According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), nearly 1 in 5 bones in the U.S. is affected by termites. The staggering statistic is not about just numbers – it’s a wake-up call for homeowners across the country.

Drywood termites – What you should know 

Drywood termites tend to live in the wood they infest and do not need contact with the soil, making them a hidden threat in homes.

Signs to look out for 

Recognizing drywood termite infestations early can mean the difference between a minor fix and a major repair. Here are some signs to watch for.

• Termite droppings (Frass) 

Though the drywood termites are sneaky by never leaving the furniture, they have to excrete and the droppings are the most telling signs of these species. The termites push out the droppings through the holes and if you notice small, cylindrical, and dark pellets just near the infested wood then consider it a red flag that drywood termites might be nesting in your home.

• Damaged wood 

Drywood termites are good hiders but they too leave some signs. Small and minute holes in the wooden furniture especially with the presence of termite droppings indicate drywood termite activity. Make sure to check the furniture, windows, and doors for damage.

• Hollowing sound 

Drywood termites eat wood inside out which in time makes the wood hollow. If you tap on the wood, you might hear a hollow sound and also notice a thin veneer of the wood on the outside. Blistering of the wood is another sign of drywood termite damage.

• Swarmers 

When it’s the mating season (the warmer months), the drywood termites swarm to establish new colonies. If you notice flying ants like insects in your home or dropped wings then it might be an indication of infestation.

While the droppings are indicative of drywood termites, they can also be a sign of dampwood termites. Also, drywood termites can be confused with other structural pests like wood boring beetles and carpenter ants. Hence if you notice any of these signs, immediately contact a professional termite company. An expert will be sent to check your house and will provide you with a confirmative answer about the type of infestation.

Also Read: Facts About Drywood Termites That Will Blow Your Mind

Drywood termite treatments vs Subterranean termite treatments - What’s the difference? 

Unlike drywood termites, subterranean termites require mandatory contact with the ground to thrive. Thus subterranean termite treatment involves cutting off that contact and also finding and eradicating the subterranean termite colony underground.

When it comes to drywood termite treatments, can be divided into two types – whole structure and localized treatments. After inspection, the termite control expert will determine the extent of damage and would suggest a suitable treatment method.

• Whole structure treatment 

This treatment is recommended when the infestation is extensive and is in multiple places. This has the advantage of eliminating the infestation as a whole – even taking care of the ones in hidden places.

Fumigation involves putting up a specialized tent around the structure and filling it up with termiticide gases which help eliminate the termites. The fumigation treatment should be properly monitored during every step and the occupants along with the pets and plants should be evacuated until the treatment is over.

Heat treatment is an alternative for people who require non-chemical solutions. This method involves heating the wood in the structure to a minimum of 120°C and maintaining this temperature for around 30 minutes. Heat treatment might be beneficial for people looking to treat part of larger structures like apartments and condominiums. The occupants of the house to be treated should evacuate but the treatment would be over in a short period unlike fumigation – which might take days.

• Localised treatments 

If the infestation is confined to one or two spots then localised treatments should be your choice. There are chemical and non-chemical treatments available. Chemical treatments involve applying termiticides which the termites must come in contact with or ingest for the colony to be eradicated. Make sure to choose licensed termite companies that offer licensed products.

As for non-chemical localized treatments, several options are available. Heat treatments can be used for localized infestations too.

Microwave treatment involves sending microwaves which kill the termites by literally cooking them dry. This treatment leaves no chemical residue and the machine is also highly portable. However, finding the infestation spaces is critical to the success of this treatment.

Electrocution or using high-voltage electricity on the termites is also another option. The termites are electrocuted to death by using high voltage but a low current. The success of the treatment might be limited due to the interference of common building materials like metal, glass, and concrete.

Prevention is the key 

Rather than worrying about the infestation after it runs rampantly through the property, finding ways to detect it early is the best choice. Annual termite inspections from professional and licensed termite control companies can help catch the infestations in the bud and provide necessary treatments to stop them from spreading.

HiTech Termite Control 

Drywood termites might be small but the damage they can inflict to your property is anything but trivial. Schedule a professional inspection with us today and take the first step toward safeguarding your home. Contact us here.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What are the signs of a drywood termite infestation?

 Signs include termite droppings (frass), hollow-sounding wood, small holes in wood, and the presence of swarming termites.

2. How do drywood termite treatments differ from subterranean termite treatments?

 Drywood termites require whole-structure or localized treatments, while subterranean termites need treatment to cut off their ground contact.

 3. What is whole-structure treatment for drywood termites?

 Whole-structure treatment involves fumigation or heat treatment, targeting termites throughout the home, even in hidden areas.

 4. What is localized treatment for drywood termites?

 Localized treatments focus on specific areas of infestation using methods like chemical termiticides, heat, microwave, or electrocution.

 5. How can I prevent drywood termite infestations?

 Regular annual inspections from licensed termite control professionals can help detect infestations early and prevent serious damage.