Termites can be found across all of California, posing risks for homeowners, business owners, and other properties. Learn more about termites in California and what you can do to eliminate them.

About Termites in California

There are three different types of termites in California:

Drywood Termites
Dampwood Termites
Subterranean Termites

Because California homes and structures are prone to all three types of termites, residents of the area should take precautions and learn about these insects.

Termites in California stand as a risk throughout the year. Various species thrive during different times, so it’s possible to have a termite problem, whether it’s spring or winter. However, the highest period of termite risk is during the fall.

Likewise, different types of termites in California will be affected by things like rain, dryness, and temperatures. For example, the drywood termite does not need moist soil or nearby water to survive, but dampwood termites thrive in damp, decaying wood. Subterranean termites prefer soil or wet wood, but will also attack dry wood that comes into contact with the soil they’re in.

The best way to recognize a termite infestation is by a termite swarm. These large groups of flying insects take off in short stints in order to locate a mate during the breeding season. They look very similar to flying ants and will often form new colonies close to their original colonies, allowing them to spread out across both small and large areas.

All three of the types of termites in California can cause significant damage. The subterranean termites are highly destructive to various types of trees, many of whom’s timber is used in building construction.

Drywood termites, as their name suggests, are responsible for the majority of drywood damage in California. They prefer to live in and attack timber that contains less than 12% moisture content and cause slow yet severe structural damage.

Dampwood termites prefer to be near some type of moisture, but they will attack wood of all types – especially timber in direct contact with soil. They create large tunnels in various shapes and cause massive damage.

Termite Prevention

Because many types of termites in California prefer to be near some kind of moisture, one step you can take towards preventing an infestation is to eliminate or reduce moisture around your home and property. This could mean checking for leaks in faucets, pipes, and AC units and repairing rotted roof shingles.

Repairing or replacing old weather stripping and loose mortar around your windows and basement foundation may also prove beneficial in preventing termites.

Property owners should also do regular monitoring for any signs of termites, such as mud tubes, uneven or bubbling paint, and wood damage. Any wood that sounds hollow when tapped could be exposed to termites.

It’s also a good idea to create or maintain at least 18 inches of space between any soil and wood portions of your home or property. Any firewood should also be kept at least 20 feet away from the building.

Since termites in California are fairly common, homeowners might also consider scheduling annual inspections to ensure there hasn’t been any damage to the structure or foundation of their house.

Significant termite damage can be extremely expensive, so it’s best to catch the problem as early as possible. While DIY methods can help, the best thing any property owner can do to deter termites is to link up with a professional.

Take Action

For excellent termite control services, including inspections, monitoring, extermination, and protection, be sure to contact AAI today.