Termite Inspections and Control

As their name states, subterranean termites live underground, sometimes up to several feet underground. These termites need to maintain contact with soil and moisture. Like their relatives, the Formosan termite who is also of the subterranean species, they create mud tubes to get themselves into your home. Subterranean termite species are found in every U.S. state except Alaska, though they are more common in humid, southern states like Florida.

Formosan termites are a species of subterranean termites. These wood munchers are always hungry and eat 24/7. Formosan termites boast the largest colonies of any termite species in North America. Other subterranean species can have over a million termites in a colony, but Formosan colonies have up to 15 million! The workers in these colonies chew up wood, then regurgitate it to feed the others. They use their shelter, and mud tubes to maintain ideal temperatures and hide from predators. Their eating habits entail burrowing into pieces of wood and eating only the soft portions along the grain. This particularly invasive species is primarily found in the Southeastern U.S., and you guessed it, they are rampant in Florida.

Drywood termites are small, pale insects known for their ability to infest and damage wooden structures. Their bodies range from creamy white to light brown in color. Unlike subterranean termites, drywood termites do not require contact with soil and can live entirely within the wood they infest. These termites infiltrate homes by swarming, typically during warmer months, seeking out new nesting sites. They often enter through small cracks, gaps, or exposed wood surfaces, making their way into attics, crawl spaces, and furniture. Once inside, they establish colonies within the wooden structures of the building, consuming the cellulose material and causing structural damage over time. In Florida, drywood termites are notably abundant due to the state's warm and humid climate.

Asian termites are a highly destructive species prevalent in Florida due to the warm, humid region. They resemble typical subterranean termites, with creamy white to light brown bodies and straight antennae. However, they are typically larger in size compared to native subterranean species. These termites infiltrate homes and structures through soil-to-wood contact, entering through cracks in foundations, expansion joints, or other openings. Once inside, they establish expansive colonies within the structural elements of buildings, including walls, floors, and ceilings. Unlike drywood termites, Asian termites require contact with soil for moisture and survival, often building mud tubes to travel between their nest and food sources. Their aggressive feeding habits and large colony sizes make them a significant threat to structures, causing extensive damage if left unchecked.