Historic Newport Beach Pavilion Treated for Termites

Newport Beach’s most famous landmark has had a termite infestation, but is finally getting the special treatment it needs. The Balboa Pavilion has been tented this week for fumigation.

The pavilion was built in 1906 and still stands at 400 Main St. According to the Daily Pilot, the structure is two stories and constructed of wood — and now needs fumigation for a termite problem. Since the structure is on the National Register of Historic Places, no major alterations can be made, nor can the structure be dismantled.

The pavilion was instrumental in the development of the area as a hub for seaside recreation and was, at one point, the terminus for the Pacific Electric Railway, which connected Newport Beach to downtown Los Angeles.

“Periodically, structures like this need to be fumigated, but you treat it with kid gloves because it’s an older building,” Dan Murphy, owner of Long Beach-based ChemFree Exterminating, told the Daily Pilot.

Because of the age of the building, its significance, and the historical designation, the fumigation must be done very carefully. This is the second time it has needed to be tented in the last 20 years.

“Like everything, foundation is key. We suggest all buildings sit on a proper foundation like gravel or concrete. For pavilions, we always suggest it sits on a concrete footing,” said Mike McCort, owner of Amish Mike, an outdoor furniture store. “Another thing that is very helpful is a shed that comes with a smart floor — we like to call it tough floor. The floor is sprayed with an insecticide to help prevent from termite damage.”

Termites could become a problem for homeowners in the coming months — since many residential pavilions are left unattended during the winter months. Homeowners usually have pavilions for the purpose of entertaining outdoors, so it’s important to check for termite damage before spring arrives to ensure the safety of using the structure.