Live Termites Found in a Storage Garage—Why Storing Firewood Can Attract Them
Thu, Mar 27, 2025
Read in 3 minutes
A recent termite inspection uncovered live termites feeding on stacked firewood inside a backyard shed. The termites had entered through a cold joint in the concrete slab, spreading unnoticed until the homeowner moved some stored items. Firewood storage can attract termites, increasing the risk of an infestation in your shed and even your home.
Firewood is a convenient fuel source, but storing it incorrectly can attract termites and put your home at risk. During a recent termite inspection, our technicians discovered live termites actively feeding on firewood inside a shed. The homeowner had no idea they were there—until they moved some stored items and uncovered termites eating through the stacked timber.
Many homeowners don’t realise that a termite infestation in a shed can quickly spread to the main house. If timber is in direct contact with the ground or stacked against a structure, termites can move from the shed to your home, causing costly damage.
How Termites Entered the Shed Through a Cold Joint
In this case, termites gained access through a cold joint in the concrete slab—a small gap where two concrete pours meet. These gaps provide an easy entry point for termites, allowing them to build mud tubes into the shed and reach the stored firewood.
Because the shed was used for storage, the termite activity remained hidden. The homeowner only discovered the infestation when they moved stored items and found termites consuming the firewood.
Why This Matters for Homeowners
Termites don’t stop at firewood—if they’re in your shed, they could be in your home next. Even if you have a steel-framed house, termites will still target timber flooring, skirting boards, roof trusses, and furniture. That’s why proper firewood storage and regular inspections are essential.
How to Prevent Termites in Sheds and Firewood Storage
Protect your shed and home from termite infestations by following these steps:
✅ Store Firewood Off the Ground
Firewood stacked directly on the ground is an open invitation for termites. Instead, store it on a metal stand, treated timber supports, or concrete blocks to keep it at least 20–30cm above the soil.
✅ Keep Firewood Away from Your House and Shed
Stacking firewood against a wall, fence, or structure can allow termites to spread undetected. Keep firewood at least 5 metres away from your home and shed to reduce the risk.
✅ Rotate and Use Firewood Regularly
Termites prefer undisturbed timber, so avoid leaving firewood in place for long periods. Use older logs first and regularly move stacks to check for signs of activity.
✅ Check for Termite Signs Regularly
Look for mud tubes, hollow timber, or live termites in and around your firewood. In this case, termites came up through the cold joint and built mud tubes along the stacked timber. If you see termites, do not disturb them—call a professional immediately.
✅ Schedule a Professional Termite Inspection
Even if you don’t see termites, a trained technician can detect early signs of an infestation before major damage occurs. Regular inspections are key to protecting your home from costly termite problems.
Protect Your Home—Book a Termite Inspection Today!
If you store firewood in your shed, garage, or near your home, termites could be gaining access without you knowing. Don’t wait until it’s too late—schedule a professional inspection with Conquer Termites today.
📞 Call us now to protect your home from termites! 1300 417 007
We pride ourselves on delivering quality customer service and support. As a family owned and operated organisation we understand the importance of excellent service and customer care.
