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Beware of Subterranean Termites

Date: April 18, 2025
Written by: ATCO Pest Control

Termite Control in the Bay Area: How to Handle Subterranean Termites Like a Pro!

“What’s that tiny pile of dust by the baseboard?”
“Why are my wooden floors suddenly sagging?”
“Are those flying bugs termites?”

If you’re asking these questions, you’re not alone. Here in the Bay Area and East Bay, homeowners run into subterranean termites more often than they’d like. These pests don’t knock. They move in, chew through the foundation of your home, and cost thousands in repairs before you even realize what’s going on.

Here’s what’s really going down with termites in your home—and what to do when you see the warning signs.

What Are Subterranean Termites?

These aren’t your average pests. Subterranean termites are underground destroyers. They live in colonies of hundreds of thousands, building mud tubes from the soil up to the wood in your house. Once inside, they stay hidden—eating wood 24/7 from the inside out.

If you’ve spotted one of the following, you’re likely dealing with them:

  • Mud tubes near your home’s foundation
  • Winged swarmers (especially in spring)
  • Discarded wings near windowsills or doors
  • Hollow-sounding wood
  • Buckling wood floors or loose tiles

And if you’re in the East Bay or North Bay, you’re sitting right in their territory.

Why Termites Love the Bay Area

The East Bay’s mild climate? Prime real estate for termites. Moist soil, older wooden homes, and coastal air make a perfect storm for infestations.

Whether you’re in Richmond, Oakland, or San Rafael, you’re in termite country. And yes, even brand-new builds aren’t immune.

What’s the Real Cost of Ignoring Termites?

Here’s the harsh truth—termites cause over $5 billion in property damage every year across the U.S. Home insurance? Doesn’t cover termite damage.

Left untreated, these pests will:

  • Weaken structural beams
  • Ruin flooring and walls
  • Compromise your home’s value
  • Lead to costly renovations

And because subterranean termites work from the inside out, most homeowners don’t know they have a problem until it’s too late.

ATCO’s Approach to Termite Control in the Bay Area

When it comes to termite control in the Bay Area, we’ve been in the trenches for decades. ATCO Pest Control brings a hands-on, thorough approach with state-licensed experts who know what to look for—and exactly how to shut down an infestation.

Our termite treatment plans include:

  • In-depth inspections (we check all the spots termites love to hide)
  • Custom treatment options, including baiting and termiticide barriers
  • Follow-up visits to make sure the problem doesn’t come back
  • Preventative maintenance to keep your home termite-free year-round

Want the full rundown of our pest services? Head over to our complete pest control page.

Why Homeowners Trust ATCO

We’re not a one-size-fits-all shop. When you call ATCO, you get:

  • Local technicians who live and work in your community
  • Flexible scheduling and respectful service
  • A team that treats your home like their own

Serving areas from Richmond to Marin County, Sonoma, and Santa Clara, we’ve seen every kind of termite problem—and solved it.

Looking for a specific location? Check out our service areas here.

Prevention Tips: Keep Termites Off Your Property

Before termites make a move, make sure your home isn’t on the menu. Here are a few solid moves:

  • Fix leaks in roofs, pipes, and crawl spaces
  • Keep wood and mulch away from your foundation
  • Seal cracks in the foundation and around utility lines
  • Install proper drainage to keep soil around your home dry
  • Schedule annual inspections—catch issues before they start

Need help with any of this? Give us a call or reach out through our contact page.

Real Talk: What To Do If You Spot Termites

If you think you have termites, here’s what to do:

  1. Don’t disturb the site—this can make termites scatter and spread.
  2. Take photos or videos if you can (for your inspector).
  3. Call a pro ASAP—termite issues don’t wait.

The longer you delay, the worse the damage gets. ATCO’s crew can usually get out to you fast and start treatment right away.

FAQ: Subterranean Termites & Termite Control in the East Bay

Q: Are termites active year-round?
Yes. Especially subterranean termites, which don’t hibernate. They just burrow deeper when it gets cold.

Q: Do I need termite treatment if I haven’t seen any signs?
Not always—but a yearly inspection is a smart move, especially in high-risk areas like Richmond and the North Bay.

Q: How long does treatment take?
Most termite control plans can be started the same week. Some homes need just a few hours, others may take longer depending on the damage.

Q: Do you offer termite inspections for home sales?
We sure do. Reach out to schedule an inspection.

Let’s Get Ahead of the Termites

Subterranean termites won’t knock. They’ll just eat your house from the inside out. Whether you’re in Richmond, Berkeley, or Santa Rosa, termite control in the Bay Area starts with a real plan—and a local team who knows what they’re doing.

ATCO Pest Control has your back. We live here. We work here. We protect homes here.

When you’re ready to get serious about pest control in the North Bay or East Bay, we’re just a click away. Visit ATCO Pest Control and let’s protect your home the right way.

 

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