Category Archives: Termites

Constructing stick-built homes is like building a perfect ground for termite infestation. Such is the case for structures that have not been subjected to new construction termite treatments and built without termite-deterring construction practices. 

The good news is, there are many new and time-tested methods that you can use before and during the construction phase of your new home. Here are some termite prevention measures for your new construction projects:

1. Use termite-resistant materials

Choose construction materials that are naturally resistant to termites, such as pressure-treated wood or termite-resistant lumber. These materials can act as a barrier, making it harder for termites to infest.

2. Create physical barriers

Install physical barriers during construction, like stainless steel mesh or termite shields, to block termite access points. These barriers can be placed in areas where the structure comes into direct contact with the soil. 

3. Properly grade soil

Ensure proper grading and drainage around the foundation to prevent water accumulation. Termites are attracted to moisture, so keeping the soil around the building dry can help deter infestations.

4. Install a termite barrier

Consider installing a chemical termite barrier during construction. This involves applying termiticides to the soil before pouring the foundation. This creates a protective barrier that repels or kills termites attempting to enter the structure.

5. Keep wood above ground

Elevate wooden structures, such as decks or porches, above ground level. Avoid direct wood-to-soil contact, as this can provide a direct pathway for termites into the structure.

6. Ensure proper ventilation

Ensure proper ventilation in crawl spaces to reduce humidity levels. Termites thrive in humid conditions, so proper ventilation can make the environment less favorable for them. 

Preventing termites in new construction projects is crucial to avoid potential structural damage. By following these techniques, you can significantly reduce the risk of termite damage in your new construction project and ensure its long-term structural integrity. 

Remember, prevention is always cheaper and less disruptive than dealing with a full-blown termite infestation later. 

Call Termite Control Experts 

Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you prevent and eliminate termites. We offer QualityPro-certified termite control treatments to eliminate all types of termites. Learn more about our Termite Control and Extermination Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County. 

Schedule a free inspection or estimate with Pro Pacific Pest Control at 800-901-1102!

Wood is easily susceptible to termites—that’s not a secret at all. Termites just love to munch on wood. That is why when choosing building materials for your home, you need to make sure that they are termite-resistant.

However, avoiding wood for building your home is never an option. You will always have them, whether you are using them on your kitchen cabinet, sofa, or crawl spaces. The best defense to have is to treat the wood you will to become termite-resistant.

8 Termite-Resistant Building Materials You Can Use

While no material is completely immune to termite infestation, some materials are naturally more resistant to termites than others. Here are 8 construction materials that are generally less prone to termite damage:

1. Concrete

Termites cannot digest the minerals in concrete, making it a completely unappealing and unusable food source for them. Concrete is a popular choice for foundations, floors, and walls due to its durability and resistance to various elements, including termites. However, it’s important to note that termites can still find their way into structures through other materials or vulnerabilities in construction.

2. Metal

Termites are not attracted to metal and usually avoid it. Steel, aluminum, and other metals are commonly used for beams, framing, roofing, and various structural elements, making them naturally termite-resistant choices.

3. Glass

Glass is another material that termites do not consume. While glass is not a primary structural material, it can be used in various parts of a building, contributing to a termite-resistant design.

4. Plastic and PVC

Plastic materials, such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and PVC (polyvinyl chloride), are generally not appealing to termites. These materials are used in various construction applications, including pipes, decking, and insulation.

5. Stone

Natural stones, such as granite, marble, or basalt, are not attractive to termites. Using stone in construction, particularly for foundations and exterior elements, can help deter termite infestations.

6. Fiber Cement Siding

This material combines the aesthetics of wood with the durability and termite resistance of concrete. It is made from a mixture of Portland cement, sand, water, and cellulose fibers. While the cellulose attracts termites, the cement’s presence makes it impossible for them to burrow and feed.

7. Brick

Similar to concrete, brick is also made from inorganic materials that termites cannot digest. Its durability and fire resistance make it a popular choice for exterior walls, fireplaces, and chimneys.

8. Treated Lumber

Wood is not always susceptible to termites. As long as they are treated, wood can still serve you well. Treated lumber undergoes a pressure treatment process where chemicals are infused into the wood fibers, making it toxic and unpalatable to termites. Treated lumber is commonly used for framing, decks, fences, and other outdoor structures.

It’s crucial to note that while these materials may be less susceptible to termite damage, the overall vulnerability of a structure depends on the entire construction system and the specific conditions of the building site. Additionally, some construction practices, like maintaining proper drainage and ensuring a termite barrier during construction, can further reduce the risk of termite infestation. Regular inspections and preventive measures are essential to protect structures from potential termite problems.

Seek Help from Termite Control Expert

If you suspect that you have termites in your home, it is important to contact a professional pest control company for an inspection. Early detection and treatment can help to prevent extensive damage to your home.

Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate or prevent termites through our QualityPro-certified termite control treatments. Learn more about our Termite Control Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County.

Call us at 800-901-1102 to schedule a FREE termite inspection/estimate.

If you are searching for natural termite control methods, planting certain plants around your garden has been proven to help keep these tiny insects at bay. There are a few plants that have natural repellent properties against termites you can consider.

When it comes to termite control, the first thing that comes to mind is often chemicals. They are effective, but they can be harmful to the plants in your garden. Chemicals are also more expensive than natural methods.

Nevertheless, if you have a termite infestation, it is important to know that plants and other natural methods might not work. It’s important to consult a termite control expert to know what’s the next best move.

8 Plants to Deter Termites

Planting these plants around in your garden can help deter termite infestations. While no plant can guarantee complete protection against termites, some plants are believed to have repellent properties that may help deter termites to some extent.

It’s important to note that the effectiveness of these plants can vary, and they are not a substitute for professional termite control measures. Here are a few plants that are often considered to have termite-repelling qualities:

1. Vetiver grass

Vetiver grass is a tall, clumping grass with a strong, citrusy scent. It is native to Southeast Asia and is often used as a landscaping plant. Vetiver grass is also known for its ability to repel insects, including termites.

2. Mint

Mint is a hardy perennial that can be grown in California gardens and can be planted in both full sun and partial shade. With their strong aroma, planting mint around the perimeter of your home or garden may help discourage termites.

3. Lemongrass

Lemongrass is native to Southeast Asia and is often used in cooking. This tall, perennial grass with a strong, lemon-like scent can be grown in California’s warm, sunny conditions. Because of its strong scent, this plant has the ability to repel termites.

4. Catnip

Catnip is a member of the mint family and is known for its strong, cat-attracting scent. However, termites are also repelled by the scent of catnip, but its effectiveness is not fully proven. Catnip is a hardy perennial that can be grown in California.

5. Chrysanthemum

Chrysanthemums contain a natural insect repellent called pyrethrin. This compound is commonly used in insecticides and may have some effect on termites.

6. Marigold

Marigold is a popular garden flower that is known for its bright, orange flowers and strong, pungent scent. It is often planted to deter various pests, and some people believe they can have a deterrent effect on termites as well. Marigolds are easy to grow and can be planted in both full sun and partial shade.

7. Neem

Neem is known for its insecticidal properties and has been used traditionally for pest control. While it may have some repellent effect on termites, more research is needed.

8. Garlic

Garlic is a bulbous plant with a strong, pungent scent. Garlic is a common kitchen herb that is also known for its ability to repel termites. Garlic can be planted in most climates, but it prefers full sun and well-drained soil.

Remember that relying solely on plants to deter termites is not a comprehensive solution. Integrated pest management, including regular inspections, maintaining proper ventilation and moisture control, and seeking professional help when needed, is crucial for effective termite control.

Seek Help from Termite Control Expert

If you suspect that you have termites in your home, it is important to contact a professional pest control company for an inspection. Early detection and treatment can help to prevent extensive damage to your home.

Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate or prevent termites through our QualityPro-certified termite control treatments. Learn more about our Termite Control Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County.

Call us at 800-901-1102 to schedule a FREE termite inspection/estimate.

A close-up of termites commonly found in California homes.

Termites can pose significant dangers and threats to your home, mainly because they eat materials containing cellulose such as wood and other organic matter. Your furniture, kitchen cabinet, drywall, and crawlspaces are all susceptible to termite damage if they are untreated and unattended.

Damage caused by termites is not just a structural problem. It has also a financial impact because they incur significant costs in repairing or replacing damaged wooden structures, furniture, and other items. In severe cases, the financial impact can be substantial.

In addition, termite infestations can decrease the resale value of a property. Prospective buyers are often wary of purchasing a property with a history of termite damage or ongoing infestations, leading to challenges in the real estate market. So as much as possible, you don’t want termites near your property.

To mitigate these dangers, it’s essential to conduct regular inspections for signs of termite activity and take preventive measures.

Natural remedies for termites are usually less expensive than traditional chemical treatments, not to mention they are less harmful to the environment. However, it is important to note that these methods may not be as effective as professional treatments, especially if the termite infestation is severe.

10 Ways to Get Rid of Termites Naturally

It’s important to note that while these methods may help control termite populations, severe infestations often require professional intervention. Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial for effective termite control. If you’re wondering what’s the best natural termite control method, here are some of them:

1. Nematodes

Beneficial nematodes are microscopic worms that feed on termites. When applied to the soil, they seek out and infect termite larvae, helping to control termite populations.

2. Essential Oils

Essential oils have termite-repelling properties. Mixing these oils with water and spraying the solution on affected areas can help deter termites. Here are some essential oils you may use:

• Orange oil contains d-limonene, which is toxic to termites. It can be applied directly to infested areas or used as a barrier treatment to repel termites.
• Neem oil is a natural pesticide that is also effective against termites. You can mix orange oil with water and spray it on areas where you have seen termites or where you suspect they may be hiding. 
• Citronella oil is another natural repellent that termites hate. You can mix citronella oil with water and spray it on areas where you have seen termites or where you suspect they may be hiding. 
• Cedar oil is a natural repellent that termites hate. You can soak cedar blocks in cedar oil and place them around your home’s foundation. You can also add cedar oil to a diffuser and let it run in your home.

3. Boric Acid

Boric acid is a natural insecticide that can be applied as a powder or solution to affected areas. Termites ingest it, and it disrupts their digestive system, eventually leading to their death. You can sprinkle boric acid around your home’s foundation, in cracks and crevices, and in other areas where you have seen termites. 

4. Heat Treatment

Heat treatment is a method of killing termites by raising the temperature of the infested area to 120-140 degrees Fahrenheit. This can be done using a professional heat treatment service or by yourself using a heat gun.

5. Sunlight Exposure

No heat gun? Exposing infested wooden items or furniture to direct sunlight can help in killing termites. Termites are sensitive to heat, and prolonged exposure can be effective in eliminating them.

6. Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder that consists of fossilized diatoms. When termites come into contact with it, the powder absorbs lipids from their exoskeleton, leading to dehydration and death. You can sprinkle diatomaceous earth around your home’s foundation, in cracks and crevices, and in other areas where you have seen termites.

7. Vinegar

Vinegar is a natural acid that termites hate. You can mix vinegar with water and spray it on areas where you have seen termites or where you suspect they may be hiding.

8. Salt Barrier

Salt is a desiccant that can dehydrate termites and kill them. You can sprinkle salt around your home’s foundation, in cracks and crevices, and in other areas where you have seen termites.

9. Cardboard Traps

Placing wet cardboard near termite-infested areas can attract termites. Once they infest the cardboard, you can remove and burn it to eliminate a portion of the termite population.

10. Beneficial Plants

Certain plants, such as vetiver grass and neem trees, have natural repellent properties against termites. Planting them around your property can help deter termite infestations.

These are just a few of the many natural termite control methods that are available. It is important to do your research and choose the method that is right for you and your home.

Seek Help from Termite Control Expert

If you suspect that you have termites in your home, it is important to contact a professional pest control company for an inspection. Early detection and treatment can help to prevent extensive damage to your home.

Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate or prevent termites through our QualityPro-certified termite control treatments. Learn more about our Termite Control Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County.

Call us at 800-901-1102 to schedule a FREE termite inspection/estimate.

Subterranean termites

Termites are small, white insects that live in colonies underground. They are silent destroyers that can cause extensive damage to your home without you even knowing they are there.

In California, you can find at least 23 different species of termites. The most common and destructive species are the subterranean termite, the drywood termite, and the Formosan termite.

Subterranean termites are the most common type of termite in California. They live in underground colonies and build mud tubes to travel between their colony and food sources. Subterranean termites can cause extensive damage to homes and other structures.

Drywood termites are less common than subterranean termites, but they can still be very destructive. They live in dry wood, such as lumber, furniture, and firewood. Drywood termites can cause serious damage to homes and other structures, especially in areas with high humidity.

Formosan termites are the most destructive type of termite in California. They are originally from Asia, but they have been introduced to many parts of the world, including California. Formosan termites are very aggressive and can quickly destroy homes and other structures.

9 Signs of Termite Infestation at Home

How do you know if your home in California has been attacked by termites? Here are the most common signs of termite infestation:

1. Your wood fixtures have mud tubes.

These are tunnels made of mud and soil that termites use to travel between their underground nest and the wood they are feeding on. Also known as shelter tubes, mud tubes are often found on the foundation of your home, along walls, or in crawl spaces.

2. Your house is filled with swarmers.

Swarmers are winged termites that leave the colony to mate and start new colonies. They are often seen in the spring, and they can be seen swarming around lights or indoors if there is an infestation.

3. You see frass around.

Frass is the termite poop often left by drywood termites. It looks like small sawdust-like pellets, which can be found near termite activity, such as near mud tubes or under damaged wood.

4. There are discarded wings.

After swarmers mate, they shed their wings. Finding discarded wings near windowsills, spider webs, or other areas may suggest termite activity.

5. You see damaged wood.

Termites feed on wood from the inside out, so the outer surface may appear normal while the inside is hollowed out. Tap on suspected wood with a screwdriver or similar tool; if it sounds hollow, there may be termite damage.

6. You see bubbling paint or wallpaper.

This can be a sign that termites are feeding on the wood behind the paint or wallpaper.

7. You see drooping drywall.

Drywall is made of paper and cellulose, which are food sources for termites. If termites are feeding on the drywall behind your walls, the drywall may start to droop or sag. Subterranean termites are often the suspect of dropping drywalls.

8. Your doors and windows can be hard to open.

Doors and windows that are difficult to open usually mean termites have caused damage to the frames of doors and windows, making them hard to open or close.

9. You can see termites.

If you see termites, chances are there is an infestation happening. In some cases, you may actually see worker termites, which are pale, soft-bodied insects. However, they are usually hidden within wood or mud tubes.

Useful Tips to Avoid Termite Infestation

To prevent termite infestation, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Keep wood-based mulch at least six inches away from your foundation.
• Repair any cracks or gaps in your foundation as soon as possible.
• Store firewood away from your house.
• Have your home inspected for termites regularly.
• Detecting termites early is crucial to minimize potential damage to your home. Here are some signs that may indicate the presence of termites:

Seek Help from Termite Control Expert

If you suspect that you have termites in your home, it is important to contact a professional pest control company for an inspection. Early detection and treatment can help to prevent extensive damage to your home.

Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate or prevent termites through our QualityPro-certified termite control treatments. Learn more about our Termite Control Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County.

Call us at 800-901-1102 to schedule a FREE termite inspection/estimate.

California is home to three main species of termites: subterranean termites, drywood termites, and dampwood termites. Each species has its own unique characteristics and habits.

They might be different from one another, but one thing they share in common is that they love to munch on wood. As long as you have wood at home, whether it’s your furniture in the kitchen or your bench in the garden, you’re not entirely safe from termite infestation, unless you use methods to keep them away.

Here are the termites found in California to help you understand these termites better and how they can cause damage to your home:

1. Subterranean termites

Subterranean termites

These are the most common and destructive termite species in California. The western subterranean termites, in particular, are found in various regions of California. They live in underground colonies containing millions of individuals and build mud tubes to access food sources above ground. Wood is their main source of food feed, thereby causing significant damage to structures. If you see mud tubes, there’s a huge chance that your property has a subterranean termite infestation.

2. Drywood termites

Drywood termite

Although they are less common than subterranean termites, drywood termites can still cause significant damage to your property. They are prevalent in coastal and southern parts of California. Drywood termites do not require contact with soil, unlike subterranean termites. They nest in dry, untreated wood, such as lumber, furniture, and firewood, and produce fecal pellets that can accumulate beneath infested wood. Drywood termites are often found in older homes and structures that have not been properly treated for termites.

3. Dampwood termites

Dampwood termite

These are the least common species of termites in California. Dampwood termites are usually found in areas with high humidity, such as coastal regions and mountainous areas. Compared to drywood termites, dampwood termites require moist, decaying wood to survive. They have larger colonies compared to drywood termites.

What’s the difference between termite species in California?

Here’s a side-by-side comparison of termite species in California:

Seek Help from Termite Control Expert

If you suspect that you have termites in your home, it is important to contact a professional pest control company for an inspection. Early detection and treatment can help to prevent extensive damage to your home.

Pro Pacific Pest Control can help you eliminate or prevent termites through our QualityPro-certified termite control treatments. Learn more about our Termite Control Service in San Bernardino, Los Angeles, San Diego, Riverside, and Orange County.

Call us at 800-901-1102 to schedule a FREE termite inspection/estimate.