Termites Work Year-Round: What Every Bay Area Homeowner Should Know

Let’s be real—when most folks in the Bay Area think about termites, they think about springtime. That’s when you see those clouds of winged bugs swarming around a porch light or sneaking into the garage. But here’s the kicker: termites don’t pack up and leave after swarm season. Nope. They’re clocking in 24/7, 365 days a year, quietly chewing away behind your walls.

And that’s the scary part. You might not see them, but they’re there.

Do Termites Really Work Year-Round?

Yep. Termites don’t take vacations, holidays, or long weekends. Once a colony is established, they’re constantly tunneling, feeding, and expanding. Unlike ants that might slow down in winter, termites keep right on working as long as the temperature underground or inside your home stays mild—which in California’s Bay Area, it usually does.

Even on a cool December morning in Union City or Richmond, your walls, crawlspaces, and soil stay cozy enough to keep termites moving. Think of them like construction crews that never punch out.

Why the Bay Area Is Prime Termite Territory

The East Bay, North Bay, San Francisco—all of it—makes the perfect playground for termites. Mild winters, damp fog, older homes with wood framing, and the occasional rainy season? That’s a recipe termites love.

• Moisture-rich soil from winter rains gives subterranean termites exactly what they need.

• Mild coastal weather means no freezing cold to slow them down.

• Historic neighborhoods like Alameda, Berkeley, and parts of San Francisco often have wood that’s been in place for decades—ideal termite food.

So while you’re enjoying patio weather in January, termites are still munching away in the beams below you.

Signs Termites Are at Work (Even in Winter)

You’d be surprised how many homeowners call us in January, February, or July with termite issues. Common signs include:

• Mud tubes along your foundation or crawlspace.

• Soft, hollow-sounding wood when you tap on beams or trim.

• Tiny droppings (frass) that look like sawdust.

• Wings piled up near windowsills or vents.

• Doors and windows sticking because wood is being eaten away.

Honestly, most folks don’t notice these until damage is obvious. That’s why a yearly termite inspection isn’t just smart—it’s critical.

Why DIY Fixes Don’t Cut It

I get it. You see a couple of wings or some soft wood and think, “I’ll just spray something from the hardware store.” Problem is, termites aren’t hanging out on the surface. They’re deep inside the structure, where your spray won’t reach.

I once had a homeowner in Walnut Creek who tried DIY termite spray for months. By the time he called us, the support beam under his living room had been hollowed out. That “quick fix” ended up costing him thousands in repairs.

If you’re dealing with termites in the Bay Area, you need real termite control—professional tools and a plan that goes beyond the surface.

Termite Control Bay Area: What Works Best

At ATCO Pest Control, we focus on Integrated Pest Management (IPM). That means we don’t just dump chemicals and walk away—we create a strategy that’s smart, effective, and as eco-conscious as possible.

Here’s what that looks like:

• Thorough inspections to find where colonies are hiding.

• Targeted treatments like bait systems and liquid barriers.

• Moisture control around the foundation, since termites love damp soil.

• Ongoing monitoring so you’re not caught off guard.

We’ve been protecting homes in Union City, Richmond, and across the East Bay for decades. Trust me, once termites move in, you don’t want to wait.

👉 Learn more about our termite control services here.

FAQs About Termite Control in the Bay Area

Q: Do termites really cause damage in the winter?
A: Yep. Our mild Bay Area climate means termites stay active year-round. Just because you don’t see swarms doesn’t mean they’re not working.

Q: How often should I get a termite inspection?
A: At least once a year. Homes in older neighborhoods or near the water (like Alameda or San Francisco’s Sunset District) may need more frequent checks.

Q: Can I prevent termites completely?
A: You can lower your risk with good moisture control, sealing cracks, and keeping wood away from soil. But regular inspections are your best defense.

Why Call ATCO for Termite Control in the East Bay and Beyond

We’re a local team. We know the quirks of Bay Area homes—from San Francisco’s old Victorians to Union City’s mid-century ranches. And we know exactly how termites behave here.

Whether you’re in the East Bay, North Bay, or down in Union City, we’ve got your back. ATCO has been helping families protect their homes for decades, using smart, effective pest control strategies tailored to California’s unique climate.

Want to stop termites before they turn your home into Swiss cheese? Contact our team today.

Quick Takeaways

• Termites don’t stop after spring—they’re active all year in the Bay Area.

• Mild weather and older homes make our region prime termite territory.

• DIY sprays won’t cut it—colonies are hidden deep inside wood and soil.

• Yearly inspections are the smartest way to catch problems early.

• ATCO offers termite control in San Francisco, Union City, and throughout the East Bay and North Bay.

Bottom line? Termite control in the Bay Area is a year-round job—and ATCO Pest Control is here to help keep your home standing strong.

👉 Schedule your inspection today.