Subterranean termites are a serious and costly problem for Florida homeowners. These wood-destroying pests thrive in Florida’s warm, humid climate, making nearly every home vulnerable to an infestation.
If left untreated, subterranean termites can cause thousands of dollars in structural damage. Knowing how to identify early warning signs and take preventative action can help protect your property from expensive repairs.
What Are Subterranean Termites?
Unlike drywood termites, which nest inside wood, subterranean termites live in the soil and build mud tubes to access food sources. These insects feed on cellulose, which is found in wood, paper, and drywall.
Common Subterranean Termite Species in Florida:
| Species | Details |
|---|---|
| Formosan Subterranean Termites | Known for their massive colonies and ability to cause rapid damage. |
| Reticulitermes Termites | A less aggressive species but still a major threat to homes. |
🚨 Warning: Subterranean termites can enter your home through tiny cracks in foundations, pipes, and walls, making prevention and early detection crucial.
Why Are Subterranean Termites a Problem in Florida?
✔️ Year-Round Activity – Florida’s warm, humid climate allows termites to stay active all year long.
✔️ High Colony Density – With an average of 13-14 colonies per acre, Florida homes are at constant risk.
✔️ Moisture Dependency – These termites are drawn to damp environments, making homes with leaky pipes, clogged gutters, or untreated wood more vulnerable.
🚨 Fact: Worker termites never stop feeding, meaning that even a small infestation can lead to extensive structural damage over time.
Signs of a Subterranean Termite Infestation
Detecting termites early can prevent costly damage. Here’s what to watch for:
1. Mud Tubes
✔️ Pencil-sized tunnels made of mud and debris
✔️ Found along walls, foundations, and crawl spaces
✔️ Act as sheltered highways between the colony and food sources
2. Swarmers (Alates)
✔️ Winged termites that appear during swarming season (spring and summer)
✔️ Attracted to light sources near windows and doors
✔️ Discarded wings near entry points
3. Hollow or Damaged Wood
✔️ Subterranean termites hollow out wood from the inside, leaving behind a honeycomb pattern
✔️ Wood sounds hollow when tapped
✔️ Blistering paint or warped surfaces
4. Frass (Droppings)
✔️ Small, wood-colored droppings
✔️ Found near walls, baseboards, and window frames
🚨 Tip: Even if you don’t see termites, these signs indicate potential infestation. A professional inspection can confirm their presence.
How to Get Rid of Subterranean Termites
If termites have already invaded your home, immediate treatment is necessary to minimize damage.
🛑 Termite Treatment Options:
✔️ Bait Stations – Worker termites carry poison back to the colony, eliminating the infestation over time.
✔️ Liquid Termite Treatments – A chemical soil barrier prevents termites from reaching your home.
✔️ Foundation Trenching – Creating a trench around your home and applying treatment blocks termite access.
✔️ Treated Wood Repairs – Replacing damaged or untreated wood with termite-resistant materials.
🚨 Best Solution: A professional termite control plan can stop active infestations and prevent future damage.
How to Prevent Subterranean Termite Infestations
Prevention is key to keeping termites away. Here’s how you can reduce the risk of an infestation:
✔️ Fix Leaky Pipes and Gutters – Termites need moisture to survive. Fix leaks, clean gutters, and ensure water drains away from your foundation.
✔️ Use Treated Wood – For decks, fences, and crawl spaces, use termite-resistant wood to discourage infestations.
✔️ Seal Foundation Cracks – Termites enter homes through tiny cracks in the foundation. Seal all gaps to block their access.
✔️ Remove Stumps and Debris – Keep wood piles, mulch, and dead trees away from your home.
✔️ Reduce Soil-to-Wood Contact – Keep wooden structures, siding, and landscaping timbers off the ground.
✔️ Install Termite Bait Stations – Professional bait stations detect and eliminate colonies before they spread.
🚨 Annual Inspections – Routine pest control inspections can help catch early termite activity before major damage occurs.
Protect Your Home with Professional Termite Control
Termites aren’t just a nuisance—they’re a serious threat to your home’s structure and value. If you suspect an infestation, acting fast can save you thousands in repairs.
At On Demand Pest Control, we specialize in subterranean termite treatment and prevention. Our expert team offers customized solutions to keep your home termite-free.
📞 Schedule a Free Termite Inspection Today!
