Drywood Termites

Drywood termites, unlike the dampwood variety, can live inside of and feed off of dry wood. They do not require a water source, and can live inside any source of dry wood for a long time. A single wooden structure, like a door, can have multiple drywood colonies in it at the same time.

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Pest Description

Drywood Termite Habits

Drywood termites burrow and live exclusively in dry wood. They can do substantial damage to a structure, all without being detected. Drywood termites don’t need water, and they don’t live in the soil. Evidence of an infestation usually includes discarded wings, or frass (piles of sawdust and feces created from their feeding).

Preventing Drywood Termites

Drywood termites can hollow out a structure from the inside out, leaving a thin layer of wood between their tunnels and the outside, making it very difficult to detect them. Because of their ability to stay hidden, drywood termites can cause huge amounts of damage. The best way to prevent drywood termites is to make sure they never enter the structure to begin with. Sealing foundations, cracks, windowsills, and doorframes is often necessary to fully protect your home, as is plugging and sealing utility holes.

Beyond sealing your entire home, your property should be inspected regularly. Try and keep trees and shrubs away from your home, and inspect all furniture before it comes inside.

Eliminating Drywood Termites

A licensed pest control professional should be called to inspect the building if a termite infestation is suspected. A termite exterminator should also inspect the property, ensuring that it is adequately sealed.