Yikes!  I Think I Have Termites!

Termites:  Small ugly bug; big force of destruction!

Termites are destructive insects which can live undetected in your home.  In the State of California, the two most common termites are Drywood Termites and Subterranean Termites.

Only only licensed pest control companies are authorized to inspect and make recommendations for correcting the problem.

Drywood Termites

Drywood termites are attracted to undecayed wood with a low moisture content, and they usually enter through a crack in your home’s exterior before boring through the wood, creating chambers and tunnels.

The way termite inspectors know you have drywood termites is by the distinct fecal matter they leave behind.

If the infestation is limited to one location in your home, the inspector may recommend a local chemical treatment.

More extensive infestations require a more comprehensive approach and most commonly a fumigation is recommended. This treatment requires vacating the home prior to the home being tented and a fumigant gas being applied.

Over the years of working in residential real estate we have become aware of alternative treatments: microwaving, freezing and the current en vogue alternative, orange oil treatment.

Before deciding how to treat a drywood infestation, we recommend that you consider the various options, and discuss these with a licensed professional inspector.

Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites are very destructive.  They are known to enter a structure through cracks in concrete and they are attracted to places that are moist.

Subterranean termites travel through mud tubes, and observation of these by pest control inspectors is an indicator that subterranean termites are present. These very aggressive termites cause extensive damage, and it is important to promptly exterminate them. Pest control operators typically recommend the injection of treatment products into the ground where the termites have been active.

Often when there is evidence of a subterranean termite infestation there is also structural damage which may need correction.

Be Vigilant with Inspections

As Realtors we routinely review pest control inspections with our clients as part of a sale transaction and we help them understand the findings and sequence and schedule the recommended repairs and treatments.

A prudent homeowner does not need to wait until selling to have inspections performed on their home. A good rule of thumb is to have such an inspection performed every few years.

If you’d like to read more about termites, Frank Reece offers some helpful articles for dealing with termites.  Or, if you need a referral to a reputable local pest control operator, please contact us.  We are happy to share our experience with you.

 

Carol & Nicole

Pictures and technical editing courtesy of Mike Judas, Franz Termite Control