Termite mud tube
A termite mud tube is the earthen shelter tube subterranean termites build to cross an exposed surface. Compliant barriers force the tube into the open.
Ask Chalkline about this →A termite mud tube (or shelter tube) is the earthen tunnel subterranean termites build to cross an exposed surface, typically up an exposed slab edge or down from a roof void. Termites need to stay enclosed in their moist underground environment; when forced into the open by a termite barrier, they build a mud tube to bridge the exposed zone. The mud tube is what a termite inspection looks for.
How the tube reads
AS 3660 barriers don’t kill termites; they force them into the open where the tube is visible at inspection:
- Fresh and moist = active colony.
- Dry and crumbly = past activity, possibly abandoned.
- Multiple tubes = significant activity, urgent action.
Where tubes appear
- Up the slab edge through the termite inspection zone.
- Down from roof or upper-storey wall (entered higher via bridging).
- Across smooth surfaces (concrete piers, metal stumps) where the termite can’t cross undetected.
Bridging vs visible tubes
A bridging termite found a hidden entry path bypassing the barrier. Keeping the inspection zone clear is what forces any entry attempt to build a visible tube.
For a builder
- Keep the inspection zone clear at handover. Landscaping built to the slab edge hides the tube.
- Brief owner on annual AS 3660.2 inspection cycle.
- Don’t paint or render over tubes in reno. Pest tech needs the evidence first.
Category: Termite management.
Related
See also
Last updated: 2026-05-29. Verified: 2026-05-29. Quarterly review for currency.