When it comes to termites, one of the most common concerns homeowners have is just how much damage these silent destroyers can cause—and how quickly they can do it. While subterranean termites often steal the spotlight due to their aggressive colony sizes, drywood termites present their own unique threats. If left unchecked, these pests can lead to serious structural damage, costing thousands of dollars in repairs. So, how long does it take for drywood termites to eat your house? Let’s break it down.
Understanding Drywood Termites
Unlike subterranean termites that require moisture and build their colonies underground, drywood termites live within the wood they consume. This means they can infest your home’s framing, furniture, and other wooden structures without the need for soil contact. Their ability to stay hidden inside the wood makes them particularly difficult to detect until significant damage has occurred.
How Fast Do Drywood Termites Eat Wood?
Drywood termites don’t consume wood as rapidly as their subterranean counterparts, but they are still destructive over time. On average:
A single drywood termite colony (which can range from a few hundred to a few thousand termites) eats approximately one-fifth of an ounce of wood per day.
That translates to about six pounds of wood per year for an average-sized colony.
Larger, well-established colonies can cause noticeable structural damage within 3-8 years, depending on environmental factors and the infestation size.
Factors That Influence the Rate of Damage
Several factors affect how quickly drywood termites can compromise your home’s integrity:
1. Colony Size and Number of Colonies
A single colony may take years to cause significant damage, but if multiple colonies are present in different parts of the home, destruction can accelerate.
2. Type and Age of Wood
Softer woods (such as pine) are consumed faster than denser hardwoods.
Older, drier wood tends to be more susceptible to infestation, making older homes a prime target.
3. Environmental Conditions
Warm and humid climates allow drywood termites to remain active year-round, increasing their feeding rates.
Colder temperatures can slow their metabolism, slightly reducing their feeding activity.
How to Detect and Prevent a Drywood Termite Infestation
Since drywood termites remain hidden inside the wood, they often go undetected until damage becomes severe. Look for these warning signs:
Small piles of frass (termite droppings) – Resembling tiny, hexagonal wood pellets, often found near infested areas.
Discarded wings – Evidence of termite swarmers (alates) that have entered your home to start a new colony.
Hollow-sounding or blistered wood – A sign that termites are tunneling within.
Sagging or damaged wooden structures – An advanced sign of infestation that requires immediate attention.
Prevention Tips:
Seal cracks and crevices in your home’s foundation, walls, and roof to prevent entry.
Use termite-resistant wood or treat exposed wood with borate-based products.
Schedule regular inspections with a professional pest control company, especially if you live in a high-risk area.
Final Thoughts: Should You Be Worried?
While drywood termites don’t destroy homes overnight, their damage accumulates over time. A minor infestation may take years to become severe, but by the time you notice it, the cost of repairs can be significant. The best defense is early detection and professional treatment.
At Jetty Termite & Pest Control, we specialize in drywood termite inspections, prevention, and eradication. Whether you suspect an infestation or just want peace of mind, our expert team is ready to protect your home from these persistent pests. Contact us today for a comprehensive termite inspection and keep your home safe for years to come!