How to tell Florida’s two termite types apart, and why it decides your treatment.
Quick answer: subterranean termites live in the soil and build mud tubes to reach wood — they are the most common and damaging type in Southwest Florida and need a liquid barrier or Sentricon bait. Drywood termites live inside the wood and leave frass (pellets); widespread infestations may need tent fumigation.
| Subterranean | Drywood | |
|---|---|---|
| Where they live | Soil, travel to wood | Inside the wood |
| Telltale sign | Mud tubes | Frass pellets |
| Moisture need | High (soil contact) | Low |
| Treatment | Liquid / bait | Localized or tenting |
Both eat wood from the inside out. Subterranean colonies are huge and cause damage faster, which is why they are the priority in SW Florida. Drywood termites spread slower but can establish in furniture, attics, and trim far from the ground.
Subterranean termites are stopped with a soil barrier or eliminated with bait stations. Drywood termites are treated locally when contained, or with whole-structure fumigation when widespread. A professional inspection confirms which you have before any treatment.
New to termites? Start with our Florida Termite Guide.
Subterranean termites are the most common and damaging in Southwest Florida; drywood termites are also common in coastal and older wood.
Yes — it happens, which is why a professional inspection that identifies the species is important before choosing a treatment.
No — localized treatment works when the infestation is contained. Tenting is for widespread drywood activity.
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