Inland Southern California has long been drywood termite territory, and San Bernardino is no exception. Here, hot, dry conditions mean the termites that matter most are the ones that live in sound, dry timber rather than in damp soil. Many San Bernardino houses date from the postwar building boom and are made of wood framing wrapped in stucco, which is a sealed shell that conceals damage until it is advanced.
What lives in the Inland Empire
Western drywood termites fly in from nearby colonies, enter through attic vents, fascia gaps or cracks in trim, and set up small colonies inside the wood. They don't need soil contact or much moisture. Pellets are the giveaway: tiny, hard and six-sided, kicked out of small holes and accumulating below. Western subterranean termites still occur, particularly around leaks, planters, irrigation lines and slab penetrations. Dampwood termites are less common here because the region is dry, but they can appear in wet wood from plumbing leaks.
Why older stucco homes are exposed
Postwar bungalows and ranch homes on the Westside, around Perris Hill and in the older parts of the city often have original wood fascia, eave boards and attic vents that have aged and cracked. Layers of paint hide small holes. Detached garages, patio covers and wood fences give colonies stepping stones. Attics in dry climates remain warm and undisturbed, which is ideal for drywood termites to spread slowly through rafters and roof sheathing. Swarms, which commonly occur on warm days between late summer and fall, can land on any exposed wood in the vicinity, so even a well-kept house is vulnerable.
Warning signs for owners
- Small piles of granular pellets under window sills, in the garage or on patio slabs.
- Translucent wings gathered near doors and windows after a warm evening.
- Wood that sounds hollow when tapped or has tiny round holes that may be plugged.
- Paint that is blistered or rippled without an obvious water source.
- Mud tubes on foundation walls or in the garage, indicating subterranean activity.
Inspection and treatment options
A state-licensed structural pest inspector examines the attic, eaves, garage, exterior wood, and the slab perimeter or subarea. California real estate deals typically require a written report. When drywood termites are widespread, whole-structure fumigation is the standard approach, because the gas reaches every void. For small, accessible infestations, local treatments such as drill-and-inject foam, borate or heat may be appropriate. Subterranean termites are treated through soil applications, trenching or baits. Replacing damaged wood is a separate carpentry job. Ask the provider to explain the extent of activity and why they favor a method.
Keeping termites at bay
- Paint and seal all exposed wood, including end grain on fascia and rafter tails.
- Screen attic vents with fine mesh and repair gaps in trim.
- Fix leaks promptly and avoid sprinklers that spray stucco walls.
- Move firewood, lumber and cardboard away from the house.
- Schedule an inspection every year or two, and before you buy or sell.
Reaching a San Bernardino provider
PestMinistry does not inspect or treat homes. Call (844) 725-1661 and we will connect you with a licensed independent termite professional who serves San Bernardino and can explain your options in plain terms.
Can I smell or hear drywood termites?
Rarely. Evidence is usually pellets, wings or damaged wood rather than sounds or smells.
Do I have to leave home during fumigation?
Yes. People, pets and plants must be out for a few days.
Are termite swarms dangerous?
No, but they signal a colony nearby, so it is smart to schedule an inspection.
Does heat in the Inland Empire stop termites?
Not inside wood. Drywood termites thrive in attic temperatures.