06/15/2026
Drywood Termites are a type of termite that infest dry wood, including structural timbers, furniture, and hardwood flooring. Unlike subterranean termites, they do not require contact with soil and can live entirely within the wood they consume.
🔍 Identification
Size: About 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) long
Color: Pale brown to dark brown
Wings: Winged reproductives (alates) have two pairs of equal-length wings
Frass (droppings): Small, dry, pellet-like droppings pushed out of the colony — often the first visible sign
🏚️ Damage Caused by Drywood Termites
Structural Damage:
Hollowing out wood beams, joists, walls, and floors
Weakening the integrity of wooden structures over time
Furniture Damage:
Infest antique or hardwood furniture
Leave behind blistering or cracked paint from internal damage
Harder to Detect:
No mud tubes (unlike subterranean termites)
Damage is often hidden inside the wood until it becomes extensive
🧪 Signs of Infestation
Frass piles (tiny, ridged pellets)
Clicking sounds from within walls
Blisters or sagging in wood surfaces
Flying termites or shed wings near windows
🛠️ Treatment & Prevention
Local treatment: Heat, microwave, or spot chemical injections for small infestations
Whole-structure treatment: Fumigation (tenting) is often required for larger infestations
Prevention:
Seal cracks and crevices in buildings
Regular inspections (especially in dry, coastal areas)
Store wood properly and away from your home
Would you like help identifying signs of drywood termites in your home or property? Give us a call to schedule your free inspection/estimate 863-967-6146