Orange County’s beautiful year-round climate makes it a great place to live—but unfortunately, it also makes it the perfect environment for termites. Two of the most common types in Southern California are drywood termites and subterranean termites. Both can cause extensive damage to homes, but which one is the biggest threat to your property?
At Saddleback Termite & Pest Control, we’ve seen firsthand how each species behaves, the kind of destruction they cause, and how they can jeopardize your investment if left unchecked. Let’s explore the differences between drywood and subterranean termites—and find out which one you should worry about most in Orange County.
Understanding the Two Types
Drywood termites live and feed entirely within dry, sound wood. Unlike subterranean termites, they don’t require contact with the soil. You’ll often find them in attics, furniture, door frames, and exposed wood structures. Because they burrow deep into the wood, they’re difficult to detect until significant damage has already occurred.
Subterranean termites, on the other hand, nest in the soil and travel to food sources (like your home) using mud tubes. These colonies can be massive—sometimes containing millions of termites—and they are known for causing swift and severe structural damage.
Comparing the Damage
Drywood termites are slow eaters. Their colonies grow slowly, but they can still cause serious harm over time. One of the challenges with drywood termites is that their presence often goes unnoticed. Because they live inside the wood, there are no external mud tubes or obvious signs at first. Over time, their frass (termite droppings) and hollowed-out wood give them away—but by then, the infestation can be widespread.
Subterranean termites are far more aggressive. Their colonies are much larger, and because they maintain moisture by building mud tubes, they can travel across or through foundations to reach all areas of your home. In many cases, they cause structural damage at a faster rate than drywood termites, making them the biggest threat in terms of long-term cost and safety.
How to Spot Each Type
- Small piles of frass (wood-colored pellets)
- Hollow-sounding wood
- Tiny holes in wood surfaces
- Swarming termites inside your home
Signs of Subterranean Termites:
- Mud tubes along walls or foundations
- Discarded wings near windowsills or doors
- Bubbling paint or warped wood
- Damaged drywall and wooden beams
If you’re unsure which type you’re dealing with, Saddleback Termite & Pest Control can perform a professional inspection and identify the specific species threatening your home.
Which Is the Bigger Threat in Orange County?
While both drywood and subterranean termites are serious concerns, subterranean termites are typically considered the biggest threat in Orange County for several reasons:
- Faster Damage: Subterranean termites can destroy wood at a much faster rate than drywood termites due to their larger colony size.
- Wider Reach: They nest underground and can access a home from nearly any direction, increasing the risk of extensive infestation.
- Structural Compromise: Because they feed on foundational wood components like beams and joists, the damage they cause can put the structural integrity of a home at serious risk.
- Difficult to Eradicate: Their nesting behavior and large colonies make them harder to eliminate without professional treatment.
That said, drywood termites should not be underestimated. Their ability to silently infest attics, walls, and furniture still makes them a formidable enemy, especially when left untreated.
Protecting Your Home Against Both
Whether you’re facing drywood or subterranean termites, early detection and prompt treatment are essential. Waiting until the damage is visible can cost you thousands in repairs—and lower your home’s value.
At Saddleback Termite & Pest Control, we specialize in detecting, treating, and preventing both types of termites common in Orange County. Our expert team uses proven methods tailored to each infestation, ensuring complete elimination and long-term protection.
Why Choose Saddleback?
- Comprehensive Inspections: We’ll identify the type of termite, extent of damage, and best treatment options.
- Custom Treatment Plans: Whether it’s local spot treatment or full fumigation, we’ve got you covered.
- Eco-Friendly Options: We use effective solutions that are safe for your home and family.
- Ongoing Monitoring: Keep your home termite-free with regular inspections and preventative services.
Don’t leave your biggest investment at risk. Let the professionals at Saddleback Termite & Pest Control help you fight back.
Schedule Your Inspection Today
If you suspect termites—or just want peace of mind—now is the time to act. Subterranean and drywood termites are both active in Orange County, but one thing’s for sure: the sooner you address the problem, the less damage they can do.
Schedule a free inspection with the team that knows how to stop the biggest threat before it starts. Contact Saddleback Termite & Pest Control today and protect your home with confidence.