What are termites?
While adult termites look similar to adult ants, they are two completely different species with completely different feeding habits. In reality, the only two things that termites and ants have in common are that they are social and live together in large colonies.
Termites feed on cellulose, and the damage they cause to wooden structures throughout the country costs property owners billions of dollars each year. The two main species of termites that homeowners living in Southern California need to protect their properties from are subterranean termites and drywood termites; each species with their own unique needs, but both able to destroy our homes!
Subterranean termites build their nests deep within the ground, and they prefer to feed on decaying or water-damaged wood. Workers leave the nest each day to forage for food, moving back and forth; they do not live inside the wood they are feeding on.
Drywood termites have lower moisture needs than subterranean termites, live in smaller colonies, and prefer to feed on sound dry wood. These termites build their nests inside the wood they are feeding on.
Are termites dangerous?
Termites live in colonies or societies that are close-knit; they work together like well-oiled machines to ensure the success of their colony. Their work ethic is part of why these pests are considered so dangerous; once they make a property into their home, they are difficult to eliminate!
The second and most important reason why termites are dangerous pests is the damage their feeding habits cause to our homes. Unfortunately, more often than not, by the time a homeowner realizes termites are present, the damage to their home is done. Termites can work for months or years without notice, feeding on and causing more and more damage every day. Termites don't sleep but work year-round to feed all the members of their large colonies.
Why do I have a termite problem?
Both subterranean termites and drywood termites can move into our homes on their own, usually while searching for a reliable food source to feed their colonies. Cracks in the foundation and exterior walls of a house often allow termites to move inside unseen. Subterranean termites also often get inside through pieces of wood, making direct contact with the damp soil.
Drywood termites can also gain entrance into a home above ground level through vents, rooflines, and gaps around windows and doors. They are also regularly introduced into homes in infested wooden furniture, construction timbers, and floorboards.
Where Will I Find Termites?
Subterranean termites have high moisture needs, and to survive, they need to have contact with the soil or mud tubes they have created. Outside, these termites are often found feeding on tree stumps, woodpiles, mulch, and fallen trees. Inside our homes, they typically attack structural wood behind walls or under floors damaged by water. Structural wood near leaky pipes, windows and doors, rooflines, and poorly ventilated areas are very susceptible to termite damage.
Drywood termites do not have high moisture needs like subterranean termites do. They can get the moisture they need from the wood they are living in and feeding on. Their nests and food sources are above the ground in dry wood like lumber, utility poles, wooden play structures, and fences. Inside, they feed and nest within floors, wood trim, wooden furniture, and antiques.
How can I prevent termites in the future?
"Better For You. Better For The Planet." Trust Pacific Shore Pest Control to solve your pest problems. On top of our pest control services, help guard your property against termites with the help of our easy to execute pest prevention tips.
- Make sure your yard has good drainage.
- Repair leaking pipes.
- Make sure your home has adequate ventilation.
- Use dehumidifiers if needed to reduce moisture in your home.
- Remove excess moisture that is building up in or around your home.
- Leave a barrier between any mulch or soil and your foundation.
Remove potential food sources for termites from your yard and home.
- Get rid of fallen trees or tree stumps.
- Remove leaf or grass piles.
- Limit wood to soil contact on your property.
- If structural wood inside your home ever becomes damaged by water, immediately replace it with sound wood.
- Inspect lumber, wooden antique furniture, and other wood items for holes and other signs of termites before bringing them inside
How do I get rid of termites?
The best way to maintain a termite-free house is to partner with a trusted, local professional familiar with your region and the wood-eating pests that call it home. At Pacific Shore Pest Control, we want to help you protect what matters most to you: your family and your home. Through inspections, the accurate identification of termites, and fumigation or localized treatments, we rid Southern California properties of termites!
Guarding people against pests, delivering eco-friendly pest management solutions, and providing exceptional customer service are our top priorities! If you live in Orange County and want to learn more about our termite control services, reach out to Pacific Shore Pest Control today!
What Pacific Shore Customers Have To Say
Pacific Shore Pest Control received an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars from 58 reviews.
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"Ricardo is always very good at what he does. Always asking if we have had any problems and to notify him anytime we do. Great work Ricardo."- Ron M.
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"Very satisfied with service. We have seen a noticeable reduction in pests around our condo complex."- Mercene C.
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"Tech was on time and very professional. He was also very respectful of property and throughout in his inspection."- Yanine F.
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"Josh arrived on time. He thoroughly treated all areas of concern and made sure to clean up thoroughly afterwards as well. Very appreciative of his help."- Nano M.
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"I'm super happy with this company! Mario has been servicing my place and is super kind, polite, and efficient. Thank you so much!"- Jen M.
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"The service was great and everything was explained very clearly. I've tried multiple companies over the years and I'm impressed with the quality of service."- Alex G.
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