Subterranean Termites vs Drywood Termites in South Florida

South Florida Termite Control: Types of Termites

In South Florida, our warm, humid, and tropical weather is the perfect environment for termites to thrive. If these silent destroyers invade, their damage to your home or property can be devasting and could cost thousands of dollars in repairs. In Florida, there are two common types of termites that homeowners should be aware of: drywood termites and subterranean termites. To prevent these termites, it’s important to understand their differences and methods to keep them from infesting. Read more to learn about drywood termites and subterranean termites.

Common Termites in South Florida

Drywood Termites

• These termites are brown or white and are larger than subterranean termites.
• They live and nest within wooden structures or dry wood.
• They do not need contact with the soil to live.
• One of the most common signs of their infestation is spotting frass, which can appear in piles in the infestation and often looks like sawdust.

Subterranean Termites

• There are two kinds of subterranean termites, the solider and the alate or flying termites.
• These termites need a water source to survive and will live in the soil to get it.
• These termites build tunnels and nests underground to ensure it’s humid enough and where they can obtain water.
• A sign of their infestation is seeing mud tubes, a mixture of soil, wood, saliva, and feces.
• You can often spot mud tubes along a home’s foundation or floor joints inside a building.

Preventing Termites in South Florida

Preventing both types of termites is essential to protecting the structural integrity of your home. When preventing subterranean termites, look to eliminate any moisture problems from your property, including that your yard has good drainage, fixing leaky pipes, and removing items that can hold water like buckets or old tires. Likewise, make sure that you are being cautious of the areas where there is soil-to-structure contact. For drywood termites, keep firewood at least 20 feet from the home and elevated off the ground, and regularly inspect your deck or patio for signs of damage.

One of the best ways to ensure your home is termite free is to get regular termite inspections from your local termite control company. These professionals will be able to give your home a thorough inspection and recommend the best prevention plan to avoid future termite infestations.