There are three types of foundations for homes: basement, crawlspace and slab. Some homes may have a combination of foundations. For example, a home may have a half-basement with a partial crawlspace.

Methods of subterranean termite control and prevention often involve treating a home’s foundation to help prevent termites from entering. When possible, pre-construction soil treatment is recommended, since it offers termite experts the greatest access to required treatment areas.

There are several post-construction techniques used to help reduce potential entry points and control termite infestations around a home’s foundation:

  • Professionals can apply termiticide near cracks in the foundation wall and floor. Before treatment, any cracks or gaps should be sealed with caulk.
  • Professionals can apply termiticide inside the hollow spaces of concrete block used in a foundation wall.
  • For soil treatments, termite control specialists apply termiticide to the soil around a home’s perimeter. This treatment can involve trenching, which refers to digging up the soil around the perimeter of the home and adding termite control products as the soil is replaced. Pest control experts also may use rods or drills to access the foundation and apply treatment.

What Factors Affect Foundation Treatment Costs
Typically, a foundation treatment estimate is based on the number of linear feet around the perimeter of the house. However, other factors can affect the price. These factors include the type and amount of treatment materials required and the type of construction. Because a slab foundation is the least accessible for treatment, the cost of concrete foundation termite treatment typically is higher than the cost of treatment for a similarly sized house with a crawlspace construction.

The cost to treat an existing infestation may be higher than the cost for termite prevention services. Active infestations may require multiple methods to ensure control, such as the combination of a soil treatment and direct wood treatment.

Termite Nest Under Floor in Crawl Space
image of huge termite nest in crawlspace

Related:Termite Foundation Damage