Dry Wood Termites

Drywood termites are very destructive to any structure. They primarily feed on wood, but can also damage paper, books, insulation, and even swimming pool liners and filtration systems. The Associated Press reports:

• Termites can be hidden for 10 to 12 years before a swarm becomes visible
• Homeowners insurance doesn’t cover termite damage
• A small colony can devour a linear foot of a 2-by-4 in five months.

According to the California Department of Consumer Affairs, the only two effective methods for total (whole-house) eradication are fumigation and heat. The heating process introduces clean, dry heat into a structure, gradually increasing the temperature until the inside temperature is between 140 and 150 degrees and the wood core reaches 120 degrees. Technicians then maintain the temperature at or above that level for 1.5 hours to ensure a complete kill. The entire procedure may be completed in as little as 8 hours, but varies from one structure to another depending on factors such as the building’s construction and the weather conditions. The procedure may not be effective for structures that cannot be heated evenly.