Drywood Termites vs. Dampwood Termites – Key Differences
Termite infestation is a widespread problem in various parts of Florida. Every homeowner should be on the lookout for these pests. You probably know that termites cause structural damage, but did you know that there are different types of them?
Different termites bring different problems. Knowing which one you are dealing with is important to determine the right treatment approach. This is why you should trust Avata professionals for the job instead of a DIY. Since they may look similar, it becomes difficult to tell them apart.
Today’s blog will discuss two common termites found in Florida– Drywood and Dampwood termites. Read along to find out the key differences between them, including appearance and behavioral patterns.
Dampwood vs. drywood termites: Infestation
First of all, it is important to understand what kind of wood a dampwood and drywood termite infest.
Dampwood termites prefer wood with a higher degree of moisture, which is hinted in their name. They mostly target decayed wood that gets it moisture from the soil or has excessive moisture exposure. These may include leaky pipes, humid environments, etc.
If you are on the lookout for these termites, you can typically find them in felled timber, dead trees, stumps, and even decayed wood from living trees. Therefore, if you live in an area with high moisture, your property most likely has dampwood termites.
On the other hand, drywood termites love sound or non-decayed wood. Unlike dampwood termites, they do not look for contact with the soil for moisture. Their moisture requirement is either fulfilled through the wood they use or their own metabolism.
Due to these factors, drywood termites are most likely to enter your property. They are not just looking for timbers and structural wood but indoor wooden furniture, flooring, and other wooden articles as well. They can infest anything that is made of wood.
Identifying drywood and dampwood termites
Homeowners have a hard time trying to differentiate between the two types of termites. This table might help you understand the key differences between their appearance.
| Feature | Drywood termites | Dampwood termites |
| Size | Smaller; soldiers: 3/8 to 1/2 inch (9-13 mm), swarmers: 7/16 to 1/2 inch (11-13 mm) | Larger; soldiers: 1/2 to 5/8 inch (13-16 mm), swarmers: 3/4 inch (19 mm) |
| Color | Cream-white to light brown | Light to dark brown or reddish-brown |
| Body structure | Thick, oval-shaped waist; soft cylindrical body | Long, narrow, oval bodies |
| Antennae and legs | Straight antennae and six legs | Straight antennae and six legs |
| Wings | Wings are equal in size, longer than the body, translucent with few veins | Wings are equal in size, larger, and brownish, with more veins |
| Fecal pellets | Six-sided, ridged pellets | Oval-shaped, smooth pellets |
Which termite causes the worst infestations among drywood and dampwood?
Termites cause more than $5 billion worth of damage annually in the United States, with a substantial portion of this being in Florida.
In terms of damage, drywood termites win every single time. They are aggressive, and once they have infested a wooden structure, they cause irreparable damage. Through their eating, they develop termite galleries or chambers within the wood they infest. This is why you hear a hollow sound when you tap an infested wooden object.
On the other hand, the damage caused by dampwood termites is not nearly as much severe. Subterranean and drywood termites can cause massive destruction. Dampwood termites can also cause damage, but they mostly target damp wood. Moreover, they are smaller in number than drywood termites. Therefore, the damage is less, resulting in lower repair costs.
Fight back against termites today!
Living with termites is not what people have in mind when they build their houses. Florida indeed has a termite problem, but you do not have to leave the state to get away from these critters. If you think there is an infestation and the problem is escalating, hire a termite control team today!
