Drywood Termites

One of the worst pests that Florida is known for is our termites. These little pests can cause up to billions of damage a year. Pictured below are what we call dry wood termites. These types can only eat about a fist-full of wood a year, making them one of our more mild types in the state of Florida. Drywood termites are also on the smaller side for colonies. Pictured below are some Drywood termites and the damage they produce over time. Here are some things to consider when you see signs of termites: -Fecal pellets are ejected periodically -Winged insects emerging in evenings and night (they are attracted to types of light) -Discarded wings accumulating around window sills or in spider webs -Wooden pellets (much smaller that rice grains) accumulating on floors or under furniture. Typically colored pellets are cream to reddish-brown or black (color is not relevant to the type of wood). -Pellets usually fall into piles as the termites push them out of the infested wood -Typically, our flying ants can be mistaken as termites, but if they do not look like what is pictured below, then they are NOT termites! Here's some options to consider if you suspect the indication of termites: -EDUCATE YOURSELF! Many major companies will gain money where they can. There is NO such thing as a pest control contract in the state of Florida, so be sure to ask questions! Most pest control companies will only cover you for one type of termite. Be sure you go with a company that can treat for our 2 most common- drywoods and subterranean. -Tenting is NOT an effective way to prevent any termites returning. Once the tent is released, then the product is no longer efficient. Using liquid treatment is the best plan of action, as it soaks and stays in the wood for many years! Be sure to ask your tech on years for coverage. Bait systems are also not as effective. -Do not hesitate to get more opinions! We have seen first-hand misdiagnosis of types of termites, which leads to a lot of confusion for an anxious customer. For us to come and take a look at suspected areas- it is completely free of charge! For more information on our types of termites, here are some websites that can help with understanding and guide for the best plan of action on removal. -https://www.fdacs.gov/.../Termites/Subterranean-Termites -https://www.fdacs.gov/.../06-Consumer_Info_Drywood...