California is home to over 23 species of termites, and although beneficial in the natural ecosystem for degrading woody debris and returning nutrients to the soil, termites can cause substantial damage to your property.

Most homeowners are unaware a termite problem exists until an infestation is discovered during a real estate transaction or the sudden appearance of flying insects inside the house. Keep an eye out during hot and humid summer months for swarms of small winged insects that may be house hunting in your neighborhood to establish a new colony.

Drywood termites are the most common species of termite found in SoCal, infesting dead limbs on trees, structural lumber, wood piles, decks and fences. They cut across the grain of wood leaving a pattern of chambers and tunnels, hollowing out beams and studs until they crumble.

What to look for

Look for surface blisters on wood caused by termite tunnels, or piles of sawdust-like pellets below wood framing surfaces. Remnants of translucent wings near window sills or sliding glass doors are signs you may have uninvited guests.

Take preventative measures by making sure all exterior wood surfaces are sealed and painted, and replacing water damaged eaves or fascia boards. Wood decayed by fungi is easier to eat and digest, making it an attractive source of food for termites.

Subterranean termites live a secretive life hidden behind walls, buried away in crawlspaces or under slab foundations. They require moist environments so nest in or near the soil and maintain connection from earth to wood food sources through shelter or mud tubes.

Look for the earth-hardened tubes traveling up an interior or exterior wall of a slab foundation, or in the underhouse area of a raised foundation. Prevent infestation by keeping foundation areas well ventilated and dry, and removing any wood in contact with the soil.

Detection and control of both types of termites are best left to professionals. Contact a reputable pest control company in your area. Most will perform a free inspection or charge a nominal fee around $100 for the inspection and written report.

Methods of treating drywood termites may range from local chemical treatment, heat, freezing, or tenting the house for gas fumigation. These methods do not eliminate subterranean termites because the colonies live near or below ground.

Treatment for subs usually includes applying insecticides to the soil adjacent to the structure, directly to the nests via shelter tubes, or through bait stations. Multiple colonies of the same termite species or a combination of species can infest a building.

Termite damage occurs slowly over time so catching an infestation early can save costs for control measures and damaged wood replacement.

Adriana Donofrio Podley Properties Glendora (626) 926-9700 • adrianad@podley.com