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Top Home Repairs That Accidentally Invite Termites

  • Writer: Jameson Elam
    Jameson Elam
  • 6 hours ago
  • 3 min read

Assorted tools on a wooden surface: yellow tape measure, pliers, wrench, and hammer. Silver wrenches labeled with numbers.

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.

Good Repairs Can Create Hidden Termite Risks

Many homeowners make repairs or improvements to protect and maintain their homes, but some projects unintentionally create new entry points for termites. In San Jose and the wider Santa Clara County area, the wrong repair can quickly lead to an infestation.

Understanding how certain fixes or upgrades attract termites helps you prevent problems before they start.


Man in a cap using a drill on wood siding, casting a shadow. Sunlit beige panels in the background. Daytime, focused work.
Don't forget to check for leaks or water damage before replacing siding.

1. Replacing Siding Without Fixing Moisture Issues

Swapping out old siding is a smart move, but skipping moisture repairs first can backfire.

  • Termites are attracted to damp framing behind siding.

  • If water damage or leaks remain, new siding can trap moisture and give termites a hidden entry.

Safe Fix: Inspect for leaks and rot before installation. Ensure flashing and weather barriers are secure.



Lush garden with vibrant purple, pink, and yellow flowers. Stone wall and steps lead through the greenery. Bright, sunny ambiance.
Avoiding soil to wood contact and dense plantings near your foundation can help prevent termite infestations

2. Installing Mulch or Landscaping Against the House

Fresh mulch and new plants look great but can create soil-to-wood contact:

  • Moist mulch provides an ideal path for subterranean termites.

  • Dense plantings keep the soil damp against your foundation.

Safe Fix: Keep at least a 6-inch clearance between soil and wood siding. Use gravel borders or non-wood ground cover near the foundation.



Wooden deck under construction attached to a house. Unfinished frame with vertical posts. Green grass and trees in the background.
Wood meets ground, termites are found

3. Adding Wooden Decks or Stairs Directly to Soil

Deck projects can turn into termite magnets when:

  • Ledger boards touch siding without flashing.

  • Support posts sit directly in soil without concrete footings.

Safe Fix: Use concrete or steel footings, and flash ledger boards properly to prevent moisture intrusion.



Person in blue shirt and jeans installing dark roof tiles with red tool. Wooden beams visible beneath, autumn trees in background.
Proper roof installation and repairs are crucial in preventing extensive termite damage.

4. Repairing Roofs Without Sealing Eaves and Fascia

Termites, especially drywood species, often start from the top down:

  • Exposed eaves or unsealed fascia boards invite swarming termites.

  • Rotting wood along roof edges accelerates the problem.

Safe Fix: After roof repairs, seal and paint eaves, and check that attic vents are screened.



Man fixing burst pipe in wall, kneeling on wooden floor, wearing jeans and black shirt. Tool bag with tools visible. Clear setting.
Fixing the leak may not be enough! Be sure to inspect for moisture and signs of termite activity.

5. Fixing Plumbing Leaks Without Checking for Damage

Leaky pipes are a beacon for termites, and repairing the leak alone isn’t enough:

  • Hidden damp wood in walls or crawl spaces can sustain a colony.

  • Termites may already be nesting in previously wet areas.

Safe Fix: After plumbing repairs, inspect adjacent wood framing and subfloors for termite activity or moisture damage.


FAQs About Termite-Inviting Repairs

Should I get a termite inspection after major repairs? 

Absolutely. Post-project inspections ensure no hidden conditions invite termites.

Do mulch and landscaping really attract termites?

Yes. Damp organic material near foundations can lead termites straight to your home.

Can termites really enter through new construction?

Yes. Fresh repairs can create ideal conditions if moisture or soil contact isn’t addressed.

Why San Jose Homeowners Choose Good Sense Termite

With 14+ years of local experience, we know which repairs often lead to infestations. Our services include:

We help homeowners protect their investment before a small mistake becomes a costly infestation.


Keep Your Repairs from Becoming a Termite Invitation

Before your next home improvement project, schedule a free inspection with Good Sense Termite. We’ll identify hidden risks and ensure your repairs keep your home safe.

 
 
 

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