Californian termites are of two main kinds, and Fresno gets both. Western drywood termites live entirely within dry wood and fly into homes through attic vents, eaves and cracks. Western subterranean termites nest in the soil and rise through foundation gaps, especially near irrigated landscaping and leaking plumbing. With a hot, dry climate that suits drywood termites and a network of irrigated yards that supports subterranean ones, Fresno homeowners in neighborhoods such as the Tower District, Fig Garden, Woodward Park and Sunnyside should keep an eye out.
PestMinistry is a referral service. We connect callers with independent, licensed termite providers in our network and do not conduct inspections or treatments ourselves.
Understanding the two types
Drywood termites produce hard, six-sided fecal pellets that look like fine sand or coffee grounds. They kick the pellets out of small holes and the pellets pile up below. Colonies are smaller than subterranean colonies, but a house can contain several. Swarms occur on warm days, typically in late summer and fall. Subterranean termites build mud tubes and swarm in spring, particularly after rain. Both types require different treatment strategies, so identification is a must.
Signs in Fresno homes
- Small piles of pellets below window sills, in attics or on garage floors.
- Discarded wings near windows, doors and light fixtures.
- Mud tubes on stem walls, piers or in crawl spaces.
- Hollow-sounding or blistered wood, especially at eaves and fascia.
- Pinpoint holes in wood that look like tiny punctures.
Where Fresno houses are vulnerable
Older craftsman bungalows and ranch houses often have raised foundations with crawl spaces, where moisture can collect and where termites can hide. Attic vents and eave overhangs, usually finished with exposed wood, are entry points for drywood swarmers. Stucco homes have wood framing behind the surface, and damage may not be visible. Patio covers, fences, trellises and sheds attached to the home give drywood termites more wood to colonize. Irrigation near the foundation is the usual culprit for subterranean activity.
Treatment approaches
- Full inspection of the attic, eaves, crawl space, garage and accessible wood.
- For limited drywood infestations: localized treatment of infested wood with injected or surface products.
- For widespread drywood activity: whole-structure fumigation or heat treatment.
- For subterranean termites: soil treatment around the foundation or baiting systems.
- Repair of moisture sources and replacement of damaged wood.
Fumigation requires you to vacate the home for a few days and prepare food and plants. Ask your provider for exact instructions.
Prevention
- Screen attic vents and seal cracks in fascia and trim.
- Paint or seal exposed wood.
- Keep sprinkler heads from spraying the foundation.
- Do not store firewood or lumber against the house.
- Arrange periodic inspections, particularly before selling.
Schedule an inspection
Call (844) 725-1661 and we will connect you with a licensed provider in our network who serves Fresno.
Fresno termite FAQs
What does a drywood termite pellet look like?
Tiny, hard, ridged and roughly the size of a grain of sand, in colors from tan to dark brown.
Do I always need fumigation?
No. Small, localized infestations can sometimes be handled with spot treatments. A professional inspection will advise.
When do termites swarm in the Valley?
Drywood termites often swarm in late summer and fall, subterranean termites in spring.
Can termites be in a newer home?
Yes. Newer homes can be infested, particularly if wood is exposed or moisture issues exist.