Drywood Termites vs. Subterranean Termites

Termites are a serious and prominent problem for property owners in Orlando. Termite infestations are infamously expensive; every year, termites cause Americans $5 billion in damages. That’s why it’s so important to learn how to prevent them. Termites are common here in Orlando due to our warm, humid climate. 

There are two common types of termites to worry about: drywood termites and subterranean termites. We’ll discuss the differences between these two types of termites below.

Common Termites in Orlando

The main difference between these two types is that drywood termites infest dry wood and do not require contact with the soil, while subterranean termites need contact with soil or water to survive. In general, the subterranean termite is a much bigger threat to Orlando property owners year-round – causing up to 95% of the entire country’s termite damage.

All termites have three distinct castes with different appearances and functions in the colony. These castes are the workers, soldiers, and reproductives (or alates.) Most distinctly, alates of both groups have wings and may be confused with winged ants.

Drywood Termites

• They are larger than subterranean termites.
• These termites live and nest within wooden structures or dry wood. They do not need contact with soil to live.
• The most common sign of a drywood termite infestation is their frass – their droppings. Since drywood termites remove their frass from their nests, it can appear in piles near the infestation site. It resembles sawdust.

Subterranean Termites

• They are smaller than drywood termites.
• They need constant moisture to survive and thus usually live in soil. They need a connection to the ground to keep their nest and tunnels humid enough to survive. They do this by building mud tubes.
• Mud tubes are the top sign of subterranean termites. A mixture of soil, wood, saliva, and frass, these tubes are dark brown and can often be found near the foundation or along floor joints inside the building.

How to Prevent Termites

Termites thrive in Orlando because of the climate. You can’t control the weather, so there’s only so much you can do on your own. However, there are a few measures you can take to mitigate your home’s risk of termite infestation.

• To deter subterranean termites, it’s important to eliminate any moisture problems in your property. This includes ensuring your yard has good drainage and fixing leaky pipes promptly.
• To deter drywood termites, keep scrap wood or firewood away from your property. Regularly inspect your deck or patio for signs of damage. 

Regardless of the type of termite you’re worried about, the best defense against them is to get regular inspections from your local termite control company. Early detection is key, so make sure you get in touch with a professional the moment you suspect a termite problem.

Drywood Termites vs. Subterranean Termites in Orlando

Identifying termites without a termite exterminator is difficult. Getting rid of them without a professional is nearly impossible! The team at Heron Home And Outdoor has the years of experience required to keep you termite-free. We are proud to use the industry’s best termite treatment options that will protect you from the dangers of termites year-round.

Give us a call to get started with a free quote!

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