Last updated on September 16, 2025
When it comes to pests that can silently damage your home, drywood termites are among the most destructive in Florida. Unlike subterranean termites that live underground, drywood termites nest directly inside the wood they consume. This makes them harder to detect—and even harder to eliminate once an infestation has started.
For St. Augustine homeowners, drywood termites are a serious concern because of the city’s coastal climate, historic architecture, and abundance of wooden structures. At South Country Pest Control, we’ve seen firsthand how these pests can cause thousands of dollars in damage if left untreated. In this blog, we’ll cover what drywood termites are, how to spot the signs of an infestation, and the best ways to protect your home.
What Are Drywood Termites?
Drywood termites are wood-destroying insects that feed on cellulose found in dry wood. Unlike subterranean termites, they don’t require soil contact or moisture to survive. Instead, they live entirely inside the wood they infest, creating networks of tunnels as they eat away at structural beams, furniture, and even flooring.
Because they don’t leave behind mud tubes like subterranean termites, drywood termites are often overlooked until major damage has already occurred.
Why Are Drywood Termites a Problem in St. Augustine?
St. Augustine’s warm, humid environment makes it an ideal habitat for termites of all kinds, including drywood termites. They are especially problematic in older homes and wooden structures, which are plentiful throughout the area.
Some of the reasons drywood termites thrive here include:
- Climate – Warm weather allows for year-round termite activity.
- Historic homes – Many older wooden structures provide ideal nesting sites.
- Swarming season – Drywood termites swarm at night, especially in late spring and summer, to establish new colonies inside homes.
Signs of Drywood Termite Infestation
Because drywood termites live inside wood, spotting them can be tricky. However, there are warning signs every homeowner in St. Augustine should look out for:
- Frass (termite droppings) – Small, pellet-like droppings that resemble sawdust are one of the most obvious signs of an infestation.
- Hollow-sounding wood – Tapping on wood that has been damaged by termites often produces a hollow sound.
- Discarded wings – Swarming drywood termites shed their wings once they find a nesting site, leaving piles near windowsills or light fixtures.
- Blistered or bubbling wood – Termite damage can sometimes mimic water damage.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take immediate action before the infestation spreads.
How Much Damage Can Drywood Termites Cause?
Drywood termites may be small, but they work nonstop once they infest your home. Over time, they can weaken structural beams, compromise flooring, and damage furniture. Repairs can quickly add up to thousands of dollars—and most homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover termite damage.
The longer an infestation goes untreated, the more extensive and costly the damage becomes. This is why professional termite inspections and treatments are essential for protecting your investment.
How to Prevent Drywood Termites
While no prevention method is foolproof, homeowners can take steps to make their property less attractive to drywood termites:
- Seal cracks and crevices – Termites often enter through small openings around doors, windows, and eaves.
- Limit wood-to-wood contact – Avoid stacking firewood near your home, as this can attract termites.
- Inspect regularly – Schedule professional inspections at least once a year to catch infestations early.
- Use treated wood – In construction or repairs, treated wood can provide an added layer of protection.
Professional Drywood Termite Control in St. Augustine
Drywood termites are nearly impossible to eliminate with DIY treatments. Sprays and over-the-counter solutions won’t penetrate deep into the wood where termites live and breed.
At South Country Pest Control, we use advanced methods to eliminate drywood termite colonies at the source. Our team conducts thorough inspections, identifies the extent of the infestation, and applies targeted treatments designed to protect your home both now and in the future.
Protect Your Home from Drywood Termites Today
Drywood termites are a silent but destructive threat to St. Augustine homes. Waiting too long to act can lead to costly repairs and irreversible damage. If you suspect termite activity—or just want peace of mind—our experts are here to help.
Contact South Country Pest Control today to schedule a professional termite inspection and protect your home from costly infestations. With our experience and proven treatments, we’ll help ensure your property stays termite-free year-round.
