The 7 Most Overlooked Termite Entry Points in California Homes

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About the Author: Jameson Elam is the owner and operator of Good Sense Termite, serving Alameda, Santa Clara, San Mateo, and Santa Cruz counties. With over 14 years of hands-on experience in the termite control industry, Jameson specializes in thorough inspections, accurate diagnostics, and long-term solutions tailored to California homes. His deep knowledge of local termite behavior and building structures has made Good Sense Termite a trusted name for homeowners and real estate professionals alike.

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Termites Don’t Need a Big Opening to Invade

In California, especially in San Jose and Santa Clara County, termites can slip through gaps as small as 1/16 inch. Most homeowners focus on obvious risk areas like rotting decks or wood piles, but many infestations start in less visible places.

By the time you see damage, termites may have been active for months. Understanding these hidden entry points can help you stop infestations before they start.

1. Foundation Cracks and Expansion Joints

Subterranean termites often start with the soil around your home. Even hairline cracks in concrete give them an easy path inside:

• Check slab edges, garage floors, and patio joints.

• Seasonal soil movement in San Jose can create new cracks after heavy rain or drought cycles.

Prevention Tip: Seal cracks promptly and maintain proper soil grading around your foundation.

2. Crawl Space Vents and Gaps

Crawl spaces in older Santa Clara County homes are prime targets. Termites enter through:

• Unscreened or damaged vent covers

• Gaps where pipes or electrical conduits enter the crawl space

Prevention Tip: Use fine-mesh vent screens and seal utility gaps with exterior-grade caulk or expanding foam.

3. Roof and Attic Openings

Drywood termites are silent invaders that often start at the top of the house. They enter through:

• Gaps under roof shingles or tiles

• Exposed fascia boards or eaves

• Unscreened attic vents

Prevention Tip: Inspect your roofline annually, especially before swarm season in late spring.

4. Plumbing Penetrations

Subterranean termites follow moisture and can enter through plumbing access points like:

• Gaps where pipes meet the slab or wall framing

• Outdoor hose bib penetrations

Prevention Tip: Keep these areas sealed, and check for leaks that may attract termites.

5. Deck Ledger Boards and Wooden Stairs

Even treated lumber can attract termites if moisture is present. Common issues include:

• Gaps between ledger boards and siding

• Wooden stairs or landings that contact soil

Prevention Tip: Maintain a gap between decks and soil, and keep ledger boards flashed and sealed.

6. Window and Door Frames

Wooden frames near the ground can wick up moisture, creating a hidden entry point for termites:

• Watch for peeling paint, soft spots, or fine cracks in lower sills.

• Swarms often emerge near windows, signaling nearby colonies.

Prevention Tip: Keep frames painted, caulked, and dry to block termite access.

7. Soil-to-Wood Contact Points

This is the most common and overlooked issue. Termites thrive where soil touches wood, including:

• Fence posts attached to the house

• Wooden siding that meets mulch or dirt

• Porch steps or trim that touch soil

Prevention Tip: Maintain at least a 6-inch gap between soil and any wood on your home.

FAQs About Termite Entry Points

How small of a gap do termites need to enter? 

Subterranean termites can enter through gaps as small as 1/16 inch.

If I see no damage, does that mean I’m safe? 

Not necessarily. Termites often cause hidden damage in walls, attics, and crawl spaces before it becomes visible.

What’s the best way to protect my home? 

Annual professional inspections are the most effective way to catch early infestations.

Why Local Homeowners Trust Good Sense Termite

With over 15 years of local experience, Good Sense Termite knows exactly where California termites sneak in. Our services include:

• Free, detailed inspections with photo documentation

• Identification of hidden entry points before they become a problem

• Custom treatment and prevention plans for lasting protection

We specialize in protecting San Jose and Santa Clara County homes from the inside out.

Stop Termites Before They Find a Way In

Most termite damage is preventable when hidden entry points are found early. Schedule a free inspection with Good Sense Termite today to protect your home year-round.