Formosan Termite Prevention and Protection

Find out more about the signs of Formosan termite infestation, how much damage these termites can do, and how you can protect your home.

Formosan Termite Damage

This is what Formosan termites can do behind the scenes to your home.


Typical “shredded wheat” interior structural damage	Interior breakout holes due to swarmers
Damage to header	Formosans can chew through non-wood materials like PVC pipe.
Extensive damage around window	Formosan mud tube on infested boat. Formosans use mud tubes to travel above ground.
Formosan termites build and live in nests called “carton nests.” They form these nests underground, in trees, and in the walls of structures.	Extensive damage to roof area

Follow these recommendations to prevent Formosan termites in and around your home.

Have your home annually inspected by a licensed pest control company. Find a licensed pest control company in Florida.	Keep gutters clean and well maintained.
Take care not to disturb the termite treatment around your foundation.	To reduce moisture, extend gutter and drainage systems at least 1 foot away from your home.
Repair cracks in your foundation and around your home’s exterior. Formosans can use cracks the thickness of a credit card to invade.	Repair any leaks in or around your home immediately.
Eliminate wood-to-soil and stucco-to-soil contact.	Direct sprinklers away from the house.
To avoid attracting swarmers, turn off porch lights or use a yellow bug light.	Keep plant material away from the exterior and foundation of your home.