Orange County's warm climate makes it one of the highest-risk areas for termite activity in the country. This guide covers the most effective prevention strategies for OC homeowners.
Why Orange County Homeowners Are at High Risk
Orange County's Mediterranean climate — warm temperatures year-round, moderate humidity near the coast, and dry inland conditions — creates ideal conditions for both drywood and subterranean termites. Combined with dense housing stock (much of it built in the 1960s–1990s with aging wood) and high real estate values, termite prevention is one of the most important investments OC homeowners can make.
Exterior Prevention Strategies
Reduce Wood-to-Soil Contact
Subterranean termites enter structures at any point where wood contacts soil. This includes:
- Wood siding that extends to grade level
- Fence posts buried in soil
- Deck posts without concrete footing isolation
- Wood mulch piled against the foundation
Solution: Maintain at least 6 inches of clearance between any wood and soil. Use concrete or metal barriers where wood must be near grade.
Seal Exterior Wood
Drywood termites enter through exposed, unfinished wood — especially at eaves, fascia, and around attic vents.
Solution: Maintain a complete coat of paint or sealant on all exterior wood surfaces. Pay particular attention to:
- Fascia boards and rake boards
- Eave soffits
- Window and door trim
- Any wood at roof penetrations
Attic Vent Screening
Attic vents are a primary entry point for drywood termite swarmers.
Solution: Ensure all attic vents are screened with 20-mesh or finer screen. Repair or replace damaged screens immediately.
Fix Moisture Problems
Both drywood and subterranean termites are attracted to conditions that facilitate moisture:
- Fix plumbing leaks promptly
- Ensure proper drainage away from the foundation
- Maintain gutters to direct water away from eaves and foundation
- Ventilate crawl spaces to prevent condensation
Interior Prevention
Annual Professional Inspection
The single most effective prevention tool. A licensed termite inspector can detect early-stage infestations before they become costly. In Orange County, most inspectors recommend annual inspections.
Monitor for Early Signs
Periodically check:
- Windowsills for frass or discarded wings
- Foundation walls and crawl space for mud tubes
- Garage walls and attic framing during seasonal access
Store Firewood Properly
Never store firewood against or under the structure. Keep it elevated and away from the house. Subterranean termites frequently use firewood as a bridge to the structure.
For New Construction and Remodels
If you're building or renovating, this is the ideal time for permanent preventive treatments:
Borate Treatment: Applied to all framing before drywall, BoraCare penetrates wood and provides decade-long protection against termites and wood-boring beetles.
Sub-slab Pre-treatment: A liquid termiticide barrier applied under the slab before concrete is poured provides a chemical barrier against subterranean termites.
Serving All Orange County Cities
Ultimate Termite provides preventive inspections and treatment throughout Orange County, including Irvine, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, Anaheim, and all surrounding cities.