Termites can strike fear into the heart of any homeowner, but the truth is in California you are unlikely to find a home that hasn’t dealt with some kind of termite damage. The San Francisco Bay area and California in general are prime breeding grounds for termites. There are some measures you can take to help prevent termite infestation in your home.

termite inspectionsFirst, keep up on home repairs. Termites seek out raw wood fissures and unpainted crevices. Do not let your home projects linger. Paint or seal all wooden surfaces promptly. Be sure you don’t forget the attic and garage. Wood is often exposed in these areas and can be a prime attraction for termites. Attic and crawl space vents also offer ideal entry points for termites. Installing a fine mesh screen on all your vents is an inexpensive way to help keep out termites. In addition, be sure to have your home regularly inspected for termites. It’s generally recommended to have a termite inspection at least once every two years. Many companies are happy to provide this service for free.

Termite damage occurs slowly, so catching an infestation early is critical. Early detection can mean the difference between spending just a couple of hundred dollars on treatment and spending thousands on massive termite damage.

If you notice any of the following warning signs of a termite infestation, it is important to seek professional termite assistance immediately. These include:

  • Surface blisters on wood – These blisters are caused by termites digging tunnels in the wood.
  • Piles of sawdust looking material – Sawdust like pellet piles near window sills and sliding doors are a common sign of termites.
  • Swarms of termites – You may notice a swarm of termites around the outside of your home or random termites flying around inside.

A few simple steps, professional termite inspections, and a watchful eye can help prevent termite damage to your home. Early detection is the best way to avoid costly repairs. For your free termite inspection, contact us. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff is ready to help with all your termite needs.