What to Know About Drywood Termites and Subterranean Termites in Burke

Termites are annoying insects to handle and you will never want to have them in your house. While there are many termite species available, subterranean and drywood termites are the most common. The main difference between these species is where they live. While drywood termites live inside the wood, their subterranean counterparts live underground. No matter the species of termites that have been infesting your home, a pest control company in Burke can eliminate the entire colony for you. 

Drywood Termites vs Subterranean Termites

There are various differences between these two species, particularly in terms of their physical characteristics such as their bodies and colors. But here are other factors that differentiate the two species:

• Wings. Drywood termites have complex systems of veins. Because of this, each of their wings has 3 to 4 veins. Subterranean termites have black or dark brown wings that have one thick vein.
• Excrement. Both species have different eating habits. The excrement of drywood termites has six sides, resembling fine sand grains. Subterranean termites leave behind cardboard-like excrement known as cartons.
• Feeding patterns. Drywood termites prefer dry wood that does not require plenty of moisture to survive. That is why this species infests and feeds on antiques, furniture, or home structures. Meanwhile, subterranean termites are more choosey with the food they eat and just chew on the wood’s softest part.
• Damage. Subterranean termites cause more damage than drywood termites. This is because they have bigger colonies. As these termites live underground, you may only learn about a subterranean termite infestation once the pests have done serious damage. But because dyewood termites infest and live in drywood, they can cause more serious structural damage than subterranean termites.

How Termites Enter Your House

Drywood and subterranean termites enter your house differently. Drywood termites enter your house when their swarmers fly to the wood through your attic, window frame cracks, or foundation vents. Also, they can gain entry into your home through untreated wood you may bring inside. Meanwhile, subterranean termites enter your house through the foundation soil or foundation wall cracks. They can also gain entry through mud tubes, which allow them to travel to and from their nests to find a food source. 

How to Eliminate Termites

Because moisture is a factor that draws subterranean termites, you need to keep your house dry to minimize or eradicate termite populations. Also, this can prevent future infestations. Make sure to check your house for clogged drains and leaky pipes. Also, a dehumidifier can be used in crawl spaces to decrease moisture. 

Meanwhile, drywood termites can be eliminated and treated by keeping lumber or firewood away from your house. Also, you must inspect any furniture or wood you bring inside and ensure drywood termites have not infested them. 

Professional Termite Control

To effectively treat a termite infestation, hire a pest control expert to get the job done. A reputable pest control company can help offer you the best solutions to eradicate any species of termites and other pest issues. They will thoroughly inspect your property first and provide the best solution.