For homeowners across Southern California, understanding the critical role of regular termite inspections is an essential aspect of property stewardship. As a leading pest control expert with decades of experience safeguarding homes throughout this region, I’ve witnessed firsthand the devastation that termites, a persistent and destructive adversary, can inflict. This isn’t just about protecting your biggest investment; it’s about preserving your peace of mind against these silent destroyers.

Termites Hide Themselves and Their Destruction

Many homeowners mistakenly believe a termite problem will be obvious. The truth is, these pests are masters of discretion. They work tirelessly from within your wooden structures, often leaving little external evidence until significant damage has already occurred. This covert nature is precisely why proactive and professional inspections are paramount. Our goal during an inspection is not just to find existing infestations, but to identify conditions conducive to future activity, offering a comprehensive shield against potential harm.

When our certified inspectors arrive at your Southern California home, they embark on a meticulous journey, far beyond a cursory glance. We understand the nuanced behaviors of the two primary termite types prevalent here: subterranean and drywood. Each demands a distinct approach in detection.

Common Types of Termites

Subterranean termites, as their name suggests, live in vast colonies underground, constructing intricate mud tubes to travel from their soil nests to your home’s wooden components, seeking moisture and food. Our inspectors will painstakingly examine your home’s foundation, looking for these tell-tale mud tubes climbing from the soil onto concrete slabs, foundation walls, and piers. We’ll delve into crawl spaces, basements, and around exterior perimeter areas, scrutinizing any wood-to-soil contact points, which are prime entry routes. We also pay close attention to areas with moisture, such as leaky pipes, clogged gutters, or poor drainage, as moisture is a major attractant for these underground invaders. We even investigate utility penetrations, where pipes and wires enter the home, as these often provide hidden pathways.

Drywood termites, on the other hand, require no ground contact. They establish colonies directly within the wood itself – your framing, attic trusses, fascia boards, and even furniture. Their presence is often revealed by tiny kick-out holes from which they expel their distinctive, hexagonal fecal pellets, often resembling fine sawdust. During an inspection, our experts will methodically tap and probe exposed wood for hollow sounds or softness, indicative of internal galleries. We’ll climb into attics, carefully inspect rafters and roof decking, and examine window sills, door frames, and any other wooden elements, inside and out. The sheer scope of this examination ensures no stone, or rather, no piece of wood, is left unturned.

Beyond these visual cues, our inspectors are also trained to recognize subtle changes in the environment that suggest termite activity. This includes faint sounds of rustling or chewing coming from within walls, the presence of discarded wings after a swarming event, or even slight buckling of paint or wallpaper. We also consider factors specific to Southern California homes, such as mature landscaping close to the structure, which can provide hidden pathways, or shaded, moist areas where termites thrive.

Termite Inspections in the Escrow Process

Destructive organism reports have become an indispensable element of the real estate escrow process. This necessity stems primarily from the significant financial risks associated with undetected termite activity and the stringent requirements imposed by financial institutions. Lenders, including those for VA, FHA, and conventional loans, routinely mandate these inspections to protect their substantial investments in the property, ensuring the collateral is structurally sound and retains its value. For buyers, the inspection serves as a critical safeguard against inheriting costly, hidden structural damage that homeowners’ insurance typically does not cover. For sellers, a proactive inspection can streamline negotiations, mitigate potential legal liabilities, and enhance the property’s market appeal, ultimately facilitating a smoother and more equitable transaction for all stakeholders.

How Often to Inspect

The question of “how often” is frequently raised. Given the year-round activity of termites in our region, we strongly advocate for annual professional inspections. This proactive measure allows us to detect and address any signs of activity in their earliest stages, before a minor issue escalates into a costly structural nightmare. Early detection means less damage, less extensive treatment, and ultimately, significant savings and greater peace of mind for you.

Following a thorough inspection, our team provides a comprehensive report detailing our findings. This isn’t just a simple “yes” or “no” answer; it’s a detailed account of any current or past termite activity, potential entry points, and conditions that could invite termites. Crucially, the report will include clear, actionable recommendations tailored to your specific situation. This might involve localized treatments, full structural fumigation, or even suggestions for moisture control and landscape modifications to create an environment less hospitable to these pests. Our commitment extends beyond just treatment; we aim to educate and empower homeowners to maintain a termite-free environment long-term.

In Southern California, maintaining your home means proactively addressing the threat of termites. A professional termite inspection is your best defense, offering not just detection, but also the expert insight and guidance needed to protect your most valuable asset from these persistent and destructive silent invaders. Don’t wait for the signs of damage to become undeniable; act now to secure your home’s future. Call us at 909-335-1486. We have solved termite problems across the Inland Empire for more than 30 years!

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Termites are a significant threat to homeowners in the Inland Empire. These wood-destroying insects thrive in the region’s warm, dry climate, causing extensive damage to homes and businesses. If you suspect a termite infestation, finding a qualified termite exterminator is crucial. This post provides an overview of termites in Southern California, their destructive potential, the cost to insurance companies, and what to look for when choosing Craig & Sons as your termite extermination solution.

Termites in Southern California: A Persistent Threat

Southern California’s climate provides ideal conditions for several termite species, including:

• Drywood Termites: These termites live entirely within dry wood, such as structural timbers, furniture, and even dead trees. They create small, dry fecal pellets (frass) that are often the first visible sign of infestation.
• Subterranean Termites: These termites live in the soil and build mud tubes to reach wood sources. They require moisture and are often found in areas with damp soil or poor drainage.
• Dampwood Termites: These termites prefer damp, decaying wood and are typically found in areas with high moisture content, such as rotting logs or water-damaged structures.

The Destructive Power of Termites

Termites are known for their ability to cause extensive structural damage before homeowners even realize they are present. They feed on cellulose, the main component of wood, weakening structural beams, floor joists, and wall studs. This can compromise the integrity of a building, leading to costly repairs and even structural collapse. Termites often work from the inside out, consuming wood from within while leaving the outer surface intact. This makes it difficult to detect infestations until significant damage has occurred. The cost of repairing termite damage can be substantial, often requiring extensive reconstruction and replacement of damaged wood. Termite damage can significantly reduce a property’s value, making it difficult to sell or refinance.

The Financial Burden on Insurance Companies

Termite damage is generally not covered by standard homeowners insurance policies. This is because termite infestations are considered a preventable maintenance issue, similar to roof leaks or plumbing problems. However, the indirect costs associated with termite damage can still impact insurance companies. If termite damage leads to structural collapse or injuries, insurance companies may face liability claims. The prevalence of termite damage in a region can contribute to higher insurance premiums for all homeowners, even those who have not experienced termite problems themselves. Disputes between homeowners and insurance companies regarding termite damage can lead to costly litigation.

Finding a Qualified Termite Exterminator

Choosing the right termite exterminator is crucial for effective treatment and prevention. Craig & Sons Termite & Pest Control has termite in our name for a reason. We have been ridding properties in Riverside and San Bernardino Counties of termites since 1991. We carry the licences, training, and experience to protect your home or business. We have hundreds of reviews on Yelp and Google. Our team of experts can even help with termite evaluations for escrow inspections. Our work is guaranteed and warrantied for your peace of mind and because we are extremely confident in our abilities.

Protecting Your Investment

Termites pose a significant threat to Southern California homes. By understanding the risks, knowing what to look for in a termite exterminator, and taking proactive steps to prevent infestations, homeowners can protect their investment and avoid costly repairs. If you suspect a termite problem, don’t hesitate to contact our office at 909-335-1486.

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Over the years many of us have moved to more natural remedies for cleaning our homes and dealing with pests. While some changes are beneficial and achieve the desired results, the use of orange oil in the termination of termites has been found to have its pros and cons. Some will say that termites can easily be treated with orange oil without the aid of a professional pest control company, however, research shows it is not as easy a solution as one might think.

Where does orange oil come from?

Orange oil is exactly what it states it is – the oil from an orange. This oil is contrived from the peel of the orange typically through a cold-press process. There are orange oils on the market that are made for consumption, cleaning, and everyday use and then there is orange oil that is specifically created for the process of fumigation. Contrary to what you might believe the orange oil that you use in cooking, or your diffusers is not what researchers have tested on the termination of termites in their labs.

What about orange oil affects termites?

D-Limonene is the active ingredient that is obtained from the extraction of orange oil. D-Limonene has the ability to melt or dissolve the chitinaceous exoskeleton (the outside) of the termite. This causes a lethal loss of proteins and water for the termite, which will ultimately lead to its demise.

So, what is the fuss about?

Since the D-Limonene in orange oil will effectively kill the termite upon contact the key to success with orange oil is localized treatment. Detection of the exact area the termites are living in is a must, as the D-Limonene must come into direct contact with the termite for the treatment to work. This means that the oil must be injected into the active hollow spaces where the termites are feeding. This can be quite difficult when trying to locate termites within the wall of the house, and not many of us would be willing to tear down our walls to pinpoint the exact locations of the termite colony.

But doesn’t it work as a fumigant?

A very valid question with a very simple answer: no, it really does not. A fumigant form of orange oil treatment is not available in the United States. There is no proof that orange oil works by fumigation. Orange oil does not leave a residue or linger once used, so it must directly contact the termite’s body in order to accomplish its goal.

So how do I get rid of my termites using a safe method?

Fortunately, here at Craig & Sons we offer both eco-friendly and traditional methods for your termite issues. We use a variety of methods available in our treatment of termites to give every homeowner the flexibility to choose their preferred treatment method. If you would like to learn more or would like to schedule an appointment contact us and we will be happy to come evaluate your pest issues for you and discuss best courses for removal.

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Termites are nasty, wood-eating insects that you never want to find in your home or yard. If you live in California where termites are unfortunately common, you probably know the basics about these pests ― what they look like, what damage they cause, and how to detect them. However, if you’re a scientifically minded person, you’ll probably find this more in-depth, scientific look at termites interesting.

How Did Termites Evolve?

Termites are old – in two ways, actually. Their queens are the longest-living insects in the world, sometimes living up to 50 years .

Termites are also old in an evolutionary sense. Some researchers believe that they evolved from a species of wood-eating cockroaches nearly 250 million years ago, during the Permian  period. Some dispute this claim and believe older fossil evidence suggests termites originated much later – during the Jurassic or Triassic period.

Since appearing on earth, termites have been a very successful group of insects. Although most species prefer tropical environments, you can find termites on every continent except for Antarctica. They’ve developed complex, social colony structures that allow them to work together for the advancement of their kind.

How Are Termites Related to Each Other and Other Insects?

All termites are animals that belong to the class Insecta, order Blattodea, and infraorder Isoptera. The order Blattodea also contains cockroaches, meaning that cockroaches and termites are closely related.

Within the infraorder Isoptera, seven families of termites exist:

Mastotermitidae: These primitive termites are in Australia and New Guinea and are very similar to cockroaches.

Termopsidae: Measuring up to 25 mm in length, these large termites dine on damp wood. The Pacific dampwood termite belongs to this family.

Hodotermitidae: These termites actually harvest grass, not wood, and dwell in India, the Middle East, and Africa.

Kalotermitidae: Drywood termites belong to this family; more than 400 species are found worldwide.

Rhinotermitidae: This family contains the subterranean termites, which build their nests in soil and are quite common (and destructive) across the U.S.

Serritermitidae: This is another family of subterranean termites; they are only in South America.

Termitidae: These beneficial termites do not destroy human-built structures and are quite important to desert ecosystems.

Keep in mind that each of these families contains multiple – sometimes hundreds – of different species. Approximately 3,100 known species of termites exist, in total.

How Do Termites Digest Wood?

The idea that termites can sustain themselves dining only on wood is pretty remarkable. What’s even more amazing is that the termites don’t actually digest the wood. Rather, tiny protozoan organisms living in the termites’ guts do all the work.

Cellulose, the main component of wood, has sugar molecules connected in a chain-like manner. Protozoans break the bonds between the individual sugars in the cellulose chain, and the termites are then able to absorb and utilize the sugars.

Without these protozoans living in their guts, termites would be unable to survive. The adult termites excrete the protozoans in their feces, and the termite larvae ingest those feces, thereby introducing the protozoans to their own digestive tract. Each time termites molt, they must ingest more feces from another termite in order to introduce more protozoans to their system.

The relationship between termites and these protozoans is best described as mutualism. Each species needs the other for survival.

The next time you come across a termite, you’ll probably be dismayed at the threat the insect places on your building. But hopefully, you also feel a small sense of awe for this innovative insect and the way it has managed to survive on the earth for so long.

Contact the experts at Craig & Sons Termite & Pest Control, Inc., if you have any lingering questions about termites or think you may have some on your property.

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Termites can wreak havoc on the wooden structures in your home, leading to structural damage and a decline in appearance. One consequence of termite infestations that people don’t often talk about, however, is frass — or termite droppings. Anyone who lives in an area where termites are common should know the basics about frass, how to identify it, and how to clean it up.

What Is Frass?

Because termites consume wood, frass is mostly wood. It tends to take on the color of the wood the termites are consuming. If they are eating a pale wood, like pine, the frass will be a lighter brown in color. If they’re eating a darker wood like red oak, the frass may be the color of coffee grounds. 

Frass looks like tiny pellets; if you look at them closely, you will notice that they are six-sided. Frass is dry to the touch, and some people do mistake it for sawdust or dirt. 

Where Do You Find Frass?

Termites produce frass as they are burrowing through wood and consuming it. They kick the frass out of the wooden structure, so it piles up on the floor by that structure. Common places to find frass are underneath window and door frames, along baseboards, and at the edges of porches. If termites are feeding on ceiling structures, the frass will often fall scattered onto the floor below where you may sweep or vacuum it up without noticing. 

What Kind of Termites Create Frass?

If you are seeing frass in or around your home, you have a type of termite called drywood termites. These are different from the subterranean termites that live below ground and emerge to feed on moist wood. 

Drywood termites will feed even on wood that is in great condition. They build their nests inside the wood, too. Because they don’t need moisture to thrive, they can often be found in attics and ceilings — places where you would not ordinarily find subterranean or dampwood termites.

Drywood termites can cause serious structural damage, so if you see frass and think you may have these pests in your home, you need to contact an exterminator immediately. Depending on the extent of the infestation, your exterminator may fumigate the home or spot-treat the infested wood.

Is Frass Harmful?

In the meantime, while you are awaiting extermination, you may wonder how dangerous the frass itself is. Luckily, unlike rodent droppings, termite droppings are not known to spread any infectious diseases. They can, however, cause allergy symptoms in some people. Touching the frass directly may make your skin itchy, or you may develop respiratory symptoms if you inhale frass particles.

How Should You Clean up Frass?

Before you clean up frass, put gloves on to protect yourself. A face mask is not necessary but can be a nice addition, especially if you have known allergies. Since the frass is pretty dry, you can typically vacuum or sweep it up. Then, give the area a once-over with an all-purpose cleaner for good measure.

Once an exterminator works on your home, keep your eyes out for additional frass. Clean the area regularly so that you can easily tell if more frass appears. If the frass stops appearing, it’s a good indication that the insecticides have effectively killed the termites. 

Although frass itself is not as dangerous as rodents or even cockroach droppings, its presence is an important alert of a termite infestation. If you have found what you think to be frass in your home, contact Craig & Sons Termite & Pest Control, Inc. We’ll use eco-friendly and traditional methods to destroy a termite infestation and save your home from future damage.

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1. Give Yourself Some Space

2. Eliminate Excess Moisture

3. Relocate Your Wood Pile

4. Get Rid of Dead Trees

5. Seal Your Decks and Fences

6. Schedule Annual Inspections

The post 6 Steps to Take to Protect Against Termite Infestations appeared first on Craig & Sons Termite & Pest Control.

Many species of insects fly in groups to seek out new locations to colonize, including termites. If you see spring-swarming, winged termites, you may wonder if termites have infested your dwelling.

A termite swarm on or near your property doesn’t necessarily mean there termites are chewing your home’s framing — they could settle down and nest nearby instead of in your home. However, you should take action if you notice swarms inside or your house. Do these three things right away.

1. Make Sure They Aren’t Really Just Ants

Swarming ants and termites look very similar. Both insects have two sets of wings and slim bodies. However, there are some key differences in the two insects during their reproductive phases.

• Ant reproductive
  • Forewings are larger than rear wings
  • Antennae have 90-degree bend
  • Body has slim waist
• Termite Reproductive
  • Both wing sets are equal size
  • Antennae are straight or droopy
  • Body has broad waist

Ants may pose problems in your home and landscape, but they don’t cause the destruction that termites do. If you’re unsure about whether ants or termites are swarming in your home, contact one of our technicians for an inspection.

2. Try to Identify the Type of Termites

If you’re sure you’ve found swarming termites, look for other signs around your home to determine what type of termites they are. Three basic types of termites that infest homes:

• Subterranean
• Drywood
• Dampwood

Subterranean termites are the smallest termites and the most destructive. They live and breed underground where you can’t see them. They create tunnels up to dead wood in your home or yard and then feast on the structure. Look for tell-tale tubes coming up from the soil around your foundation or crawl space.

Drywood termites are medium-sized, above-ground nesting termites that chew on sound wood including deck posts, fencing, and furniture. Unlike dampwood and subterranean termites, drywood termites can survive in arid conditions. They chew to create tunnels across the grain of wood and often leave behind fecal matter at the end of their tunnels.

Dampwood termites are the largest type of termites. They prefer to live and eat in moist wood like tree stumps, falling trees, or floor joists that are exposed to wet soil. Dampwood termites create open galleries in wet wood and may be found in wood close to a leak or drainage problem. Coastal areas may see more dampwood termite damage.

3. Enlist the Services of Qualified Pest Control Professionals

The complexity of your home’s termite treatment depends on the type of termite problem you have. The most important thing to remember is that this type of pest control is not a DIY endeavor. Treatment for subterranean termites is far more involved than simply spraying the surface of wood.

Your home may need trenching along the foundation and chemical treatment inside confined spaces. In some cases, up to 100 gallons of California-approved chemicals will be used to stop a termite infestation. These treatments must be done correctly while wearing proper protective gear.

California laws strictly regulate pest control companies who provide termite treatments. When you call Craig & Sons, you will receive service from a certified professional in compliance with the law. We follow all safety procedures to keep you and your family safe while protecting your home from termite damage.

Contact Craig & Sons Termite & Pest Control, Inc., today to schedule a complete termite inspection of your residence. We offer expert termite treatment as well as moisture-control services to clean up termite-attracting spots around your property. If you get in touch with us as soon as you notice signs of termite infestation, we can prevent damage to your home and save you money in repairs.

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Homes in California are at risk to have damage from different types of termites. Experts divide termites into two categories: drywood and subterranean (also known as damp wood termites).

If you are a homeowner, being aware of the different types of termites and the differences between the two is helpful for protecting your home. Knowing what they look like, where they live, and what to look for to know if they are on your property can help you decide when you need help from a pest control professional.

Food and Moisture

Drywood termites require little moisture in order to survive, while subterranean termites require a lot of moisture. Both types of termites consume cellulose from wood. Both types of termites will take moisture from the wood they consume, but drywood termites consume wood that has a lower amount of moisture.

Subterranean termites prefer underground wood because it contains more moisture than above ground wood. These termites also like to stay close to the soil because of its moisture.

Habitat

Subterranean termites typically enter the home through the soil. You can find them in floorboards and walls in the basement or at ground level. Drywood termites often enter the home through infested furniture. You can often find them in the attic and the upper levels of the home.

Both live in colonies, but drywood termites have small colonies and subterranean termites have large colonies.

Evidence of Infestation

Infestation evidence varies between the two types of termites.

Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites build covered pathways, called mud tubes, to convey moisture and nutrients from one location to another. Mud tubes give the termites a sheltered place to walk. Mud tubes are about the width of a pencil and have a low profile. You can usually find mud tubes on the exterior foundation of the home. Sometimes you can also see them on the walls inside your home.

Subterranean termites can also produce visible wood damage. In floorboards, for example, subterranean termites will eat the core wood, leaving behind a paper-thin outer surface. In some areas, the termites may break through the surface of the floorboards, producing small holes.

Drywood Termites

Drywood termites produce piles of wood-colored feces called frass. Drywood termites expel frass from wood by creating little kickout holes. Feces piles can be evidence of a current or previous drywood termite infestation. Drywood termites also produce swarms in warm and wet weather.

Prevention

Termite prevention is much the same regardless of the type of termite. Some of the most effective ways to prevent subterranean and drywood termites include:

• Store woodpiles away from the home.
• Keep the area around the home’s foundation free of mulch.
• Repair plumbing leaks as soon as they occur, and replace rotten wood.
• Remove dead tree stumps from the yard.
• Have a professional inspect your home regularly for termites and termite infestation.

Protect your home by having the professionals inspect your home for signs of termites and treat your home with chemicals designed to kill termites. Many termite chemicals are preventative and thus will protect the home for years after they are applied. This is especially important in neighborhoods where you have discovered termites, since many termites will infect more than one house at a time.

Contact Your Pest Control Experts

For more information about the differences in the two types of termites and for information about how you can protect your home from termites, contact Craig & Sons Termite & Pest Control, Inc. We’re happy to answer homeowner questions about termites and how you can prevent against them in your home. We’re also happy to inspect your home for signs of termites. Call us now.

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Inland Empire homeowners face many challenges in the quest to maintain their homes. Termite infestation is a leading cause of home damage – ranking ahead of fire, flood, and high winds.

Termites are so destructive because many property owners believe the myths and ignore early warning signs of termite colonies. Every homeowner in California should understand the truth behind the myths. Here are three facts to set the myths to rest.

1. Every Season Is Termite Season in California

Some people think that termites are most active in springtime. They fail to have their homes inspected and treated in winter months because they believe that termites are dormant.

In California, termites can be active all year round. They forage away from the colony, so winter makes food-seeking difficult in cold climates. In much of sunny, warm cities like Riverside and Redlands, termites can feed year-round from food sources close to your home.

Termites may swarm in spring, summer, or autumn. Swarming indicates a colony is branching out to create new colonies. In warmer winter environments like that of Southern California, pairs of king and queen termites may fly into basements and start breeding when a nearby colony has reached capacity.

If you suspect termites are chewing up your wooden structure, call us immediately. Winter, Spring, Summer, and Autumn are all the right seasons when it comes to protecting your home from termite damage.

2. You Can’t Tell on the Surface When Wood Is Infested

Some types of termites don’t advertise their presence by making glaring holes in your floor joists and support beams. In fact, they put up a great false front as they’re nibbling your home’s wooden components to bits.

A heavily infested wooden board or post can appear to be perfectly strong and stable on the outer surfaces. The termites burrow behind the facade to process the wood in endless tunnels and pathways.

There are signs to look for, and every homeowner in the Riverside area should become familiar with them. The signs vary depending on the type of termite invasion you encounter.

Subterranean termites are dark brown to black with brownish wings when mature. Soldiers and workers are caramel colored. These tiny termites are very destructive. They live in the soil under rotting wood and structural timber.

Look for signs of subterranean termite infestation including:

• Tubes heading from the ground up
• Tubes on concrete and other materials
• Tubes dropping from joists and pipes
• Damage to softer springwood
• Hollow sound when wood is thumped
• Damage done along the grain of wood

Drywood and dampwood termites are two other types of termites found in California. Dampwood termites mostly attack rotting wood in coastal regions or areas of high humidity.

Drywood termites are found throughout the state and attack sound wood of all types. Drywood termites remain above ground, so you won’t see any tubes. You will see a waste product called frass in areas of heavy infestation. Frass looks similar in color and texture to sawdust.

Other signs of drywood termite infestation include:

• Feeding damage cuts across grain of wood
• Cracks in paint and foundation
• Blistering of wood window and door sills
• Discoloration or darkening of wood
• Piles of wings from swarming termites

A Craig & Sons qualified and licensed termite-control specialist will come and make a positive I.D. to determine the best treatment for the type invading your space. Your vigilance in keeping an eye out for termites is an important step in the eradication process.

3. Termite Control Is an Ongoing Maintenance Concern

There are several ways to control termites in your home or on your property. Pest control specialists use methods including:

• Whole-house fumigation
• Whole-house heat treatment
• Spot treatment with pesticides
• Spot freeze treatments with liquid nitrogen
• Local electrical current and microwave treatments
• Injections of chemicals in wood and soil

Your pest control specialist is the best source to learn more about preventing and treating termite invasions. Together, set up an integrated pest management (IPM) system on your property to repel pests of all types. Contact our office to schedule your termite inspection soon.

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There are many insects that can be particularly annoying, but termites can do a lot of damage to your home, often without you even realizing it until significant damage has been done. Because of this, it is important that you know what attracts termites to your property and home so that you can put preventative measures into place and avoid the need for repairs down the road.

In addition, it is important to be able to recognize the signs of a termite infestation. This way, you can contact a professional termite control company to come out and take care of the problem before it gets too far out of hand.

What Attracts Termites?

Here are a few different things that tend to attract termites to homes and ways you can make your property a bit less prone to these insects:

1. Stacks of Wood Near the Home

Even though we don’t have much a traditional winter here in the Inland Empire, many of us still enjoy the smell and sound of a fire in the living room. Do you chop and stack firewood? Most people stack the wood against their home, or at least in an area very close to the home for easy access. Unfortunately, you have just provided a buffet for termites to eat.

Termites use wood as an entry point to your home. For that reason, it is important that you keep any woodpile a minimum of 20 feet away from your house. In addition, you should try to keep the stacks of wood raised off of the ground several inches. Don’t forget to brush off firewood before bringing into your home.  

2. Inadequate Gutter Drainage

Your home’s guttering system is important in a number of ways. When maintained properly, it helps to ensure that rainwater doesn’t accumulate on the roof, prevent the buildup of ice dams, and helps to prevent termites.

The way that your gutters help to prevent termites all has to do with moisture. Moisture is one thing that attracts termites. Therefore, when your gutters become clogged with leaves, twigs and other debris, water tends to build up inside the gutters and ends up creating the perfect environment for termites.

With that being said, it is important that you conduct regular maintenance on your gutters to ensure that water is properly flowing through the gutters and that no clogs are forming. You also want to ensure that that rainwater is properly diverted away from your home’s foundation with splash blocks and downspout extenders.

3. Old Tree Stumps

It has already been mentioned that stacks of firewood can attract termites. However, it isn’t just fresh wood that can attract termites, as old wood can as well. Old rotting wood is going to quickly bring termites to your property and essentially invite them into your home.

So, if you have any dead trees that you have cut down or old tree stumps in your yard, it is time to do something about it. You can either remove these yourself or hire a service to do it for you.

How Do You Know When You Have a Termite Infestation?

There are many ways in which you can determine whether or not you have a termite infestation. In many cases, it will depend on the type of termites that you are dealing with. However, as a general rule, you will be dealing with some basic signs.

For example, termites eat wood, so this is going to be an obvious sign of an infestation. The wood will sound hollow if you knock on it, and wood tends to buckle up. You may also notice bubbling in your paint. Keep in mind, however, that this could also be a sign of water damage rather than termites.

Outside of your home, near the foundation, one species of termites like to build mud tunnels to travel back and forth from its food source and its colony, so be on the lookout for these. Most common species in the Redlands or Riverside areas leave piles of droppings that are speckled  brown and black.

If you believe you have a termite problem, contact us to request an appointment. 

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