Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) Home Inspection Practice Exam

What is a key preventive measure for avoiding termite problems?

1. Using treated wood in contact with soil

2. Allowing wood to rest directly on the ground

3. Ensuring untreated wood does not touch soil

4. Painting wood with insect repellent

The correct answer is: Ensuring untreated wood does not touch soil

Using untreated wood in contact with soil poses a significant risk for termite infestations. Wood that is in direct contact with soil provides an easy access point for termites, which thrive in such environments. They feed on the cellulose found in wood, so any untreated wood that is in contact with the ground becomes highly vulnerable to their attacks. Ensuring that untreated wood does not touch soil acts as a critical barrier, significantly reducing the chances of termite exposure. This preventive measure is particularly important in areas known for termite activity, helping to protect the structural integrity of buildings and other wooden structures. In contrast, while using treated wood is beneficial, it is not the sole strategy. Resting wood directly on the ground, and attempting to rely on insect repellent paint, do not adequately address the underlying risk of wood-to-soil contact, which is a prime pathway for termite infestation.