Vent Screens

Some older attic vents are screened with ¼-inch mesh. While this larger screen is effective at keeping rodents out, it’s large enough for drywood termite swarmers to squeeze through.

This matters because once termite swarmers enter the attic, they have access to exposed, unpainted wood. Since drywood termites can establish a colony anywhere they land on untreated wood, attics are especially vulnerable. To make matters worse, most homeowners rarely venture into their attics, allowing termites to go unnoticed for years. By the time the damage is discovered, the infestation may be so widespread that fumigation becomes the only practical treatment option.

Modern California fire codes require smaller vent screening to help prevent wind-blown embers from entering the attic during a wildfire. Replacing older ¼-inch mesh with ⅛-inch or 1/16-inch mesh not only helps reduce the risk of drywood termite infestations but may also bring your home closer to current fire safety standards.