Spring is when termite swarms emerge and new colonies spread, making this the most critical time for inspection and prevention. 

2026 alert: The hybrid termite. In 2025, scientists confirmed the hybridization of Formosan and Asian termite species in parts of the southern U.S. These hybrids are more prolific and harder to control than either parent species. If you live in Florida, Louisiana, or other Gulf states, this is especially important to monitor. 

Types of termites in the U.S.: 

Subterranean termites (most common): Live underground, build mud tubes to reach wood above soil. Found in every U.S. state except Alaska. 

Drywood termites: Infest dry, sound wood without needing soil contact. Common in coastal and southern states. 

Dampwood termites: 

Target wood with high moisture content. Fixing moisture issues usually resolves dampwood problems. 

Signs of a termite infestation: 

Mud tubes (pencil-width) running along your foundation or crawl space walls. Hollow-sounding wood when tapped.

Small piles of sawdust-like frass (droppings from drywood termites) .

Discarded wings near windows and doors in spring (swarmers shed their wings after finding a new site)· 

Bubbling or warped paint that looks like water damage.

 

Prevention steps you can take today: 

Keep firewood at least 20 feet from your home and raised 8 inches off the ground.

Remove wood debris, mulch, and cardboard from your foundation· 

Fix any plumbing or roof leaks promptly· 

Maintain at least 6 inches between soil and any wooden elements of your home’s structure· 

Get an annual professional termite inspection — many companies offer this for free. 

Treatment options: Liquid termiticide barriers injected into the soil around the foundation, and bait station systems (which are monitored and deliver delayed-action bait to the colony), are both highlyeffective and used by professional services.