How Does Termite Control Work?

Termites are one of the most destructive pests a homeowner can face. They cause billions of dollars in damage every year, often without any obvious warning signs. If you're in San Jose, CA, where termite activity is high, you might be wondering:

✅ How do professionals detect termites?

✅ What’s the best treatment for my home?

✅ How can I prevent termites from coming back?

This guide breaks down how termite control works, which treatment is best for Drywood vs. Subterranean termites, and how to protect your home long-term.

Step 1: How Professionals Detect Termites

The first step in termite control is a professional inspection to determine:

🔍 What type of termites you have – Drywood or Subterranean? The treatment approach is different for each.

🔍 Where the infestation is located – Inside walls? Under the foundation?

🔍 The extent of damage – A few localized spots or widespread structural damage?

Termite inspectors check for mud tubes, frass (termite droppings), hollow wood, and winged termites around your home. In some cases, they use moisture meters and infrared tools to detect hidden infestations.

📌 Homeowner Tip: If you see small piles of what looks like sawdust near your baseboards, that’s likely drywood termite frass. If you see mud tunnels leading up your foundation, that’s a sign of subterranean termites.

Step 2: Choosing the Right Termite Treatment

Not all termite treatments work the same. The right solution depends on whether you have Drywood or Subterranean termites.

Drywood Termite Treatments

Drywood termites live inside the wood and don’t need contact with soil. Since they form smaller, localized colonies, treatment focuses on direct wood applications or full-home fumigation if necessary.

✅ Fumigation (Whole-Structure Treatment)

• Your home is tented and filled with gas to eliminate all drywood termites inside the structure.

• Best for: Severe, widespread infestations.

• Pros: Kills all termites in the home.

• Cons: Requires homeowners to vacate for 2-3 days and offers no long-term prevention.

✅ Localized Spot Treatments (For Small Infestations)

• Foam, dust, or liquid termiticides are injected into infested wood.

• Borate-based products and orange oil are common options (though orange oil’s effectiveness is debated).

• Best for: Small, isolated infestations.

• Pros: No need to tent the house.

• Cons: Won’t work if termites are in multiple areas.

Subterranean Termite Treatments

Subterranean termites build massive underground colonies and enter homes from the soil. Treatments focus on creating chemical barriers or eliminating the colony at the source.

✅ Liquid Termite Treatments (Soil Barrier Protection)

• A liquid termiticide (like Termidor or Altriset) is applied around the home’s foundation.

• Termites carry the poison back to the colony, eliminating it.

• Best for: Preventing future infestations.

• Pros: Lasts up to 10 years, provides long-term protection.

• Cons: Requires trenching or drilling in some cases.

✅ Termite Bait Stations (Colony Elimination)

• Bait stations with poisoned food are placed in the soil around your home.

• Termites feed on the bait and take it back to the colony, slowly killing it off.

• Best for: Long-term monitoring and prevention.

• Pros: Less invasive, great for prevention.

• Cons: Takes time to fully eliminate a colony.

📌 Homeowner Tip: If a company only recommends fumigation without checking for subterranean activity, get a second opinion! The wrong treatment could leave your home vulnerable to future infestations.

Step 3: Preventing Termites from Coming Back

After treatment, the last thing you want is another infestation. Here’s how to keep termites away for good:

🛑 Fix moisture problems – Termites love damp wood. Repair leaks, improve drainage, and keep soil away from wooden structures.

🛑 Remove wood-to-ground contact – Keep firewood, mulch, and wooden fences away from your home’s foundation.

🛑 Schedule annual inspections – A professional can spot early warning signs before termites become a major issue.

🛑 Consider a termite warranty – Some pest control companies offer long-term protection plans with free follow-up treatments.

Final Thoughts: Is Termite Control Worth It?

Many homeowners hesitate to invest in professional treatment because they worry about costs or getting ripped off. But here’s the truth:

✔ Waiting too long can lead to severe structural damage and expensive repairs.

✔ Choosing the right treatment for your termite type is key.

✔ Preventive steps can save you thousands of dollars down the road.

If you’re in San Jose, CA, and worried about termites, don’t wait until the damage is done. Schedule an inspection today to protect your home and your peace of mind.