Subterranean and drywood termites live, feed and spread differently. Here's how to tell them apart in South Texas and why the right treatment depends on the type.
By Time's Up Pest Control. Published 2026-10-22.
Not all termites behave the same way, and treatment that works on one type can miss the other entirely. South Texas has both subterranean and drywood termites, so knowing the difference matters if you own a home here.
Subterranean termites cause most of the termite damage in Texas. Their colonies live underground and need constant moisture. Workers travel from the soil into your home's wood through mud tubes, cracks in the slab, expansion joints and plumbing gaps.
Formosan subterranean termites, an aggressive species with very large colonies, are established along the Texas Gulf Coast. Any subterranean activity is worth a professional inspection.
Drywood termites don't need soil. A colony can live its whole life inside one piece of wood, like a window frame, a rafter or an antique dresser. They get most of their water from the wood itself.
Drywood termites are more common closer to the coast, but they can turn up anywhere, often carried in on used furniture or lumber.
Subterranean termites are treated where they live: in the soil. Common options include a liquid treatment that creates a protective zone around and under the foundation, or bait stations that workers carry back to the colony. Fixing moisture problems and wood-to-soil contact helps keep them from coming back.
Drywood termites are treated in the wood. Small, contained colonies may respond to localized treatment. When activity is spread through a structure, fumigation (tenting) may be the only way to reach every colony.
For a list of what to look for around your home, see signs of termites.
A correct identification is the first step in any termite plan. Time's Up Pest Control's licensed technicians inspect, identify the species and recommend the treatment that fits, from liquid treatments and bait stations to fumigation. Learn more about our termite control, or call for a free estimate.
Subterranean termites. They cause most of the termite damage in Texas homes and are the type most San Antonio homeowners deal with.
Not always. Small, localized colonies can sometimes be treated directly. Fumigation is used when the infestation is widespread or hard to reach.
Yes. Because the treatments are different, a professional inspection should identify every type present before work begins.
Time's Up Pest Control is a family-owned San Antonio pest control company serving homes and businesses. Licensed technicians (TPCL #877175), free estimates, satisfaction guarantee and 24/7 emergency service.
Phone: (210) 868-2267
Email: info@timesupbugs.com
Address: 1800 NE Interstate 410 Loop, Suite 216-B, San Antonio, TX 78209
Services: Pest Control, Termite Control, Pest Prevention, Commercial Pest Control