Termite Knowledge Hub | Mariners Pest Control

Types of
Termites

General Overview of Different Types of Treatment Options

Subterranean

Termite

Subterranean termites live underground and build mud tubes to reach food sources. They require constant moisture and are the most destructive termite species, capable of causing severe structural damage quickly. Early detection and treatment are critical to prevent costly repairs.

Drywood

Termite

Drywood termites nest directly inside dry wood, such as framing, furniture, or flooring. They do not need soil contact and often go undetected until damage becomes extensive. Their presence is usually revealed by small piles of pellet-like droppings known as frass.

Dampwood

Termite

Dampwood termites prefer wood with high moisture content, often infesting areas with leaks, plumbing issues, or ground contact. They create smooth, clean galleries inside the wood. While less common than other species, their presence signals underlying moisture problems that need correction.

Subterranean Termites

Identification, Damage, Prevention & Treatments

Subterranean termites are the most common and destructive termite species in the United States. They live underground, build mud tubes for travel, and feed on the cellulose found in wood. If left unchecked, these pests can silently cause thousands of dollars in damage to your home. Here’s what you need to know.

How to Identify

Subterranean Termites in Your House

Mud Tubes: Pencil-sized tubes along your foundation, walls, or crawl space.
Damaged Wood: Hollow-sounding wood or surfaces with blistered paint.
Swarmers: Winged termites (often mistaken for flying ants) appearing in spring or after rain.
Discarded Wings: Found near windowsills, doors, or light fixtures.

Mud Tubes

Damaged Wood

Swarmers

Discarded

Wings

The Damage They Could Do

Subterranean termites can eat wood 24/7, slowly hollowing out beams, floors, and walls. Over time, this weakens your home’s structure and reduces property value. Repairs can be costly, sometimes reaching into the thousands if infestations are left untreated.

Ways to Prevent Subterranean Termites

Preventing subterranean termites starts with reducing their access to food, water, and shelter around your home. Since these termites live underground and thrive in moisture, homeowners can take proactive steps to make their property less inviting.

1. Eliminate Excess Moisture

Repair leaking faucets, pipes, and A/C condensation lines.
Keep gutters and downspouts clear so water flows away from the foundation.
Grade soil around your home so water doesn’t pool near the base.
Use a dehumidifier in crawl spaces or basements.

2. Protect Wood Around the Home

Keep firewood, lumber, and cardboard stored off the ground and away from your house.
Replace or repair any wood that is in direct contact with soil.
Use pressure-treated lumber in outdoor projects like decks or fences.

3. Seal Entry Points

Fill cracks and gaps in your foundation and around utility lines.
Check window frames, door frames, and vents for openings where termites could enter.
Install screens on exterior vents to keep pests out.

4. Maintain Your Yard

Remove tree stumps, fallen branches, or decaying wood that could attract termites.
Keep shrubs and mulch at least 12 inches away from your foundation to allow airflow.
Trim plants and landscaping so they don’t trap moisture against walls.

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Types of Termites

Subterranean Termites

How to Identify

Subterranean Termites in Your House

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The Damage They Could Do

Ways to Prevent Subterranean Termites

1. Eliminate Excess Moisture

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2. Protect Wood Around the Home

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3. Seal Entry Points

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4. Maintain Your Yard

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Protect your home. Tell us about your project today.

Types of
Termites

Protect
your home.
Tell us about your project today.