Frequently Asked Questions About Termites

Did you know that termites are hazardous, not because they bite or sting, but because of the damage they can cause to homes? It’s a common issue here in San Jose, California. You want to get an inspection done when buying or selling real estate and then every three to five years when maintaining your home. Frequent inspections make sure you don’t get a significant termite infestation and that you can address it before it gets too big of a problem.

Homeowner Experience team had the chance to interview an expert from a local termite control company to help answer these questions below.

DRY WOOD TERMITES VS. SUBTERRANEAN TERMITES IN SAN JOSE, CALIFORNIA

Drywood termites infest dry wood and do not require contact with the soil, while subterranean termites need contact with soil or water to survive. Drywood termites have fewer members in their colonies than subterranean termites and feed at a much slower rate.

IS SPRING THE SWARMING SEASON FOR MOST TERMITES?

The answer is yes. Generally, anytime in the spring, when you have a sunny day after a rainy day, is a perfect opportunity for dry wood termites to start swarming and find new homes.

WHAT ARE THE VISIBLE SIGNS OF A TERMITE INFESTATION?

If you observe carefully, you may find these signs of termite infestations: mud tubes, damaged wood, bubbling paint, sagging floors, tiny holes in drywall, termite droppings, discarded wings and swarms.

CAN TERMITES BE HEARD?

Generally, no. But there are situations where subterranean termites have such a bad infestation on a wall or a floor that the homeowners can hear them chewing on the wood at night or when their surroundings are quiet.

Keep in mind that a DIY approach doesn’t guarantee that your home will be safe. Even if it’s only a sneaking suspicion you have termites, you need to contact a professionally trained pest controller who can assist you with termite damage repair with the use of their modern equipment.

Check out our YouTube video Subterranean Termites Damage and Treatment | Drywood Termites VS. Subterranean Termites, where you’ll see a specific property getting termite treatment!

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