Ant Capping

Ant capping is a crucial component in construction, particularly for structures with a suspended floor supported by piers or stumps, designed primarily to deter and expose subterranean termite access.

The primary function of an ant cap is not to stop termites, but to force them to build their mud tunnels (shelter tubes) around the edge of the metal cap.

1. Deterrence: The termites, which must remain concealed from light and air, are forced to expose their tunnels on the exterior surface of the cap.
2. Detection: This exposure makes the termite activity highly visible during routine inspections, allowing the homeowner or inspector to detect and treat the infestation before significant structural damage occurs.
3. Physical Barrier: The smooth, angled metal surface also makes it more difficult for termites to establish their tunnels across the cap and into the timber above.

Common Types and Dimensions

Ant caps are manufactured in various shapes and sizes to fit standard structural supports

1. Full Pier Ant Cap (Standard)

• Dimensions: Typically around (as you listed).
• Application: Used for piers that are square, round, or large rectangular stumps. The cap overhangs the edges of the pier by at least on all sides to ensure adequate exposure for termite tunnels.
• Material: Usually made from galvanised steel (Zincalume or similar). The edges of the cap are often bent down at a slight angle to increase the difficulty for termites to bridge the gap.

2. Half Pier Ant Cap

• Dimensions: Typically around (as you listed).
• Application: Used primarily for strip footings or where a timber stump/pier is right up against a solid wall or edge, meaning the cap only needs to extend out on the exposed sides. They are also used on thin concrete blades or under narrow timber bearers where a full cap is not structurally feasible.

Installation and Inspection

Installation Requirements

• The ant cap must be placed directly between the pier/stump and the bearer.
• The edges of the cap must overhang the pier on all sides by at least (or as per local building codes) to ensure termites cannot bypass the cap underground.
• The cap should be installed level and flat and must not be damaged or punctured, as this would allow termites a concealed point of entry.

Importance of Inspection

Ant caps are a deterrent/indicator system, not a complete barrier. They require regular inspection (at least annually) by a qualified pest controller to ensure that any visible mud tunnels are quickly identified and dealt with. If termite tunnels are found bridging the cap, they must be immediately destroyed and the source of the infestation treated.

If we don't have it, Canterbury Timber can source it for you. Talk to our experts for DIY advice and construction project knowledge. Canterbury Timber offers competitive Trade Prices on Timber and Building Supplies.

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