If soil treatment is to be made near foundation walls by a well or cistern, what is a general best practice?

In the context of soil treatment near foundation walls, especially when dealing with areas close to a well or cistern, the best practice involves removing the soil to the footing and treating it. This approach is essential because it ensures thorough application of the treatment to effectively target any wood-destroying pests that may be present in the soil adjacent to the foundation.

By removing the soil down to the footing, the treatment can penetrate deeper into the most vulnerable areas where pests are likely to infiltrate the structure. This method significantly reduces the risk of pest activity that could compromise the integrity of the foundations and the overall structure. Furthermore, a complete treatment deems it more effective, as simply treating the surface or leaving the soil undisturbed would not adequately address the potential pest population residing deeper in the soil.

In contrast to this method, leaving the soil undisturbed would fail to eliminate any pests lurking beneath the surface, which could lead to ongoing or increased infestations. Similarly, piling the soil around the foundation could create additional pathways for pests to access the structure, increasing the risk of damage. Only treating the surface would also be insufficient, as it does not address the deeper infested soil layers that are crucial areas for pest control.