Have a pest problem? Save $75 on your first recurring service today with code 75OFF

Sand Termite Barriers

The term "termite sand barrier" typically refers to the installation of sand around a home's foundation, concrete slabs, piers and utility entry points to help block termite foragers from entering the home.

Termite sand barriers are not common in the U.S., due to cost factors and limited availability. As sand barriers typically are installed as one part of a termite prevention and control program, your termite professional can recommend other prevention options that may be more appropriate.

Can Termites Tunnel Through Sand?

Research has shown termites are unable to build tunnels through sand when the particles are between 2.0 and 2.8 millimeters. The larger particles are too big for a termite to move, and the smaller particles fill in the spaces so that termites cannot burrow between the larger pieces of sand.

Is Sand an Effective Barrier?

As a non-toxic termite barrier, sand can serve as one component of an integrated pest management approach to termite prevention. Since sand barriers are designed to help keep termites out - not control termites once they get there - they should be used in conjunction with other methods of termite control to protect your home effectively.

Sand barriers are not recommended for all climates or types of construction. Sand barriers have been used primarily in Hawaii during pre-construction to help protect homes from Formosan termites. A few post-construction barriers have been installed in crawlspaces in California, although post-construction application is not as effective as pre-construction application. The sand should be installed as a uniform 4-inch thick, 20-inch wide layer to be effective.

Combining Sand Barriers and Termiticides for Protection

Sand particles come in different sizes, and not all sizes of sand block a termite's path. There are a few species of termites that function well in naturally-occurring loose sand. In areas where these species are active, pest control experts may recommend combining a sand barrier with termiticide application to the soil.

Termite Control

How do you know if you have termites?

Learn the signs to look for to determine if you might have a termite infestation.

Why should you be worried?

Termites cost Americans more than $5 billion in damage each year and most insurance plans don’t cover the damage.

Schedule a FREE termite inspection

We’ll determine whether you actually have termites, then discuss a treatment plan including financing that works for you.

What Orkin does

Learn what to expect from your Orkin Pro.

Resources

Dig Deeper on Termite Control Methods

Do DIY Termite Treatments Work? | Termite Control

Can Orange Oil Treatment Help Get Rid of Termites?

Microwave Termite Control

Chlordane for Termite Control

Sand Termite Barriers

Termite Poison and Chemicals

Termite Service Agreements

Physical Termite Barriers

Do It Yourself Termite Control

Termite Control Methods

Connect with Us

Our customer care team is available for you 24 hours a day.

877-819-5061

Find a Branch

Our local Pros are the pest experts in your area.

Get a Personalized Quote

We will help you find the right treatment plan for your home.

THE BEST IN PESTS.™

SERVICES

Pest ControlTermite ControlPrevent and Protect

PEST LIBRARY

Browse All Pests

CUSTOMER CARE

My AccountPay BillFind My BranchContact UsProduct Labels

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

© 2024 Orkin LLC

Terms of UsePrivacyAccessibility StatementCareers

Your Branch  

Call Now