What Do Termites Look Like?

Posted on by Annie Quinn

Termites: A Guide to Identifying These Hidden Pests

Termites are famously known as the “silent destroyers” as they can quietly damage your home before you even realize they’re there. Knowing what termites look like can help you spot an infestation early and take action before serious damage occurs. In this guide, we’ll break down what termites look like at different stages of their lifecycle and how to distinguish them from other insects.

Termite Appearance: What to Look For

Size & Shape

Termites are small, usually ranging from ⅛ to ½ an inch long. They have soft bodies, straight antennae, and a segmented shape. Unlike ants, their waist is not pinched, giving them a more uniform body shape.

Color Variations

Termite color depends on their species and role in the colony:

  • Worker Termites – Creamy white or pale in color, these termites are the most common and are responsible for eating wood.
  • Soldier Termites – Similar in color to workers but with larger heads and powerful mandibles (jaws) for defense.
  • Reproductive Termites (Alates) – Often brown or black, these winged termites are responsible for starting new colonies.

Winged Termites vs. Flying Ants: How to Tell the Difference

When termites swarm, many homeowners mistake them for flying ants. Here’s how to tell them apart:

FeatureTermitesFlying Ants
WaistThick and straightNarrow and pinched
AntennaeStraightBent or elbowed
WingsEqual sizeUnequal size (front wings longer than back wings)
ColorPale, brown, or blackDark brown or reddish

* If you see winged termites near your home, it’s a warning sign of an active infestation nearby! *

Where to Spot Termites

Termites often go unnoticed because they live inside wood, soil, or walls. Look for them:

✅ Near wooden structures (decks, fences, crawl spaces)

✅ Around mud tubes along foundations

✅ In damp, dark areas like basements

✅ Inside hollow-sounding or damaged wood

Think You’ve Seen Termites? Take Action Now!

Termites are NOT a DIY pest—they can cause thousands of dollars in damage before you even see them. Contact us now for an inspection!

How Do You Get Rid of Termites?

Posted on by Annie Quinn

In Florida, termite season is approaching quickly which proposes the question “How do you get rid of termites?” An even more common question is “Do I need termite control?” Luckily we have answers and preventative measures for you to take to avoid a termite infestation.

Why You Should Have Termite Control

Prevention is key to protecting your home from termites. Termites are wood destroying organisms that will wreak havoc on your home without notice. When it comes to these wood eaters, especially subterranean termites, they can cause more damages than most can afford to fix. The even scarier part is it is likely your homeowners insurance will not help with the costs of damage, leaving you to either cover the cost out of pocket or call it quits. That is why we always recommend the most effective Termite Control, Sentricon. This cutting edge technology not only provides your home the protection it needs as soon as it’s installed, but gives the warranty you will want for complete peace of mind from subterranean termites.

How To Get Rid of Termites

If you suspect termites in your home, acting quickly is essential. The first step is to schedule an inspection with one of our licensed pest control professional. A thorough inspection will help determine the type of termites present and the extent of the infestation. Once confirmed, our experts will provide the best next steps for you and your home to stay protected.

Do I Need Termite Control

If you own a home in Florida, the best answer is always yes. Why? Well, there a few key points that factor into this:

  1. Florida’s Climate – Termites thrive in warm, humid environments which makes Florida the best place for them year round. Subterranean, Drywood, and Formosan termites are all prevalent in the state, making termite infestations a common concern.
  2. Termites Are Silent Destroyers – Termites often go unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. They chew through wood and structural components from the inside out, leaving your home vulnerable. Even if you don’t currently see signs of termites, they could already be present or may invade in the future.
  3. Cost of Repairs – As stated earlier, the damage caused by termites can be catastrophic and expensive to repair. Most homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover termite damage, leaving you financially responsible for costly repairs. Investing in termite control is far less expensive than repairing structural damage to your home.
  4. Preventative Protection Saves Money and Stress – Investing in termite control is far less expensive than repairing structural damage to your home.

Termites in Florida

Florida’s warm, humid climate makes it a hotspot for termite activity. Subterranean termites, in particular, thrive in Florida’s environment and are the most destructive species in the state. Drywood termites and Formosan termites are also common, each with their own behaviors and risks.

Subterranean termites build underground colonies and can invade your home through cracks in the foundation. Drywood termites, on the other hand, live and feed entirely within wood, requiring no soil contact. Both types can cause extensive damage if left unchecked, with repairs potentially costing thousands of dollars.

In short, Termite Control isn’t just about eliminating termites—it’s about protecting your home, saving money, and avoiding the stress of dealing with an infestation. Even if you don’t see termites now, having preventative measures in place ensures they never become a problem in the future.

Need expert advice? That is why we are here for you! We offer termite control options, including the trusted Sentricon System, to keep your home safe year-round. What bugs you, bugs us!