Where Do Termites Come From? Common Sources Around San Jose Homes

How Do Termites Get Inside San Jose Homes?

Termites may seem like they appear out of nowhere, but they’re actually quite strategic. In San Jose’s mix of warm days, irrigated landscapes, and older housing stock, the conditions are perfect for termites to settle in and spread.

There are two main culprits in this region:

• Subterranean termites, which live underground and tunnel into wood

• Drywood termites, which live directly in wood without needing soil

Let’s break down how and where each type comes from - and how they get into your home.

1. Soil-to-Wood Contact

Subterranean termites need moist soil to survive. They build mud tubes from the ground to any wood they can find, including:

• Deck posts and fences that touch soil

• Wooden siding that dips below grade

• Foundation vents with damaged screens

• Crawl space beams near damp earth

In San Jose, we often find infestations starting where irrigation water soaks the soil near the foundation.

2. Attic Vents and Rooflines

Drywood termites enter through:

• Damaged or unsealed attic vents

• Gaps in roof eaves or fascia boards

• Cracks in exposed wood trim or siding

They don’t need soil and can colonize wood directly - especially in older San Jose homes with unsealed attics or exposed rafters.

3. Cracks in Foundations and Stucco

Both termite types can exploit:

• Hairline cracks in concrete foundations

• Expansion joints and plumbing entry points

• Cracks in stucco or mortar near baseboards

These tiny openings provide access to interior framing or crawl spaces.

4. Moving Infested Wood or Furniture

Bringing in:

• Old furniture from infested homes

• Firewood stored next to your house

• Construction materials with hidden colonies

...can introduce termites without realizing it. We’ve seen colonies establish from a single piece of termite-infested lumber.

Things to Know:

• Subterranean termites come from soil and enter through ground contact

• Drywood termites come from the air and enter through cracks or vents

• Termites often start infestations near water/humidity sources like sprinkler-soaked soil

• Old fences, decks, and firewood are common sources

• Attic vents and crawl spaces are key entry points in San Jose homes

• You can accidentally bring termites inside on furniture or wood

• Inspections can reveal hidden sources before major damage occurs

FAQ

Q: How do I know where the termites in my house came from? 

A: A professional inspection can help trace the infestation’s source—whether from underground, attic entry, or hidden wood in walls.

Q: Can termites come through concrete? 

A: Yes - especially subterranean termites. They exploit cracks in foundations and can build mud tubes around barriers.

Q: Are termites native to San Jose? 

A: Yes. Both subterranean and drywood termites are established in the Bay Area due to the favorable climate and high number of wood-framed homes.

Q: How can I prevent termites from entering? 

A: Seal attic vents, repair siding, remove soil-to-wood contact, keep crawl spaces dry, and schedule annual inspections.

Stop Termites at the Source

Good Sense Termite provides free local inspections across San Jose, identifying the most common infestation entry points around your property—and stopping them before they grow.

Call today to book your inspection and protect your home.