Known as the “silent destroyer” of homes, termites are destructive pests that can easily decimate a property or home. Considered to be social insects, each colony consists of a nest with thousands of individuals measuring between 0.16 to 0.59 inches. Since these pests feed on mostly cellulose-based plant material, they are attracted to homes through the wood that they come into contact with.
Termites are a major problem for homeowners across Texas. These small insects can cause serious structural damage if left unchecked. In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at termites in Texas – the main species, the signs of an infestation, and how to get rid of them.
The Most Common Termite Species in Texas
There are three main types of termites that are found in Texas:
Subterranean Termites
These termites nest underground and tunnel up into the wood of homes. The three most common subterranean termites in Texas are:
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Eastern Subterranean Termite: The most economically damaging termite species in the US. Found across northern Texas.
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Formosan Subterranean Termite: An aggressive Asian species now widespread across Texas metro areas.
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Western Subterranean Termite Causes major damage to homes across western Texas
Drywood Termites
Drywood termites nest inside wood with low moisture content. The Western drywood termite is most prevalent in western Texas.
Dampwood Termites
Dampwood termites thrive in wood with higher moisture levels. The Desert dampwood termite is common in Texas homes with water leak issues.
Why Termites Are a Threat in Texas
Termites are capable of inflicting severe damage on Texas homes and trees. Here are some of the major threats posed by termites:
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Structural Damage Termites tunnel into walls, floors ceilings and foundations compromising structural integrity.
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Furniture Damage: Termites easily destroy furniture, cabinets, bookshelves, etc.
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Flooding Risk Mud tunnels built by subterranean termites can lead to water leaks
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Tree Damage: Termites damage citrus groves and ornamental trees either below or above ground.
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Health Risks: Termite droppings and wings can trigger allergies and asthma.
When Do Termites Swarm in Texas?
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Spring: The peak season for swarming across most termite species.
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Summer: Many subterranean termites swarm during the hot months.
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Fall: Termites may continue swarming after rainfall into the fall.
Swarming occurs when a mature colony sends out winged reproductives to start new colonies. This is when homeowners may see large numbers of flying termites.
Signs of a Termite Infestation
Watch for these common signs that termites have invaded your home:
- Stuck doors or windows
- Piles of discarded wings
- Mud tubes against foundations or walls
- Wood that sounds hollow when tapped
- Damaged wood with tunnels
- Clicking noises coming from inside walls
If you spot these signs, contact a pest control professional immediately to inspect for termites. Finding and treating an infestation early is key to preventing severe damages.
Getting Rid of Termites in Texas Homes
Here are some effective ways to eliminate termites and prevent future invasions:
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Fix any moisture issues: Repair leaky roofs, pipes and clogged gutters that can attract termites.
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Reduce indoor humidity: Install dehumidifiers and improve ventilation to make your home less welcoming.
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Clear debris: Remove dead trees, fallen limbs and mulch that provides termites access.
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Install termite baits: Use baits/stations containing slow-acting insecticide around the perimeter.
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Treat infestations: Contact a professional pest control company to treat existing termite problems.
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Use termite-resistant building materials: Choose concrete, steel, plastic or treated lumber when building/remodeling.
Preventing Termites in Texas Homes
Here are some key prevention tips Texas homeowners should follow:
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Maintain proper clearance between soil, wood and your home’s exterior.
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Ensure all foundation walls have effective termite barriers.
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Inspect your home annually for signs of termites.
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Keep firewood, mulch and woodpiles far from your home.
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Fix any moisture issues immediately to avoid attracting termites.
With proper prevention and vigilance, Texas homeowners can protect their homes from destructive termite infestations. But if an infestation does occur, take action right away by contacting a licensed pest professional.
What do Western Drywood Termites Eat?
The Western Drywood termites like to feed on undecayed wood that have a low-moisture content. As they do not have contact with the soil, they are often found outside of their geographical areas by frequently being carried by infested furniture or other wooden objects and feeding on it. You can determine if you have a drywood termite infestation based on their eating pattern, which goes across the grain, not with the wood.
The Subterranean termite, scientifically known as the Reticulitermes spp., Coptotermes spp., or Heterotermes spp., is among one of the most common species of Texas termites. A huge pest problem, the subterranean termites has one the largest insect nests in America, growing as many as 2 million individuals when they swarm in the spring. Their habitat of choice is underground in the soil but can also be found in moist secluded areas above ground.
The swarmer class can be identified by their dark-brown to black color, and approximately ¼ to ½ inch long pairs of wings. Their worker class is cream in color and about ¼ inch in size or less. Soldier termites are easily distinguished through their large mandibles, creamy-white color, and brownish colored heads.
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As termite season generally occurs in hotter and more humid areas, Southern states are hit with termites more frequently. With numerous termite species inhabiting and affecting the Texas region, there are 3 more common types of termites that you should be aware of:
- The Desert Dampwood Termite
- The Western Drywood Termite
- The Subterranean Termite
In this article, we provide in-depth information about each common species of termites in Texas and answer questions such as: What do termites look like? When is termite season? And more.
The Desert Dampwood termite, scientifically known as the Paraneotermes simplicicornis, is a species that prefers semi-arid and arid southwest regions and emits a strong distinctive odor. Larger than both the drywood and subterranean species, these termites can get up to almost an inch long. As swarm season is during the day from May until September, it is important to know that this species of swarmers can be identified through their dark brown bodies and wings. Additionally, their soldiers have a brown or yellowish color with an antenna on either side of their heads. However, nymphs can be identified through their cream color and spotted abdomens.
Unlike subterranean termites, dampwood termites don’t usually have contact with the soil, thus do not create mud tubes/tunnels. Instead, they are commonly found in dampened wooden areas that are kept damp through water leaks or excessive moisture from standing water.
The Ultimate Guide to the Most Common Types of Termites in Texas | Hero Pest Control | Waco, TX
FAQ
Are termites common in Texas?
As swarms are instigated during warm temperatures and heavy rains, drywood termites in Texas are quite frequent due to the abundance of humidity in the air. Furthermore, this species does not build mud shelters, do not live in the ground, and prefer to have their colonies in low-moisture, non-decayed wood.
What are the signs of termites in your home?
- Buckling or blisters in wood flooring. …
- Hollowed or damaged wood. …
- Swarmers (flying termites) …
- Discarded termite wings. …
- Hard to open doors and windows. …
- Mud tubes. …
- Drywood termite droppings (frass) …
- Live termites found during remodeling.
How to get rid of Texas termites?
Suppose my home has drywood termites. How can I get rid of them? Answer: You have three options: spot treatment, fumigation or physical removal of infested wood. But a wood-penetrating gas fumigant is the only sure way to get them all.
How long is termite season in Texas?
| Type of Termites | Swarming Season |
|---|---|
| Subterranean Termites | Spring and early summer |
| Drywood Termites | Late summer to early fall |
| Dampwood Termites | Varies with moisture availability |