Orange County's Complete Guide To Subterranean Termite Control

There are estimated to be more than 2,500 different types of termites that exist worldwide, with at least 20 species found here in California. Termites are insects that commonly range from ¼ of an inch to one inch long, and are often mistaken for ants. In nature, termites serve an important role in the ecosystem by eating away at dead trees, and returning vital nutrients to the soil.

Most types of termites form massive colonies with hundreds or thousands of members that each assume certain duties to support the group. Among the most common found in this region are subterranean termites (Reticulitermes), which are named because they build their nest underground. Subterranean termites are one of the smallest types; these termites are also one of the most destructive.

Subterranean termites burrow upwards from their nests toward sources of wood, creating mud tubes or tunnels that allow them safer passage back and forth. At certain times during the spring and fall, the reproductive members of the colony with wings will begin congregating in swarms to begin their mating ritual.

How Significantly Can Termites Damage Properties?

Termites can rapidly infiltrate areas of wood within a property, and create significant damage that is typically not covered by insurance policies. 

In most cases, termites will begin their destructive activity from deep within a wooden structure. Therefore, property owners often will not initially recognize a problem is developing.

Some of the potentially worst outcomes involve the erosion of areas that compose the property’s foundation, or those necessary for supporting floors, that can result in dangerous collapsing incidents. Each year in the U.S., termites are believed to create more than $5 billion in property damage.

Tips For Preventing Termites

• Termites are drawn to areas with significant moisture, and prefer wood that has water damage. Limit water overflow in gardens, fix leaking spigots, and take other measures to prevent accumulation.

• Reduce excessive moisture and humidity in crawl spaces, and other foundational areas, by improving ventilation.

• Walk around the exterior of the property to detect any cracks or other openings, and fill them with a durable sealant.

• Create a layer or barrier of sand, stone, or similar material to prevent direct contact between the foundation and the soil.

Properly Responding To Suspected Pest Intrusions

Many property owners remain unaware of an invasion by termites until many months later, when the extent of the damage has progressed significantly. For this reason, a prompt response is necessary to protect the property you own and have worked hard to maintain. Many property owners take shortcuts, and afford additional time for the termite colony to inflict more very costly harm to the premises.

Some people will mistakenly attempt to search the internet for home remedies that are often simply folklore, or begin shopping at local home improvement stores for do-it-yourself home remedies. The majority of these store-bought solutions will deliver mediocre short-term results, and might contain chemical agents that pose a risk to human health and the local environment. The best option is to quickly consult with an experienced pest extermination company.

Orange Country’s Leading Pest Control Company

The trained and licensed team of professionals with Pacific Shore Pest Control prides itself on providing effective termite solutions for customers throughout the Orange County region. Part of our success stems from a commitment to total customer satisfaction that ensures that problems are solved completely and safely.

We will eliminate invasions from termites, bed bugs, rodents, and many other bothersome pests that can pose risks to property, health, and the ecosystem. Our seasoned experts will thoroughly inspect the interior and exterior areas of the property to determine the nature of the problem, propose the best available solutions, and recommend ways of preventing future pest intrusion. We look forward to speaking with you, and encourage you to contact our office today to learn more about our home pest control and commercial exterminator services.