(OK, I know "termite proof" is a contradiction in terms)
We had been planning on putting polylstyrene insulation around our basement walls and sub-slab. However, in looking for info on making our house more termite reistant, I came across this:
QuoteIn
areas where the probability of termite
infestation is very heavy as indicated
in Figure R301.2(6), extruded and
expanded polystyrene, polyiso-
cyanurate and other foam plastics
shall not be installed on the exterior
face or under interior or exterior
foundation walls or slab foundations
located below grade. The clearance
between foam plastics installed above
grade and exposed earth shall be at
least 6 inches (152 mm).
So here's my dilema: Kansas isn't "very heavy", but we're the next one down, "moderate to heavy," and I have a neighbor who's had termite issues. Consequently, I
really want to make sure we do whatever we can to limit opportunities!
Which would you think is more important; insulation of the foundation, or termite limitation?
Why not do both. You do not have to insulate from the outside if you are worried about termites. I would do a good job termite proofing your foundation and home, if there is such a thing as totally keeping the little buggers out. Then I would insulate the foundation from the inside. I know you will loose a little space, but gain some peace of mind that you are not creating a termite super highway on the outside of your structure.
Here's a pretty good article on basement insulation techniques... and an interesting quote:
"In termite-prone areas, exterior foam insulation in ground contact
allows a path for termites to access the walls of the home undetected.
Check with local code officials to determine acceptance
of exterior foam application. Some installations will require
non-invasive termite detection systems, such as termite baits.
One of the nation's leading foam insulation manufacturers has
released a rigid foam with borate insect repellent."
http://www.ornl.gov/sci/roofs+walls/insulation/fact%20sheets/basement%20Insulation%20Technology%20fact.pdf
Here is another article with some good information: http://www.inspectapedia.com/Energy/Termite_Shields.htm
(http://www.inspectapedia.com/Energy/Basement_Heat_Loss_3s.jpg)
I've not seen the borated foam although I heard something a few years ago, anyone have a supplier?
One of the ICF specs I saw called for removing a 6" strip above grade as a visual monitoring area for mud tubes. Most houses have hidden places that cross those deserts though, a deck rim, stairway, etc.
I removed our foam at grade when I found evidence. I've found a nest 2' underground and understand they can be 20' underground. We've had mud tunnels across a new footing overnight, little varmints never sleep.
No termites here in Nova Scotia, but when I started insulating my foundation with 2" blue Dow foam this spring the field mice got to chewing it. I quickly found a product called 825PargeAll by W.R. Meadows in both Canada & US. - basically a cementitious fiber reinforced product like John shows above. Required "roughing" extruded foam so the stuff adheres - I used a stiff wire brush. Mice problem solved. It is a hard concrete product so I doubt termites will go thru it.