Termites are a common pest found throughout Newcastle and across the world. However, not all termites are the same. In fact, there are two main types of termites that homeowners and businesses need to be aware of: subterranean and drywood termites. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at these two types of termites, including their characteristics, signs of infestation, and treatment options. By understanding the differences between them, you can choose the most effective treatment and better protect your property from costly damage.
Subterranean Termites: The Silent Destroyer
Subterranean termites are known as the “silent destroyers” due to their ability to cause significant damage without anyone noticing. These termites live in the soil and build underground colonies. They are the most common type of termite found in Newcastle and are active all year round.
Characteristics:
- Subterranean termites are pale and measure about 1/4 inch long.
- They build underground colonies and tunnels to reach aboveground food sources.
- They are active all year round, and they require moisture to survive.
Signs of infestation:
- Mud tubes that extend from the ground to the woodwork
- Swarmers (winged termites)
- Hollow-sounding wood
Treatment options:
- Liquid Termite Treatment: This involves injecting a chemical solution into the soil around the building to create a barrier that termites cannot cross.
- Baiting Systems: This involves placing bait stations around the building to attract termites. Once the termites consume the bait, they will die, and the colony will eventually collapse.
Drywood Termites: The Hidden Pest
Drywood termites are less common than subterranean termites but can still cause significant damage to homes and businesses. Interestingly, they live inside the wood and do not require contact with the soil. They are most active during the summer months.
Characteristics:
- Drywood termites are about 1/4 inch long, and their colour ranges from yellowish to dark brown.
- They live inside the wood and do not require contact with the soil.
- They are most active during the summer months.
Signs of infestation:
- Small, round faecal pellets are kicked out of the woodwork
- Swarmers (winged termites)
- Damaged or hollow-sounding wood
Treatment options:
Fumigation: This involves tenting the building and filling it with a gas that will kill the termites.
Localised treatments: This involves injecting a chemical solution directly into the infested wood to kill the termites.
How to Tell the Difference Between Subterranean and Drywood Termites
It can be difficult for homeowners and businesses to tell the difference between subterranean and drywood termites. However, there are a few key differences to look out for.
Subterranean termites:
- Build underground colonies and tunnels to reach aboveground food sources.
- Require moisture to survive.
- Are active all year round.
- Leave behind mud tubes.
Drywood termites:
- Live inside the wood and do not require contact with the soil.
- Are most active during the summer months.
- Leave behind small, round faecal pellets.
At Newcastle Pest Exterminators, our team can identify the specific type of termite infestation and recommend the best treatment options. We’ll work with you to protect your property and that the infestation is properly dealt with.
Protecting Your Property from Termites
Termites can cause significant damage to homes and businesses, and it’s important to understand the differences between subterranean and drywood termites for effective treatment. Subterranean termites live in the soil and build underground colonies, while drywood termites live inside the wood and do not require contact with the soil.
Understanding the characteristics, signs of infestation, and treatment options for each type of termite is crucial for protecting your property.
At Newcastle Pest Exterminators, we have the knowledge and experience to help you protect your property from termites. Additionally, our team of experienced technicians is trained to identify the specific type of termite infestation and recommend the best treatment options. That’s why we use safe and effective methods to eliminate pests, and our team is licensed, insured, and always ready to help you get rid of your pest problem. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and get started on the path to a pest-free property.
