Eliminate Dampwood Termites in Singapore

Detecting dampwood termites involves recognising several key signs:

• Faeces and Droppings: Dampwood termites often use their own faeces to plug holes in their nests. If the wood is on the drier side, their droppings, which resemble coarse pellets, will typically fall straight to the ground. In more moist conditions, these droppings can become sticky and adhere to the surrounding walls.
• Wood Appearance: Inside wood that dampwood termites have infested, you may notice that it appears clean and polished. They tend to eat along the grain of the wood, especially in decaying or damaged sections, leaving a smooth, somewhat hollowed-out appearance.
• Absence of Mud Tubes: Unlike subterranean termites, dampwood termites do not create mud tubes or live in soil. This can be a distinguishing factor in identifying them.
• Visible Termites: These termites are relatively large compared to other termite species. You may see them, particularly during swarming events when they are more active.

HDB Homes: Dampwood termites are less common in HDB homes due to their typically dry conditions. However, issues can arise in units with significant plumbing problems or water leaks that create moist environments conducive to infestation.

Condos: dampwood termites are rare but not impossible. They can invade if there is a persistent moisture problem, such as from broken pipes or poorly ventilated areas.

Landed Properties: Landed properties with wooden structures or extensive landscaping are more susceptible to dampwood termites. The moisture from soil or untreated wood can attract these termites.

Commercial Buildings: Commercial buildings with wooden frameworks or stored timber are at risk. Moisture from building leaks or high humidity can create an ideal environment for dampwood termites.

Dampwood termites are attracted to wood with high moisture content. Common causes of infestation include:

• Leaky Pipes and Roofs: These can create moist conditions that dampwood termites favor.
• Poor Ventilation: Areas with inadequate ventilation are prone to high humidity, which attracts these termites.
• Waterlogged Wood: Wood that remains wet or damp for extended periods is a prime target for dampwood termites.

Dampwood termites can cause significant damage to property. They can eat away at the wood framing of a building, as well as furniture, cabinets, and other wooden structures.

Termite Soil Treatment (Pre-Construction): A non-repellent termiticide sprayed on the soil creates a barrier that prevents termites from entering and infesting your building. This anti-termite barrier is established underneath your property by drenching the soil with termiticide, which protects the building from future termite attacks. Soil treatment is typically performed before construction or as a preventive measure around the property.

Termite Corrective Treatment: Termite corrective treatment involves directly addressing the infested wood. This method includes drilling into affected wood and applying termiticides to eradicate termites and prevent further damage. Ensuring that the treated wood is well-maintained and moisture-free is essential for the long-term effectiveness of the treatment.

Regular Maintenance: Ensure proper maintenance of plumbing and roofing to prevent leaks.

Improve Ventilation: Enhance airflow in areas prone to moisture accumulation.

Proper Wood Storage: Keep wood stored in dry, well-ventilated areas.

Professional Inspections: Schedule regular inspections to catch potential problems early.

If you suspect that you have a dampwood termite infestation, it is important to have your property inspected by a qualified pest control professional. A professional can identify the type of termite infestation you have and recommend the best course of termite treatment.