Understand subterranean vs drywood termites

What to Do

Determine which termite type you are dealing with because the treatment approach differs completely.

Subterranean termites (including Formosan): Build colonies in soil and use mud tubes to access homes. The most destructive and common type. Colonies can number hundreds of thousands to millions. Treated with liquid barriers or bait systems.

Drywood termites: Live directly inside the wood they consume without soil contact. Found primarily in southern coastal states. Smaller colonies (under 10,000). Produce distinctive hexagonal fecal pellets. Treated with fumigation or localized wood treatment. Bait stations do not work on drywood termites.

Why It Works

Using the wrong treatment wastes money and leaves the infestation active. Bait stations installed for drywood termites provide zero protection. A liquid barrier applied for drywood termites in upper-story wood is equally ineffective.

Tips

• A professional inspection is the most reliable way to identify the species
• Subterranean termites are found throughout most of the US; drywood termites primarily in coastal southern states