Is this Termite? Rebuilding a exterior wall of a bathroom


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Old 02-06-14, 12:01 PM
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Is this Termite? Rebuilding a exterior wall of a bathroom

Hi,
We were replacing a rotten bathroom exterior wall when we noticed this insect while removing the wall. Take a look at the attached picture. is this a termite?

If so what should I do. We have already build the new wall. the wall was 4 feet wide so my fear is that there are more termites around?
 
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Old 02-06-14, 12:07 PM
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I think it may be a worker termite but the pic is a little small for me to be sure. If you do a search for "termite or ant" you'll find plenty of info.

There should be an abundance of evidence in the condition of the damaged wall. Mud tubes? Hollowed out wood? Sawdust pellets?
 
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Old 02-06-14, 01:08 PM
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It is hard to tell from the photo; it’s a good photo but still hard to tell.

Search for “psocid images” and yes that is spelled correctly. Silent p.

Termites and psocids live in the same kind of environment. If this is a termite then there should be many more that should have been just as visible. Did you save the damaged wood, if any, for further inspection?

If this is a subterranean termite than it is ok to re-build the wall as the treatment would be focused on and into the soil perimeter against the foundation wall. Is there a basement/crawl under that room so you can take a strong light and inspect for mud tunnels? Take a long probe such as screwdriver and probe the sill, band boards, joists, etc.

If a psocid, then you don’t need to do anything directly but you must solve the moisture problem. Termites will require treatment and a solution to the moisture problem as well. Keep us posted.
 
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Old 02-07-14, 05:34 AM
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Sure looks like a termite to me.
termite images - Bing Images

Time to call an exterminator.
Do not close it up until they show up. Since it's open some of the treatment can be done inside with Bora Care.
Timbor Kills Termites, Powderpost Beetles in Wood
 
 

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