Subterranean and Drywood Termites
Port St. Lucie homes face two very different kinds of termites. Knowing which one you have decides how it's treated, so it helps to recognize the signs before you call.
Request pest controlSubterranean termites
These live in colonies in the soil and need moisture. They reach wood through mud tubes built up foundations, slab cracks and pipes, and they can do serious damage out of sight.
Drywood termites
These live entirely inside dry wood such as window frames, attic framing and furniture, with no soil contact. They push out tiny six-sided pellets that pile up below their galleries.
Mud tubes
Pencil-width brown tubes on a slab edge, stem wall or garage wall almost always mean subterranean termites.
Pellets
Small piles of sand-like pellets on windowsills or the floor point to drywood termites above.
Swarm season
Winged swarmers appear in spring and early summer, often near lights. A swarm indoors means a colony nearby.
Treating subterraneans
Liquid soil treatments or bait systems around the house.
Treating drywoods
Spot treatments for small areas, or tenting for widespread infestations.
Inspections
A yearly inspection catches activity early, before damage spreads.
Next
See termite treatment.
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