Wood Destroying Organism (WDO) Home Inspection Practice Exam

What level of protection does a monolithic slab provide against termites?

1. Most protection

2. Least protection

3. Moderate protection

4. No protection

The correct answer is: Most protection

A monolithic slab provides a significant level of protection against termites primarily due to its design and construction. In a monolithic slab foundation, the entire base is poured in one continuous piece, which means that there are fewer entry points for termites compared to other types of foundations that might have more gaps or joints. This solid structure minimizes the chances for termites, which typically enter homes through soil-to-wood contact, to access the wooden parts of the house that are often above ground. Moreover, the concrete is a barrier that termites would need to chew through, adding another layer of difficulty for them. While it is still possible for termites to gain access through cracks or during construction in the soil, the overall design of a monolithic slab offers better protection than other foundational styles such as pier and beam or crawl spaces, which often have easier access points for termites. This understanding of how a monolithic slab operates against termite intrusion is essential for evaluating the protective measures present in different types of foundations during inspections for wood-destroying organisms.