Can termites live in Styrofoam?

Researchers have concluded that termites do not eat the foam board insulation but they will tunnel through it.

orkin.com - Termite Damage and Insulation - Orkin

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Sometimes, subterranean termites are found in insulation and this leads to the question as to whether termites eat insulation. The topic of termites and insulation has been well studied in university research programs in areas where termite activity is very heavy. With the increased emphasis on "green” which translates into energy savings attempts, the use of insulation in new construction, remodeling, and even commercial building has skyrocketed. Also, certain green certifications such as the US Green Building Council’s LEED program, require the use of insulation and energy savings. Further building codes require extensive attempts at energy savings. Termites are not normally found in fiberglass insulation but they are commonly found in foam board insulation, especially if the foam board goes below grade on the exterior of a structure. Foam board below grade allows a direct conduit through the insulation into a structure. Researchers have concluded that termites do not eat the foam board insulation but they will tunnel through it. Insulation also provides potential protection from predators and also retains moisture, two requirements of termites. Foam board will also insulate so that there is a constant temperature in the foam board, a condition most favored by termites.

Wall and Insulation Termite Damage

In order to prevent termites from entering a structure by tunneling through insulation, the International Residential Code, the nation’s model building code, prohibits use of foam board below grade in areas the code lists as “very heavy termite infestation” unless there is some method used to protect the foam board. This can be a physical barrier or a treated foam board. If infested, there is no way to treat the foam board and generally the foam board must be removed which is a costly procedure. Think you might have termites in your home? Schedule an appointment to get a free termite inspection from a professional Orkin Pro.

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Do I need permission to replace windows?

You should not need planning permission if you are fitting windows which are identical, like-with-like replacements. However, if the new windows differ in appearance or size to those you are replacing (for instance, different glazing patterns) you may need to apply for planning permission.

planningportal.co.uk - I want to change the windows of my flat - Flats and maisonettes

Planning Permission

The planning regime for flats and maisonettes differs in many important ways to that which covers houses. You may need to apply for planning permission to fit new windows (such as double-glazing) in your flat or maisonette. You will not usually need planning permission to add internal secondary glazing. You should not need planning permission if you are fitting windows which are identical, like-with-like replacements. However, if the new windows differ in appearance or size to those you are replacing (for instance, different glazing patterns) you may need to apply for planning permission. Local policy and interpretation of the rules covering changing windows in flats varies from council to council and you are advised to contact your Local Planning Authority for advice before starting work. If you are a leaseholder, you may first need to get permission from your landlord, freeholder or management company. If your flat is in a listed building it is very likely you will need listed building consent and you should contact your local planning authority for advice on design and materials before you start work. Works to a listed building that affect its special historic character without consent is a criminal offence. If your flat is in a conservation area and your proposals involve an element of demolition then you may need to apply for planning permission for relevant demolition in a conservation area and you should contact your local planning authority for advice.

Building Regulations

Since 1 April 2002 building regulations have applied to all replacement glazing. The regulations apply to thermal performance and other areas such as safety, air supply, means of escape and ventilation.