A hidden enemy lurks in the shadow of Phoenix homeowners from the desert city’s unique climate conditions. One of the most damaging pests in Arizona, drywood termites have become entrenched in the old residential areas of the Valley, including Central Phoenix, Arcadia, and the historic districts. These wood-destroying insects cause millions of dollars in structural damage/annually and often go undetected until the damage has been done.
The dry air here, combined with the sheer number of older, wood-framed homes, is a perfect environment for these silent invaders. When it comes to expensive repairs and structural integrity, the key to prevention is still early detection and mitigation efforts from Green Mango Pest Control.
Understanding Drywood Termites in Phoenix’s Climate
Phoenix offers the perfect year-round conditions for drywood termite colonies to thrive in its warm, desert environment. Unlike burrowing termites that must come into contact with soil, drywood species spend their entire lives inside the wood they eat, making them ideally suited to Arizona’s low-humidity environment. Its average annual precipitation of only 8.03 inches contributes to the arid climate these pests thrive in, and infrequently dipping temperatures mean that they can remain active nearly all winter.
Species such as the Western drywood termite have adapted over time to obtain more moisture than they need through wood cellulose ingestion and do not need to drink water to survive. Because of this adaptation, Phoenix homes are especially at risk, and standard methods of controlling moisture gain little ground in surviving these tenacious pests.
Silent Nature of Drywood Termite Damage
- Concealed Colony Activity
Drywood termites live and work entirely in wood structures, developing a complex system of tunnels that cannot be seen from the outside of the wood building. Such colonies can live on for years without producing visible signs of infestation.
- Minimal External Evidence
In earlier stages, drywood species do not produce the tangible warning signs other termite types do. Active colonies can be indicated only by small piles of pellet-like droppings.
- Slow Structural Deterioration
Termites gradually chew through wood for months or even years before you begin to notice problems, damaging your home in the meantime. Colonies can eat as much as 2.3 grams of wood a day for every 1,000 termites, according to research.
- Delayed Discovery Timeline
According to studies, Phoenix homeowners do not discover the majority of drywood termite damage until their homes are being renovated or structural issues arise. Detection typically occurs 3-5 years after establishment.
- Sound Masking in Desert Climate
In a place like Phoenix, the ever-present sound of air conditioning units and desert winds can drown out the sound termites make when they are feeding, meaning even less timely detection.
Why Older Homes Are Especially at Risk?
The original neighborhoods of Phoenix, built between 1950 and 1980, have several vulnerability factors for a drywood termite infestation. Original wood framing, window casing, and door frames that have cracked with time are places for termites to enter. Phoenix homes. Before 1980, nearly 40% of Phoenix homes were built before 1980, meaning over a quarter million Phoenix homes could be at risk. Over the years, construction materials age, making them softer and more attractive to termites; decades of settling can also open new avenues for entry.
Professional Help for Lasting Termite Protection
Drywood termite control is somewhat of a specialty, even in Phoenix, because we do have unique pest challenges and climate conditions. Depending on the severity of the infestation and your home’s construction, professional treatment usually includes fumigation or localized wood treatment. Green Mango Pest Control and others have honed their knowledge of Arizona termite species and Valley home building materials. Their specialized detection techniques with moisture meters and acoustic devices ensure that they detect hidden colonies before they can cause severe damage to your property.