Termites in Los Angeles: Identification, Prevention & Treatment Tips
Southern California is home to two types of termites: drywood and subterranean. These termites can cause massive structural damage if left untreated.
Drywood Termites
Drywood termites get their name because they live only in dry wood and require no connection to soil. Drywood termites are often introduced to a structure during their swarming season, which in California, can be a couple times a year or more, depending on dry weather cycles. These termites enter structures through cracks, knotholes or joints in the wood. They also bore into the wood, weakening structures from the outside. These termites can be identified by their smooth, clean holes in wood structures and “kick out” holes, where small piles of wood shavings collect. Drywood termites are best treated with Termidor, Foam treatments, Fumigation, Borate and Timbor. We also recommend chemical free Heat treatments, which can be localized and applied as a spot treatment.
Subterranean Termites
Subterranean termites are the most widespread and destructive termite found in the US. These termites construct tunnels through soil to wood buried in the ground, or wood that is in direct contact with the ground. They require the soil to be moist or to have a source of water near by. They cause massive damage by weakening structural foundations and in some cases, can require a home or business owner to rebuild the structure or relay a slab. Subterranean termites are best treated with Altriset, Termidor, foam treatments and soil treatments.
Most termite species live underground. They seek moisture and position themselves near or underneath the foundation of your home. Common signs of an infestation include:
Kick Out Holes
As termites tunnel through wood, they use kick out holes to discard fecal pellets and frass.
Pellets
Termites remove waste as they tunnel, creating small mounds of fecal pellets underneath kick out holes.
Weakened Wood
Long, thin cracks and sagging can mean wood has been hollowed out by termites.
Mud Tubes
These pencil-width paths lead from the nest to your home. Check the surrounding land, outer foundation wall, any crawl spaces and your basement.
Swarms
Reproductive termites will swarm primarily between spring and early summer depending on location. Check for this type of termite and the wings they shed. Shed wings can often be found near windowsills, as winged termites are attracted to light.
Conducive Conditions
Termites are attracted to certain conditions that help assist their development. Look for wood in direct contact with soil, and high moisture in and around your home. Correct these conditions to prevent further termite entry into your home.
Get a Professional Termite Warranty
Both termites swarm in the Los Angeles area all year long. At Pest Innovations Inc, we offer a 2-year warranty on all whole-structure termite treatments. To prevent termites from returning, we also offer continuing protection plans. A technician will regularly inspect your property for termites and apply preventative treatments where necessary. Learn more about our termite control in Los Angeles and the surrounding area today!