.

Decks and porches in termite zones

  • Decks and porches must be raised off the ground using a minimum of six inches of concrete
  • Wood elements between six and 18 inches above a ground must be pressure-treated
  • The bottom step of stair stringer must rest on concrete
  • View illustration of porch or deck construction in termite zone
  • Treat fence posts with borate rods

Retaining walls in termite zones

  • Use something other than wood for all retaining walls

Storing wood and lumber in termite zones

  • Raise and stack firewood and lumber off the ground
  • Consider using a using a metal rack, concrete pad, or patio stones
  • Place the wood in the sun away from the house

Sheds in termite zones

  • Raise wood sheds off the ground
  • Do not use a wooden floor for a shed

Fences in termite zones

  • Use something other than wood for fence posts, or support pressure-treated wood posts using metal brackets
  • Consider metal, vinyl or bamboo fences instead of wood
  • For wood fences, use pressure-treated posts supported on metal post brackets
  • For best results, set brackets in concrete

Trees and mulch in termite zones

Termites feed on wood, not bark, and they tend to prefer soft woods (pine or spruce) and faster growing hardwoods (aspen). However they will feed on virtually every type of wood.

Bark mulch is recommended for termite zones, and it tends to form a stronger barrier against weeds and retain water more effectively.

Live trees are usually not infested, but dead trees or a heavily infested live tree should be cut down, the stump excavated or chipped, and the chippings removed.

Removing wood and soil from termite zones

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