Subterranean Termites
Subterranean termites in Florida are the most destructive termite species, responsible for the majority of termite damage statewide. Unlike drywood termites that live inside wood, subterranean termites nest underground and build mud tubes to travel between soil and food sources. They feed nonstop on cellulose found in wood and paper, often going unnoticed until serious structural damage appears.
Because they thrive in moist, warm environments, their presence is often linked to plumbing leaks, poor drainage, or wood-to-soil contact. Early detection and professional treatment are crucial to protect your home’s foundation and prevent costly repairs.
What Subterranean Termites Look Like
Subterranean termite colonies consist of three main castes — workers, soldiers, and swarmers.
Key identifying features include:
- Workers: creamy white, soft-bodied, about ⅛ inch long.
- Soldiers: pale with enlarged brown heads and strong mandibles.
- Swarmers (reproductives): dark brown or black with long, equal-length wings.
- Mud tubes: thin, brown tunnels along walls or foundations used for travel.
Behavior and Nesting Habits
Subterranean termites live underground in large colonies that can number in the hundreds of thousands. They require moisture to survive, building intricate tunnel networks that connect their nest to wood sources.
They’re most active from spring through early fall, especially after rainfall or humidity spikes.
Common nesting sites include:
- Soil beneath foundations and slabs
- Crawl spaces or under porches
- Wooden fence posts or deck supports touching soil
- Tree roots, mulch beds, or buried wood debris
Signs of a Subterranean Termite Infestation
- Pencil-sized mud tubes on foundations or walls
- Discarded wings near windows, doors, or light fixtures
- Hollow-sounding wood when tapped
- Blistering paint or warped wood surfaces
- Tight-fitting doors or windows from structural swelling
⚠️ If you see mud tubes or shed wings, a colony is likely active beneath your home. Contact us Today >>
Subterranean Termite FAQs
How do I know if I have subterranean termites?
Look for mud tubes on walls or foundations, discarded wings near windows, and hollow-sounding wood. These are classic signs of an active underground colony.
Can subterranean termites damage concrete foundations?
They can’t chew through concrete, but they can squeeze through tiny cracks or expansion joints to reach the wood inside your structure.
What attracts subterranean termites to my home?
They’re drawn to moisture and wood contact with soil. Leaky plumbing, damp basements, mulch, and wood piles close to the house make ideal conditions.
How long does it take to eliminate subterranean termites?
With professional baiting and soil treatments, most infestations are controlled within a few weeks, though follow-up monitoring ensures full colony elimination.
How can I prevent subterranean termites from coming back?
Maintain good drainage, fix leaks quickly, keep mulch and firewood away from walls, and schedule annual termite inspections with a licensed specialist.
Get Your Free Termite Control Quote
Subterranean termites can cause severe structural damage long before they’re visible. Our Florida-licensed termite specialists locate colonies, treat the source, and protect your property with proven soil and baiting systems.
Seeing termite activity or mud tubes around your home? Request your free quote today and protect your home from further damage.
Damage Caused by Subterranean Termites
Subterranean termites cause billions of dollars in damage annually. They feed on wooden beams, floors, and drywall from the inside out, leaving a thin exterior layer intact — hiding destruction until it’s severe.
Common Damage Examples:
- Hollow beams or floors that sag
- Wood that easily breaks when probed
- Mud tunnels weaving through walls or insulation
- Structural weakening around plumbing or HVAC lines
💡 Left untreated, colonies can consume a pound of wood per day — making early professional treatment >> vital.
How to Get Rid of Subterranean Termites
DIY Steps
- Eliminate standing moisture and fix all leaks.
- Remove mulch, stumps, and wood debris near foundations.
- Keep firewood stored off the ground and 20+ feet from your house.
- Ensure gutters and downspouts direct water away from your foundation.
- Seal foundation cracks and utility gaps.
Professional Treatment
Subterranean termites are impossible to eliminate with surface sprays alone. Our technicians perform comprehensive inspections and use:
- Liquid soil barriers to block entry points.
- Colony baiting systems to eliminate entire nests.
- Follow-up monitoring to ensure lasting protection.
Contact us for Professional Subterranean Termite Treatment >>
Prevention Tips
- Keep soil levels below siding by at least six inches.
- Avoid wood-to-soil contact (deck posts, fences).
- Maintain good ventilation in crawl spaces.
- Schedule annual termite inspections in spring or summer.
- Replace damp or decaying wood immediately.
When to Call a Professional
If you notice mud tubes, discarded wings, or bubbling paint, it’s time to call a licensed specialist. Subterranean termites work silently and can cause major structural damage before you even realize they’re there.
Our experts identify nesting zones, eliminate active colonies, and install long-term barriers to prevent re-infestation.
