Each year termites infest about 600,000 homes and cause more than $5 billion in property damage. Termites can really cause you problems and destroy your home. These little creatures may be small, but they are mighty when it comes to destruction.
Wondering what types of termites there are and what they look like? We’ve got you covered. Keep reading to learn more about how to identify termites to protect your home.
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Drywood Termites
You can find Drywood termites in Alabama, Arizona, southern parts of California, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, and Texas.
These termites typically attack wood structures like frames, furniture, and flooring. They do not require moisture from the soil like most termites. This termites infestation is hard to protect and treat because they typically make multiple colonies within a home.Â
Even though they are found in warmer climates, they can survive in cooler Northern climates with the right conditions.Â
These termites are an orangish-brown color with a dark brown abdomen. Their wings appear smoky with pigmented black veins. They have a sloping forehead that can look flat from a side view, and there is a white eyespot on the head.
Dampwood Termites
You can find these termites in the Northwest and Southwest regions along with Southern Florida. States with Dampwood termites include Northern California, Florida, Idaho, Montana, Northern Nevada, Oregon, and Washington.
Dampwood termites can also survive without any soil contact. They do like wood with high moisture content, so they prefer decaying wood, woodpiles, and areas near leaks.Â
These termites have reddish-brown heads and are typically larger than other types of termites. Dampwood termites are less likely to invade homes because they need a water source.
Subterranean Termites
You can find these termites in every U.S. state, excluding Alaska. However, they prefer the hotter climates of the southern states.
These termites form large colonies. They eat through wood quickly, so they are extremely destructive. There are at least six species of Subterranean termites.
The Formosan termite is the most destructive because it has an extremely large colony size. These termites are darker than other termites and their bodies are a dark yellow-brown color.
Signs of Termite Damage
Wondering if you have a termite infestation to protect your home? Although it may not always be easy for an untrained eye to spot the damage, you can look for the following:
- Darkening or blistering on the wood’s surface
- Mud tubes on the exterior of the house (this is a food source)
- Bubbling or uneven paint
- Wood that sounds hollow when tapped
- Piles of feces that looks like sawdust near a nest
- Discard wings near doors or windowsÂ
If you see any of these signs, you should contact a professional immediately to assess and treat a possible termite infestation.
If you live in southern states or warmer climates where termites are more common, you may want regular inspections to make sure you catch any issues before they become big problems.
Know the Different Types of Termites to Protect Your Home
It’s important as a homeowner that you are familiar with the different types of termites and regularly inspect your home for any signs of infestation. Termites can damage a property quickly, so you need to act fast.
Looking for more advice to protect your home from Termites? Check out our Home section today.
