Termites

What Are Termites?

There are two types of termites common in California, subterranean and drywood termites. Both of these species are destructive, but there are significant differences between them.

Subterranean termites need a lot of moisture, so they live underground and create mud tubs out of wood and soil to travel between their nest and a food source. They only consume the soft parts of wood and are attracted to water-damaged or rotting wood.

Drywood termites don't have the same moisture requirements as subterranean termites. This type of termite gets all the moisture they need from the wood they consume. Drywood termites eat both the soft and hard parts of the wood.

In addition, subterranean termite colonies are much larger than drywood colonies and composed of hundreds of thousands of individuals.

Are Termites Dangerous?

As mentioned, termites can cause expensive damage, but the damage they cause can also be dangerous. Depending on how long termites have been present, they can create damage that leads to collapses and other structural weaknesses. Also, because subterranean termites are attracted to water-damaged wood, which is susceptible to mold, they can cause mold spores to spread.

Why Do I Have a Termite Problem?

While older homes are more at risk of termite problems, newer homes can also experience them, especially after dealing with a leak, flood, or other moisture issues.

Drywood termites are known to infest during the building process and through used furniture, so it is essential to take the proper steps to ensure this doesn't happen to you.

Where Will I Find Termites?

Subterranean termites live underground and use mud tubes to travel, so you may be able to see mud tubes around your home's foundation where they have found a way into the house. As for drywood termites, you can find them in attic framing, inside walls, and hardwood floors.

How Do I Get Rid of Termites?

When dealing with termites, it's essential to get professional assistance for several reasons, including proper species identification and damage assessment.

Compass Pest Management can assist you with your termite problem by first performing a free inspection to identify signs of these pests, like mud tubes and wood shavings near the foundation, on walls, ceilings, and near plumbing and other typical termite hot spots. We also look for conducive conditions that invite these pests to your property.

After the inspection, we will provide a quote and propose a control plan to manage your termite problem. Once you approve our treatment plan, we will implement a protective barrier and other necessary methods. Usually, treatment takes four hours but can vary depending on the situation.

Our termite control services come with a two or five-year warranty, during which we will return for annual inspections to ensure your termite problem has not returned.

Call us at Compass Pest Management to set up your free inspection if you have termites or learn more about our various home pest control solutions in Riverside. 

How Can I Prevent Termites in the Future?

To prevent future infestations of termites, ensure you take care of any moisture issues, properly drying anything affected by floods and leaks. You should also inspect the exterior of your home for cracks in the foundation and exterior walls and seal them to keep termites from getting inside.

Don't forget to contact Compass Pest Management for a free termite inspection.