How to repair rotting door and window trims?

[Yangaz]

Hi folks, I am looking to repair the existing external trims/mouldings around the garage door and windows. The previous one has rotted away due to the weather and the sun.

I believe the prior person may have used the internal grade MDF moulding instead, as it only lasted a few years.

Questions:

1. Which product would you recommended? Could I use the pine version of the splayed moulding and external paint?

2. Would you silicon above the top moulding to stop any water build up and seeping through the top bar?

[JacobZ]

Hi @Yangaz,

I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but that is not MDF, and it is not like that because of the weather and the sun. These are termite eggs.

 

Considering there are clear signs of termites and termite damage, I would recommend you speak with a termite specialist before you consider repairs, as there may be termites elsewhere in areas where their damage could be more detrimental.

When the termite issue has been resolved, you can replace this trim with this 66 x 18mm H3 Treated Pine Half Splayed. It is important that you use the H3 variant as it is treated for exterior use and for boring insects like termites.

Yes, you would silicone the top edge to prevent water from getting into the seam behind the trim. You'd have to paint the trim with a suitable outdoor paint, then once dry, seal the seam with a UV-resistant outdoor silicone such as Selleys Roof And Gutter Silicone Sealant.

Let me know what you think, and if you have further questions, please don't hesitate to ask.

Jacob

[Yangaz]

Thanks, Jacob,

Just confirming these are 100% termite eggs? When I initially uncovered it, I did think the same, but when I googled it, it mentioned something about it being egg larvae or similar?

Do black ants typically mix with white termites? 

Thanks again

[JacobZ]

Hi @Yangaz,

It could be another species of timber-boring ant or insect, but regardless, they are the reason for the damage, and you should have that addressed before you consider repairs. If they have eaten this timber, then there's a reasonable chance they are eating timber elsewhere.

Definitely worth having it checked out.

Jacob