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Pest control for your business
Presto-X provides termite control for businesses.
Termites are among the most destructive pests in the world. Each year, they damage homes and businesses across the country, leading to costly repairs. Learn more about the lifecycles and habits of these pests — and how to identify them.
When it comes to protecting your home, knowing the types of termites you're dealing with is essential. Different termite species behave in different ways, live in different environments, and can cause varying levels of termite damage. Timely and accurate termite identification can help identify early signs of a termite infestation and the right approach to treatment. If you’re ever unsure about which type of termites you have, or if you have them at all, you can rely on Presto-X’s termite control to help.
Dampwood termites are among the largest termite species in the U.S. Find out all about them below.
Dampwood termites have reddish-brown bodies, and their large size helps set them apart from other insects. Winged reproductives (termites that can reproduce) are often mistaken for flying ants but tend to be broader with straighter antennae and a thick waist.
As their name suggests, dampwood termites prefer wood that’s moist. They're often found in decaying trees, stumps, or wood that's been exposed to water damage. Unlike subterranean termites, they don’t usually build colonies underground, as they don’t need contact with soil. Dampwood termites are typically less destructive than other termites, as they go no further than moist wood.
Because they live inside moist wood, these pests are harder to spot. You may notice smooth, clean tunnels inside wood structures. There are usually no mud tubes, as subterranean species build. If you live in a damp climate or have areas of your home with poor ventilation or leaks, it’s worth checking for signs of termite infestation.
Drywood termites are smaller than other types but can still cause significant damage. Learn more about these pests below.
Drywood termites have light brown to dark brown bodies, depending on the species, and straight antennae. The reproductives have two sets of wings that are equal in size and shape.
Unlike other types of termites, drywood termites don’t need contact with soil. They nest inside dry wood, from attic beams to furniture. Their colonies are much smaller compared to subterranean termites, but over time, they can still cause serious problems.
Tiny wood-colored droppings, called frass, are a common sign of drywood termites. You might also notice blistering wood, hollow-sounding beams, or damage to furniture.
These little pests can be the most destructive to properties. If you think you’ve got a subterranean termite infestation, get in touch with us right away.
Subterranean termites are pale or creamy in color, while the reproductives can be dark brown or black. These are the termite species most people think of when they picture a termite. Their workers are small and soft-bodied, while their soldiers have larger heads and strong jaws.
These pests live in the soil and need moisture to survive. Their colonies can grow large and extend deep underground. They build mud tubes to travel safely from their nest to food sources, often unnoticed by property owners.
Subterranean termites can cause more structural damage than any other type in the U.S. Common signs include cracked paint, hollow-sounding wood, sagging floors, and, of course, the presence of mud tubes.
Drywood and subterranean termites behave differently and need different treatments. Spotting the difference isn’t always easy without training. If you see signs like droppings, damaged wood, or mud tubes, it’s time to call the professionals at Presto-X. We can help identify the termite species and build a treatment plan to help protect your home.
If you’re dealing with drywood and subterranean types of termites, we can help (Presto-X doesn’t deal with dampwood termites). Our technicians are trained in termite identification and control methods that target the root cause of the termite infestation.
If you’re worried about a termite infestation, reach out to us. We offer practical, effective solutions to all types of pest problems, including termites.
Look for signs like droppings, mud tubes, or hollow wood, and note where the activity is happening. The location and type of damage can help narrow down the termite species. You can also call in a Presto-X professional, who can help identify them.
Subterranean termites often cause the most structural damage in the U.S. because they build large colonies underground and feed on wood.
If you see frass (termite droppings) near dry wood, it may be drywood termites. Mud tubes or signs near the soil usually point to subterranean termites.