Types of Termites

Controlling Drywood Termites
It is important to properly identify what type of termite is present, since this will determine what type of control will be required. It is best to collect a couple of soldiers as well as winged specimens or wings. These can be shown to your pest control operator for positive identification.

The galleries themselves may serve as a further indication that drywood termites are present. The galleries run against the grain of the wood. Subterranean termites and carpenter ants run with the grain, letting the harder wood serve as the walls of the galleries.

Drywood termite colonies are small, which makes them more difficult to spot. Because of this it is very important to carefully inspect all woodwork, especially attics, baseboards, windowsills, floor joists, and furniture for termite pellets and/or damaged wood.

The type and extent of treatment depends on the number and size of colonies. Early detection of a colony may only require removing and replacing the damaged wood. Heat and electricity are also used with varying degrees of success. Spray or foam applications to raw wood will prevent drywood `termites from entering the wood and may control existing termites, depending on the situation. It may be necessary to tent the whole structure for fumigation. Although this method is very expensive and leaves no residual protection, it is usually the only alternative when many termite colonies are present.

Preventive Measures
Used lumber, furniture and other wooden articles should be carefully inspected for termite infestations.
All windows, doors and vents, especially those in the attic, should be screened with 20 mesh screen to keep reproductives from entering.

• Paint will give exposed wood protection against termite entry.
• Fill all cracks and crevices with putty or caulk before painting.
• Pressure treated wood should be used where possible, as it is termite resistant for an extended period of time.
• Certain woods are naturally resistant to termite attacks. Among these are:
  • Heartwood of redwood
  • Bald cypress
  • Mahogany
  • Spanish cedar.
  • Weathering, however, will reduce their resistance.
• Use of repellent chemicals such as borates.