Can Termites Pass Through Cement and Walls?

Many people believe that a solid concrete floor or brick wall keeps termites out. It helps, but it is not a complete defence. Termites do not eat concrete, yet they regularly get through concrete and masonry buildings. The trick is in how they do it.

This guide explains how termites pass through cement and walls.

The short answer

Termites cannot eat through sound concrete or brick, but they can pass through it by using very small cracks, expansion and construction joints, gaps around pipes and conduits, and weak or porous mortar, and by building mud tubes over the surface to bridge from soil to wood. Subterranean termites can enter through openings as thin as a hairline crack. A soil termite barrier, sealed cracks and good building practice are needed because solid-looking walls are not enough.

How they get through

1. Cracks: Even hairline cracks in slabs, walls and plinth beams.
2. Joints: Expansion joints, construction joints and gaps between slabs and walls.
3. Pipe and conduit gaps: Openings around utilities passing through the structure.
4. Porous mortar and voids: Gaps in brick or block walls.
5. Mud tubes over surfaces: Termites build covered tubes up the outside or inside of walls.
6. Wood in the structure: Frames, battens and other timber embedded in walls.

What they do not do

• They do not eat through solid concrete or metal.
• They do not need large holes.
• They do not usually damage masonry itself, though they can weaken wooden elements and cause cosmetic damage.

Why walls give a false sense of security

A wall can look sound while a thin crack behind paint allows termite access. Termites may travel inside wall cavities for a long time before showing signs on the surface.

How to block them

• Have the soil treated with a termiticide barrier during or after construction.
• Seal cracks and joints with suitable materials.
• Close gaps around pipes and conduits.
• Keep soil and mulch below the damp-proof course.
• Fix leaks that keep walls damp.
• Inspect regularly for mud tubes and bubbling paint.

What to do if you suspect activity

1. Look at the base of walls, corners and near pipes for tubes.
2. Tap suspect areas for hollow sounds.
3. Photograph signs and book an inspection.

When to call a professional

If you see mud tubes, bubbling paint or other signs, call a specialist. They can trace the route and treat the soil and structure.

Frequently asked questions

Do termites damage concrete?

Not directly, though they can damage wooden components and finishes.

Can they come through tiles?

Via the joints, cracks and gaps beneath and around them.

Is a concrete home termite-proof?

No. It reduces some risks but needs treatment and inspection.

How small a crack is enough?

Very small. Hairline cracks can be enough.

This guide is part of IPest's complete resource on termite control. For identification help, prevention and treatment options, see our full termite treatment guide for Bangalore.