Termites cause structural damage as workers feed on wood. They chew wood and convert it to food for other colony members. Subterranean termites usually limit their attack to wood that is near soil. However, they may build tubes running from the soil to wood. These tubes are usually in protected basements, crawl spaces or in cracks in the foundation.
Moisture is essential for their survival.
To avoid termite infestation, do not bury wood near buildings. Remove old tree stumps near buildings. Provide drainage away from structures. Do not allow wooden portions of structures to contact soil. Ventilate crawl spaces under structures.