Your Stockton home is vulnerable to several types of termites. The most common types include drywood termites, subterranean termites, and dampwood termites. Drywood termites are widespread in California and found in dry conditions. They don’t have to contact the soil nor much moisture to survive and thrive. Dampwood termites are not as common but still a concern for homeowners.

Another common type of termite in Stockton is the subterranean termite, which live and breed underground within the soil. They prefer to live in moist wood found both outdoors and inside of your home. If your house is suffering from water damage or if you have small openings around the exterior of your home, termites can take over.

Even though termites are small and remain out of sight for the most part, if they make it into your home or business, severe damage may follow. Since it can be hard to identify if termites have invaded your structure, you must stay vigilant. It is a good idea to schedule a professional termite inspection at least once a year. Along with looking for signs of termites, the professionals can teach you how to protect your home from termites.

What attracts termites to my home?

Generally, termites will create their colony around a food source. Since termites consume rotting or softwood, they usually look for moist areas, but this is not always necessary. Some of the top ways you may be attracting termites to your home can be found below.

Wood Piles

Woodpiles and firewood can attract termites and cause them to come closer to your home. If the woodpile is close to the structure, the termites may move from the wood to your house, causing severe damage. If you want to know how to protect your home from termites, be sure to move all wood away from your home.

Excessive Bushes and Foliage

As wood rots, it will attract termites. The termites may move from these rotting elements to your home. Even decaying tree stumps can attract termites to your property.

Leaves and Tree Limbs

If leaves or tree limbs are touching your roof, they may attract termites into your home. These limbs provide a bridge for the termites into your home.

Clogged Gutters

If debris builds up in your gutters, the moisture will soften the wood on your roof, attracting termites. Clean your gutters to help prevent this.

Signs of Termite Damage

There are a few signs you can look for that indicate you may have a termite problem. Some top signs of termites include:

Small piles of wings
Structural damage
Frass (small brown droppings)
Mud tubes

If you notice one or several of these signs, don’t wait to call for help from the professionals.

What should I do if I find termite damage?

Keeping wood, mulch, and other debris away from your home will help eliminate the termite’s food source. However, even with your best efforts, you may not be able to prevent this issue altogether. When you notice a problem with termites in or around your home, calling the professionals at AAI Pest Control for an inspection and treatment is best.

While there are some DIY termite control options available, these usually are not effective and can lead to even more damage.

How can AAI Pest Control get rid of termites in my home?

If you want to know how to protect your home from termites, please follow the prevention tips and use this guide to help identify termite activity before it’s too late Even if you do not have any signs of termite damage, call the professionals at AAI Pest Control to learn about our termite prevention services for homeowners. We offer three types of termite prevention plans to fit your needs, and our Premium plan also includes year-round pest control. Get started today! Call AAI Pest Control or fill out the contact form on this page.