Subterranean and Drywood Termites

• Two termite varieties that most commonly cause damage to homes and other wooden structures are subterranean and drywood termites.
  
  Subterranean termites live underground in buried wood. Once their initial food supply is gone, the colony extends to above-ground structures by building "shelter tubes" on the wood.
  
  Unlike subterranean termites, drywood termites don't require soil moisture or contact with water to survive. These termites spend their lives inside a wooden object, doing damage as the colony grows. In the U.S., drywood termites can be found in locations that do not experience freezing temperatures during the winter.
  
  

Termite or Ant

• The winged, adult stages of termites and ants are called alates. Both insects look similar and people can often mistake one for the other. Upon closer inspection, each insect variety features distinct differences in the antennae, wings and waists.
  
  The antennae of a termite are beaded and relatively straight compared to the sharp elbow present in ant antennae. Both insects possess two pair of wings, but the termites' hind wings are of equal size whereas the ants' hind wings are smaller. The ants' waists are constricted where the thorax meets the abdomen, and the termites' waists are broad.
  
  

Detection

• The best time to identify the presence of termites is in the spring or fall. During these times of the year, the winged adult termites venture outside the nests to mate and form new colonies. They will often fly to windows or other light sources.
  
  Shelter tubes are a sign of subterranean termite activity. These small, earthen tubes stretch from the soil over foundations, masonry or wood supports.
  
  

Prevention

• To prevent a termite infestation in the home, locate and ventilate any areas of high humidity. Ensure that no contact exists wooden structures and the soil. Cap shut any cinder blocks, bricks or hollow masonry that is in contact with soil. Use downspouts to prevent the accumulation of rainwater around your home's foundation. Prevent drywood termites by using surface-treated or sealed wood.