Termite, rot and mold exposure by structural material
Which biological and moisture risks apply to steel, wood, masonry and panel structures, what controls each one, and what to ask a builder about inspection.
Termites, rot and mold are three different problems that are often blamed on the structure. Termites and fungi need an organic food source. Mold needs moisture and an organic surface. So the structural material changes some of the risk, but the whole wall build-up and the moisture control around it decide the outcome.
Exposure by material
| Structure | Termites | Rot / decay | Mold | Main other risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Light steel frame | Frame not eaten; attached boards and linings may be | Frame does not rot | Possible on linings and insulation if damp | Corrosion where coating is breached |
| Wood framing | Exposed unless treated or barrier-protected | Exposed under repeated wetting | Possible on wood and linings if damp | Dimensional change with moisture |
| Masonry | Walls not eaten; timber parts may be | Walls do not rot; timber parts can | Possible on damp surfaces and finishes | Reinforcement corrosion, cracking |
| SIPs | Depends on facing and core | Wood-based facings can decay if wet | Possible if moisture enters joints | Water at joints and edges |
Controls that apply to every system
- Keep ground water and splash away from walls with a foundation upstand and capillary break.
- Detail flashings, sills and roof edges so water drains out.
- Provide a drying path in the wall and ventilation where the design calls for it.
- Leave inspection access at the base of walls and in crawl spaces.
- Choose linings and sheathing with the moisture exposure in mind.
Ask the builder
Which parts of the wall build-up are organic? How are they kept dry? What soil or termite treatment is planned, and what does local practice require? How will you inspect the structure after handover? See also steel framing in coastal environments and light steel frame vs wood on the coast.
Where Digital Oro fits
Digital Oro International lists a light steel frame in its own material catalog: AS1397 G550 AZ150 light steel, 0.75 or 0.95 mm, zinc-aluminum coated at more than 150 g/m2, offered to Australian or American standards, with wall frames, 89 mm x 41 mm floor joists, roof trusses and insulated or elevated sub-floors. The light steel frame catalog page maps each line, and the full catalog map shows the other nine categories. The catalog gives no prices, minimum orders or lead times, so those must come from Digital Oro International in a quotation. Ask for the mill certificate and your engineer's sign-off before you rely on any specification.
Questions people ask
Do termites eat steel?
No. Steel is not a food source. Termites can still attack wood or paper-faced materials in the same building, such as sheathing, trim and some linings.
Can mold grow in a steel-framed house?
Yes. Mold grows on organic surfaces such as boards, paper facing and dust when moisture is present, whatever the structure is made of.
Does masonry rot?
Masonry does not rot, but timber parts attached to it, such as frames, floors and roofs, can.
What is the best single control?
Keeping water out and letting walls dry. Material choice reduces some risks but does not replace moisture control.
Sources and further reading
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Digital Oro International advertises on The Company Chronicle. This guide was written by our editorial team from public sources and general professional practice; it does not describe a guarantee, quote or offer from Digital Oro International. Confirm current terms, prices and availability with the operator before you decide.