How Destructive Are Subterranean Termites In Orange County?

Nobody wants to learn that they have termites on their property, especially if they are subterranean termites. This species of termite is known to be one of the most destructive types of termites in the country. If you think that you have termites in or around your Orange County home, you need the help of an experienced Orange County pest control specialist. At Pacific Shore Pest Control, our goal is to keep our customers and their property safe. We know the latest tips and techniques to eliminate subterranean termites from your property.

Signs Of Subterranean Termites On Your Property 

Subterranean termites build their nests underground and are good at staying out of sight. However, there are a few clues that they will leave behind that will alert you to their presence. Some telltale signs of termites on your property include:

• Mud tubes: Subterranean termites use mud tubes to safely travel from their underground nest to their food source. These tubes are made using a combination of wood particles and dirt. They look like thin dirt tunnels that rise from the ground and are often found against a home's foundation.
• Discarded wings: Some subterranean termites, called termite swarmers, can fly. However, they will not keep their wings forever. If you see tiny discarded wings on your windowsill or around your baseboards, then these termites have been in your home.
• Termite droppings: Termites will leave droppings, also known as frass, wherever they go. These droppings are small and resemble piles of sawdust.

Subterranean termites can multiply at an incredibly fast rate. There can be anywhere from several thousand to a few million termites in one colony.

The Extent Of Damage Subterranean Termites Can Cause To Your Home 

If you have these termites in your home, some of the damage that you will notice could include:

• Extremely squeaky floorboards
• Brittle wood that crumbles easily when touched
• Doors and windows that jam easily
• Tiny holes in the drywall that are about the size of a pen tip
• Floor tiles that become loose for seemingly no reason
• Peeling or bubbling paint

These termites are capable of causing extensive structural damage to your home or other wooden structures. It typically takes years for termites to cause severe structural damage, but the rate at which termites damage your home will depend on several factors, including the size of the termite colony. The best way to prevent damage is to schedule annual termite inspections to catch any termite activity early on. 

Natural Ways To Make Your Property Less Attractive To Termites 

Termites can invade your property when you least expect it. If you want an easy way to prevent termites from coming onto your property, here is a look at some natural ways to make your home and property look less attractive to these pests:

• Reduce moisture around your home. Subterranean termites are attracted to moisture. If there is moisture around the foundation of your home, termites are more likely to invade that area. Make sure your gutter system is functioning properly, and use splash blocks and downspouts to divert the water away from your home.
• Don't leave cut wood next to your home. If a termite senses wood, it will come to your home. Make sure to keep piles of firewood stored as far away from your home as possible.
• Reduce moisture in your crawl spaces. It is common for moisture to gather under your home. This moisture will attract subterranean termites. It is a good idea to have your crawl spaces properly ventilated. 
• Don't use mulch around your home. Mulch can make your flowerbeds and walkways look much better. However, they also can retain moisture, which makes them a magnet to termites. Consider using mulch sparingly, if at all. 

It is impossible to find a natural way to completely prevent termites from coming onto your property. However, by taking these steps, you can reduce the chances of having to deal with these pests. 

The Best Subterranean Termite Control For Your Home 

The best way to get rid of subterranean termites is to have your Orange County property professionally treated by an experienced pest control specialist. At Pacific Shore Pest Control, we take termites very seriously and will work diligently to help you with your termite problem. Call us today for a free estimate!