Subterranean Termite

The best method of subterranean termite control is to avoid water accumulation near the foundation of the home. Prevent subterranean termite access by diverting water away with properly functioning downspouts, gutters and splash blocks. Store firewood at least 20 feet away from the home, and keep mulch at least 15 inches from the foundation. Indoors, homeowners should reduce humidity through proper ventilation of crawl spaces, attics and basements to avoid attracting subterranean termite swarms.

Pest Stats

 Color

Creamy white to dark brown/black

 Legs

6

 Shape

Long, narrow and oval

 Size

1/8 inch long

 Antennae

Yes

 Region

Found throughout the U.S.

Habits

Subterranean termites build distinctive tunnels, often referred to as "mud tubes," to reach food sources and protect themselves from open air. They use their scissor-like jaws to eat wood 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Like other termite species, subterranean termites also feed on products containing cellulose. Subterranean termites swarm in the spring when groups of reproductive termites go off to start new colonies.

Habitat

Subterranean termites live in underground colonies with as many as two million members. They are also found in moist secluded areas above ground.

Threats

Subterranean termites are by far the most destructive termite species. The hard, saw-toothed jaws of termites work like shears and are able to bite off extremely small fragments of wood, one piece at a time. Over time, they can collapse a building entirely, meaning possible financial ruin for a homeowner. If you suspect a termite infestation, contact a pest professional about subterranean termite treatment.

Subterranean Termite Prevention

The best method of subterranean termite control is to avoid water accumulation near your home's foundation. Divert water away with properly functioning downspouts, gutters and splash blocks. Reduce humidity in crawl spaces with proper ventilation. Never bury wood scraps or waste lumber in the yard. Most importantly, eliminate wood contact with the soil. Maintain a one-inch gap between the soil and wood portions of the building.

Drywood termites can be avoided by making sure firewood and scrap wood is stored at least 20 feet from the home. Another drywood termite treatment tactic is to seal all cracks and crevices around the foundation of the home. Homeowners should also routinely inspect the property for signs of drywood termites, paying special attention to window and doorframes, trim, eaves, siding and attics.

Pest Stats

 Color

Creamy white to light brown

 Legs

6

 Shape

Long, narrow and oval

 Size

3/8 to 1 inch long

 Antennae

Yes

 Region

Primarily found coastally from South Carolina westward to Texas and up the west coast of California

Habits

Drywood termites form colonies of up to 2,500 members. Unlike subterranean termite species, drywood termite colonies do not have a worker caste, as the work is done by immature termites before they reach adulthood. Drywood termites usually swarm on sunny, warm days after a sudden rise in temperature.

Habitat

Drywood termites infest dry wood, like that found in attic framings. They can be transported to new locations via an infested piece of furniture, a picture frame, etc.

Threats

Drywood termites can chew through support beams, floors and walls, causing expensive home repairs. In fact, drywood termites and other termite species cause a collective $5 billion in property damage each year.

Drywood Termite Prevention

Drywood termites can be avoided by making sure firewood and scrap wood is stored at least 20 feet from the home. Drywood termites form new colonies by gaining access to wood through small holes. As a drywood termite treatment tactic, seal all cracks and crevices in a structure.

As the name suggests, dampwood termites infest wood with high moisture content. Dampwood termites are normally larger in size than other termite species.

Pest Stats

 Color

Creamy white to brownish

 Legs

6

 Shape

Long, narrow and oval

 Size

1/2" - 5/8 inch long

 Antennae

Yes

 Region

Found throughout the pacific coastal and adjacent states, the desert or semi-arid southwest, and southern Florida

Habits

Dampwood termite colonies, like drywood termites, have no worker caste. The nymph dampwood termites take care of the kings and queens of the colony and feed the soldier caste. These termites create a series of chambers in wood, which are connected by tunnels with smooth walls, as if sandpapered.

Habitat

Dampwood termites are usually found in logs, stumps, dead trees, fence posts and utility poles.

Threats

Dampwood termites do not usually infest structures because of their need for excessive moisture. However, care must be taken to avoid attracting dampwood termites to a structure, as they can cause serious property damage. In fact, dampwood termites and other termite species cause a collective $5 billion in property damage each year.

Dampwood Termite Prevention

To avoid dampwood termites, homeowners should eliminate sources of moisture by diverting water away from the home's foundation. It's important to repair leaking faucets, water pipes and AC units on the outside of the home as dampwood termites are often drawn to these areas. Firewood should be stored at least 20 feet away from the house. To prevent dampwood termites indoors, reduce humidity by properly ventilating crawl spaces, attics and basements.