Best Roof Truss Installation Practices For Termite-Prone Zones
The silent killers of the wood world, termites can prey on roof trusses and reduce your hard work to rubble if you are not careful. You need to be extra cautious when installing them in termite-prone zones because the resulting damage can be very expensive to repair.
That said, there is no need to avoid using roof trusses in such areas altogether. You still can. They bring plenty of advantages. All you have to do is follow the best termite-proof installation practices.
As a reputable lumber yard with nearly 75 years of experience, at Fonthill Lumber Inc., we know how to handle the trickiest of installation situations. That is why we are here to share our knowledge with you today. Let us show you how can turn termite-infested areas into safe zones for your roof trusses.
1. Pre-treat roof trusses to resist termites
Every type of wood brings unique characteristics and properties of its own. However, their core traits can go to waste if you do not pre-treat your wooden roof trusses against termites. Untreated wood will attract termites like moths to a flame – especially in a humid climate. So if you want to keep these pesky pests out, it is best to opt for trusses that have been coated with termite-repelling substances.
2. Conduct a thorough termite check before installation
Even if your construction project is taking place in an area that is not particularly prone to termites, you must still inspect the site thoroughly before you begin installing roof trusses. A thorough scan of the site will show you if there are any hidden termite colonies you need to take care of before compromising the integrity of your entire structure. Check the soil, nearby trees, and wooden debris. If any of them show even a single termite, call pest control and eliminate the problem.
3. Use high-quality lumber only
Low-quality lumber might save you a quick buck in the short run, but it is going to cost your project dearly in the long run. Wood sourced from unreliable yards is an open invitation for termites. The same holds true for lumber that is soft and moist. Termite is not the only problem with subpar lumber. It is inherently weaker and likely to collapse under heavy loads, which is a safety hazard you cannot afford. Keep your reputation intact by relying on dense, strong, and premium lumber that has been sourced from a yard you can trust.
4. Maintain proper ventilation
This one depends on how the roof truss has been designed, rather than the actual installation of the same. You see, termites can find their way to roof trusses long after they have been installed. Fortunately, this can be prevented by designing roof systems in a way that allows proper ventilation. Well-ventilated attics can prevent humidity from setting in, which is a magnet for these pests. So make sure your trusses are properly fitted with soffit vents or ridge vents, which allow airflow and keep termites at bay.
5. Seal all gaps
Got entryways and gaps in your roof trusses? As harmless as they might look, they are pretty much an open door for termites. Gaps between joints need to be sealed properly, or they will accumulate moisture over time and turn into a breeding ground for all sorts of insects and pests. We strongly recommend using wood-specific sealants along joints and other points of contact so your trusses do not fall prey to termites.
6. Install roof trusses immediately
Once your trusses arrive from your local yard, do not let them sit idly on your construction site for too long. Especially during the rainy season. Excess elemental exposure can weaken the trusses, thus making them an easy target for a termite attack. Prioritize installation straight after delivery so you can avert this crisis.
Conclusion
Safeguarding your trusses against termites is a good idea, no matter where your construction is in Canada. While following the practices we have laid above is bound to have a positive impact, so will partnering with the right lumber yard. Based in Welland, Ontario, Fonthill Lumber Inc. is always ready to provide you with premium trusses that have been pre-treated to last a lifetime. Contact us to get trusses that epitomize durability.
