Property owners need a basic understanding of termites. Can you answer the following questions?

Q: How many types of termites are there? A: Over 2600 species have been identified by experts. Of those only 55 live in the U.S. Homeowners only have to worry about 2 types: subterranean termites and drywood termites.

Q: How are they different? A: Termites are social insects. That means they live in colonies. The location of the colony is different depending on the type of termite. Subterranean termites live in underground colonies because they need more moisture to survive. To feed they tunnel to into homes nearby. Drywood termites nest inside the structures they feed on. They depend on moisture from inside or nearby the structure to survive.

Q: How would I know if termites have invaded my home? And how do I tell the difference between the different types? You may detect subterranean termites when they swarm in the spring. At that time the colony splits to begin other colonies. Mud tubes on the foundation or walls is a sign of subterranean termites. All termites leave wood that may look broken, blistered or weak. Discarded wings or piles of “sawdust” may indicate that drywood termites were present in the past or are currently present.

Q: I see none of these signs. Is my home free of termites? A: Unfortunately, no. Termites remain hidden on the inside of the wood as they do damage. For that reason they’re very hard to detect.

Q: What’s the difference between flying ants and swarming termites? A: If you can catch one, look at them up close. You’ll notice that termites have straight antennae, where ant antennae are bent. Another difference is that ants have a narrow waist and termites have a thick waist.

Q: I’ve heard that older buildings are the prime target of termites. Is that correct? A: Termites don’t target older buildings, they just target wood. They’ve been found in brand new construction. Any wooden structure will attract termites.

Q: Is there anywhere in the U.S. that’s free from termites? A: Other than Alaska? No. Subterranean termites are present in all of the lower 48 states plus Hawaii. Drywood termites are limited to most of the coastal regions of the U.S. plus the desert southwest.