Ray Tonjes: Ray Tonjes Builder Inc., Austin, Texas

With termites a growing problem in Texas, Ray Tonjes has had to find creative solutions to termite prevention. Using pesticides is inefficient and environmentally unfriendly, he says, plus, "chemicals don't hold up very well." To protect his homes, Tonjes uses a termite barrier called the Termimesh System. This system combines a marine-grade stainless steel mesh barrier, a specially formulated bonding cement (Termiparge), and stainless steel clamps to provide a physical barrier to termites. The mesh's matrix is too small for termites to squeeze through, too hard for them to chew through, and is non-corrosive. Installation targets the entry points of all service pipes and of perimeter wall cavities. A 2-inch collar of the mesh is applied around every penetration and secured by a stainless steel clamp. "The real value," says Tonjes, "is that this is a lifetime product, and it is a green building product." * Termimesh Systems. 832.249.0556. www.termi-mesh.com. Circle 163

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