Termite control in San Diego

Sitting on the coastline of California, San Diego is highly susceptible to the residual effects of El Niño and Pacific hurricanes. However, the damage from such storms is not the only threat to San Diego properties. Although small in size, termites can inflict damage on homes and businesses.

Termites can cause damage without being detected. Known as the “silent destroyers,” they can tunnel through wooden structures below the surface for extended periods of time, often before you even realize you have a problem. Fortunately, the termite experts at Western can help put your mind at ease.

Are termites common in San Diego?

Termites are a common concern in San Diego because the region’s climate creates the perfect conditions for termite activity throughout the year. The city regularly ranks as one of the worst in the US for termites.

While termite issues can pop up anywhere, homes and businesses in coastal and inland San Diego are especially at risk due to the mix of older wood structures, and periods of moisture that attract these pests.

Signs of termites in San Diego

One early sign of a termite problem may be the appearance of winged termites, or swarmers. These are reproductive termites that leave the nest to start new colonies. 

Swarmers are often confused with flying ants, but their straight antennae, even-sized wings, and thick waists can help tell them apart. Seeing winged termites indoors, especially near windows, light fixtures, or baseboards, is often a red flag that there may be an active infestation inside your structure, and it’s time to call in a professional to inspect your property.

Because termites can cause damage before you even know they are there, it is important to be on the lookout for signs of termites. Things to look for include:

• Hollow-sounding wood
• Tight-fitting doors or windows that are difficult to open
• Buildup of termite frass (tiny pellets resembling sawdust or sand)
• Piles of discarded wings
• Mud tunnels

If you see any of these signs or feel that the structural integrity of your San Diego property has been compromised, call the termite experts at Western Exterminator immediately. There is no time to waste when it comes to termites, so it is best to contact a professional as soon as possible.

What to do if you see winged termites

Flying termites or termite swarmers can be a key indicator of a termite infestation. Only a small subsection of termites is equipped with the wings necessary for flight, and when you see them swarming, a new termite colony is on the horizon. Termites with wings swarm at the beginning of the termite life cycle to breed and start a new colony. These winged termites are attracted to light, so they are often found around light sources such as lamps or windows.

If you notice flying termites indoors, don’t ignore them or assume they’ll go away. Swarmers can mean that termites are nesting inside the property or very close to it. You might also find discarded wings on windowsills or around vents, another clear sign they’ve already started looking for a place to settle.

Termite swarmers are often confused with flying ants. The two can be difficult to differentiate without the help of a professional. If you suspect you have flying termites on your property, contact us and have one of our termite experts identify the pest and any necessary course of action.

Termite inspection service in San Diego

Every year, termites cause approximately $5 billion in property damage.* Don’t want to be part of the statistic? Team up with Western Exterminator to help keep your property protected from termites. With regular termite inspections, the chance of detecting these pests early on is much greater. Whether or not you currently have termites, our termite experts will be able to provide the best recommendations for your specific situation.

If we spot conditions on your property that could attract termites or signs of termite activity on your property, we’ll point them out and recommend the next steps — whether that means targeted termite treatment, fumigation, or preventative measures.

Western Exterminator's termite treatment in San Diego

If termite activity is found, our termite control experts will work with you to determine the best solution, considering your needs and concerns. Contact us today to have a San Diego termite professional inspect your property.

^*National Pest Management Association. https://www.pestworld.org/news-hub/pest-articles/what-is-a-termite-inspection/ "What Is a Termite Inspection and Why Do You Need One?" Accessed April 24, 2025

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