How are Subterranean and Drywood Termites Different?

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Drywood and Subterranean Termites

Two Different Termites, Same Destructive Trait

Learn the differences 

There are several distinct ways that subterranean and drywood termites differ from each other, but the bottom line is that which ever type you are infested with it’s BAD NEWS. Damage caused by termites can be devastating to a home if a termite infestation is not treated in a timely manner. Being proactive and having an idea of what type of infestation you are dealing with will put you one step ahead of the pests. 

Let’s learn the differences between the two termite types.

Subterranean Termites

Subterranean Termites can be eliminated with Thermal Heat Treatment. 

  • Subterranean termites nest in the ground. They make mud tubes to tunnel the ground in order to infest your home. The mud tubes are protection against predators and dehydration. The tubes give them several points of entry into a structure.

  • Termite feces of the subterranean termite is cardboard like called “carton”, which is used for building their mud tunnels. Subterranean and drywood termites have different feces characteristics that are often used in identifying the type of termite infestation.

  • More particular feeders, subterranean termites will only chew on the softest part of the wood that is between the grains. They chew neat lined patterns that look to contain dirt.

  • Creamy white in color but can range from dark brown/black. They often look to be translucent.

  • Workers and soldiers do not have wings.

Above- Subterranean Termites

Drywood Termites

Drywood termites cannot be treated with Thermal Heat.

  • Drywood termites require less moisture needing no contact with the soil. Instead they use surrounding air to infest a structure.

  • Feces from drywood termites resembles salt and pepper piles, called “frass.” They use “kickout” holes to push the excrement through the wood.

  • Drywood termites feed across the grain, instead of with the grain or wood.

  • Color ranges from light brown to dark brown on into yellow. The termites color depends on the maturity and role they play within the colony.

  • The wings of a drywood termite are a smoky gray color.

  • Drywood termites are thick waisted with short legs, and straight antennas.

Above- Drywood Termites

Together with our sister company Black Knight Termite and Pest Control a full service termite and pest control company with over 20 years of experience, we can eliminate termites. Located in the heart of Temecula Wine Country we proudly not only serve the surrounding area but both Riverside and San Diego cities. Providing options with your control service. Thermal Heat is a non chemical treatment for wood destroying organisms and bed bugs. Termites can be one of the top reasons for home repairs, stop them before you are left thousands in debt. 

For any Termite and Pest questions and concerns please call us! 

951.870.0198

We can provide a Termite Inspection of a structure!