How to Treat Drywood vs. Subterranean Termites

The best course of action when it comes to termite control depends on whether you’re dealing with subterranean or drywood termites. As the names imply, drywood termites nest within the wood on which they feed, while subterranean termites nest underground and travel up to their food source when they need to. Because of their different nesting habits, drywood and subterranean termite infestations require different treatment methods.

Please note that it’s always a good idea to call pest control professionals for help before attempting to handle an infestation yourself. There’s no guarantee that you’ll be able to take care of the entire infestation on your own. At times, eliminating an infestation may even call for the use of chemicals which require a licensed professional to apply.

Treating Drywood Termites

According to Agricultural Digest’s 2022 guide to treating termites, the most effective ways for treating drywood termites are as follows.

1. Boric acid. This pesticide kills termites via dehydration. It should be used cautiously, however, as it poses a potential danger to children and pets.
2. Orange oil and neem oil. Both orange and neem oil are essential oils that slowly prevent termites from reproducing. According to Agricultural Digest’s guide, they are best for less serious termite problems.
3. Removing and repairing damaged wood. Not only is this a suggestion from Agricultural Digest, but an article from The Spruce also mentions that certain termites require wet or damaged wood to infest, and all it takes to remove them is to remove the wet or damaged wood they need.

Treating Subterranean Termites

A report on termites and termite control from the EPA lists the following as methods of eliminating subterranean termites.

1. Biological control agents. These agents include fungi or microscopic nematodes that poison termite colonies over time.
2. Physical or termiticide barriers. This treatment method involves the use of either soil termiticides or physical structures to place a barrier between the subterranean termite colony and its food source.
3. Termite Baits. The EPA report states, “These systems rely on cellulose baits that contain a slow-acting insecticide.” When a termite takes the bait, they poison themselves and potentially other termites they come into contact with.

Get Professional Help

If you have a termite or pest control problem in the greater Los Angeles area, or you’re looking for more information on the subject, feel free to contact us. We’ll work with you to decide on a treatment plan that works best for you and your pest control needs.