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Quick, low-risk steps
- Preserve any wings or specimens in a sealed container without applying pesticide.
- Photograph visible damage, mud tubes, or frass from a safe, accessible location.
- Avoid disturbing structural wood or concealed areas that may hide activity.
- Contact a Georgia-licensed structural pest-management professional for identification.
- Ask the professional to explain how they identified the termite species.
Appearance and Behavior
Subterranean termites are typically creamy white to dark brown and have soft bodies. They live in underground colonies and travel through mud tubes to reach wood. These tubes protect them from drying out and from predators. Drywood termites are usually larger, with a more cylindrical body, and can range from pale brown to dark brown. They live directly inside dry wood without needing soil contact.
Both types have winged swarmers, but their wings differ. Subterranean swarmers have two pairs of long, equal-length wings with a few distinct veins. Drywood swarmers have wings with a more complex vein pattern and often shed them quickly after swarming. Swarming season and time of day can also vary, but these patterns are not reliable for identification without professional training.
- Subterranean termites require moisture from soil and build mud tubes.
- Drywood termites infest dry, sound wood and do not need soil contact.
- Subterranean swarmers are often dark brown to black; drywood swarmers can be reddish-brown.
- Frass (termite droppings) from drywood termites is pellet-like and may be found below infested wood.
- Subterranean termites use their droppings mixed with soil to build tunnels.
Signs of Infestation
Subterranean termite signs include mud tubes on foundation walls, floor joists, or other surfaces. These tubes are about the width of a pencil and may be found in crawlspaces or basements. Damaged wood may appear layered, with soil in the galleries. Drywood termite signs include small piles of frass that look like sawdust or coffee grounds, often found beneath infested wood. You might also see tiny kick-out holes in the wood surface.
Both types can cause blistering or darkening of wood surfaces. However, subterranean termite damage often follows the grain of the wood and contains soil, while drywood termite galleries are clean and smooth. Tapping on wood may reveal hollow sounds, but this is not a definitive test. Only a professional inspection can confirm the species and extent of damage.
- Mud tubes indicate subterranean termites and should not be disturbed before inspection.
- Frass piles are a key sign of drywood termites.
- Blistered or darkened wood can be a sign of either type.
- Hollow-sounding wood may indicate internal damage.
- Swarmers indoors or discarded wings near windows suggest an active infestation.
Treatment Differences
Treatment methods differ significantly between the two types. Subterranean termite control often involves soil treatment with liquid termiticides or bait systems to eliminate the colony. This requires a licensed professional who follows the product label exactly. Drywood termite treatments may include localized wood treatment, heat, or fumigation, depending on the extent of infestation. Each method has specific safety and occupancy requirements.
Because the treatment approach depends on accurate identification, a professional will inspect the property thoroughly. They may use moisture meters, borescopes, or other tools. Never attempt to treat termites yourself with over-the-counter products, as improper application can make the problem worse and pose health risks. Always verify the professional's Georgia license and ask for a written treatment plan.
- Subterranean termites are often treated with soil-applied liquid termiticides or baits.
- Drywood termites may require direct wood treatment or whole-structure fumigation.
- All termiticides must be applied according to the EPA-approved label.
- Ask your professional to explain why a specific treatment is recommended for your situation.
- Ensure you receive occupant and pet safety instructions before treatment begins.
Prevention and Monitoring
Preventing subterranean termites involves reducing moisture around the foundation, fixing leaks, and ensuring proper drainage. Keep wood debris, mulch, and firewood away from the house. For drywood termites, seal cracks and crevices in the exterior, and inspect any reclaimed wood or furniture before bringing it inside. Regular professional inspections are the best way to catch infestations early.
After treatment, monitoring is essential. Your professional should schedule follow-up inspections to check for renewed activity. For subterranean termites, this may include checking bait stations or soil barriers. For drywood termites, look for new frass or kick-out holes. Keep records of all treatments and inspections, as they may be needed for warranty claims or future real estate transactions.
- Eliminate wood-to-soil contact around your home.
- Maintain gutters and downspouts to direct water away from the foundation.
- Seal exterior cracks and screen vents to reduce drywood termite entry.
- Schedule annual professional inspections, especially in high-risk areas.
- Keep a file of all termite treatment and inspection records.
Take this with you
Evidence and scope checklist
- Did the professional explain how they identified the termite species?
- Is the treatment plan specific to the identified termite type?
- Does the quote include inspection findings and identification evidence?
- Will the treatment involve drilling, trenching, or fumigation?
- Are the product label and application method clearly stated?
- What are the occupant and pet safety instructions during and after treatment?
- What follow-up inspections are included?
- Are wood or moisture corrections recommended?
- What are the warranty or retreatment conditions?
- Is the professional licensed by the Georgia Department of Agriculture?
Common questions
What homeowners ask next
Can I tell the difference between drywood and subterranean termites myself?
It is difficult for an untrained person to reliably distinguish between termite species. Physical characteristics can be subtle, and signs like frass or mud tubes may be hidden. Misidentification can lead to ineffective treatment. Always consult a licensed professional for accurate identification.
Do I need different treatments for drywood and subterranean termites?
Yes. Subterranean termites are typically controlled with soil treatments or baits, while drywood termites often require direct wood treatment or fumigation. Using the wrong method will not eliminate the colony and may allow damage to continue.
Are drywood termites common in Georgia?
Drywood termites are less common in Georgia than subterranean termites, but they can be found, especially in coastal areas. Subterranean termites are widespread throughout the state. A local professional can advise on the prevalence in your specific area.
Evidence
Sources used for this guide
Research checked July 31, 2026
- Termites: how to identify and control themU.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Identification uncertainty, licensed treatment, and label-compliant control.
- Introduction to Integrated Pest ManagementU.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Multi-step prevention, monitoring, and control principles.
Optional next step
Need an on-site professional?
Use the guide and worksheet first so you can describe the situation and compare the full scope. A referral is optional; you can also contact a licensed local provider directly.
We have not enabled a provider route for this site. Use the checklist to contact and verify local providers yourself; urgent hazards should go to the appropriate emergency or public service.