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Drywood Termite Treatment — No-Tent Options Available
Drywood termites live entirely within the wood they infest — no soil contact required. They are responsible for a large share of termite damage in coastal and inland Southern California. Treatment selection depends on whether the infestation is localized or widespread throughout the structure.
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Drywood Termite Treatment Options
Unlike subterranean termites, drywood termites have no soil connection — treatment must reach the wood directly. Three main methods are used depending on infestation scope.
Orange Oil Injection
No-TentCost: $500–$1,500
Time: 2–4 hours, same-day re-entry
Best for: Localized, accessible infestations in identifiable areas.
Learn more →Heat Treatment
No-ChemicalCost: $1,500–$4,000
Time: 6–8 hours, same-day re-entry
Best for: Whole-structure treatment when avoiding chemicals is a priority.
Learn more →Tent Fumigation
Most ThoroughCost: $1,500–$4,000
Time: 3 days — 3 nights away from home
Best for: Widespread or multi-area infestations throughout the structure.
Learn more →Signs You Have Drywood Termites
Frass (Termite Pellets)
Tiny, six-sided, wood-colored pellets pushed through kick-out holes onto surfaces below. This is the most reliable indicator of drywood termite activity.
Hollow-Sounding Wood
Tapping infested wood produces a hollow sound. Drywood termites hollow out galleries within the wood grain, leaving only a thin shell.
Small Exit Holes
Pinhole-sized round openings in wood surfaces where frass is pushed out. Often found in door frames, baseboards, window trim, and structural beams.
Swarmers Near Lights
Winged drywood termites (alates) typically swarm in late summer and fall in Southern California, often appearing near windows and lights indoors.
How We Determine the Right Treatment
Our inspectors assess the extent of infestation, the accessibility of infested wood, and the structure's layout before recommending a treatment method. A localized infestation in identifiable, accessible wood may be fully addressed with orange oil injection. When activity is present in multiple areas, inaccessible structural members, or throughout the attic and wall voids, a whole-structure approach (heat or fumigation) provides more reliable coverage.
We do not push a single method — our recommendation is based on your specific findings. All treatment options come with a 1-year warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are my treatment options for drywood termites?
The three main options are: (1) orange oil injection — localized, no-tent, best for accessible infestations; (2) heat treatment — no-chemical whole-structure option; (3) tent fumigation — the most thorough whole-structure treatment for widespread activity. Your inspector will recommend the appropriate method based on the extent and location of the infestation.
How do I know if I have drywood termites?
The most reliable sign is frass (termite pellets) — tiny, six-sided wood-colored pellets pushed out of kick-out holes in infested wood. You may also notice hollow-sounding wood, small holes in wood surfaces, or winged swarmers near windows and lights in summer.
Can drywood termites be treated without tenting?
Yes, for localized infestations. Orange oil injection and heat treatment are effective no-tent options. However, if the infestation is widespread throughout the structure, tent fumigation provides more thorough coverage and warrants serious consideration.
How much does drywood termite treatment cost?
Costs vary by method: orange oil localized treatment $500–$1,500; heat treatment $1,500–$4,000; tent fumigation $1,500–$4,000. A free inspection is required to determine the appropriate method and provide an accurate quote.
How long does drywood termite treatment take?
Orange oil treatment takes 2–4 hours with no re-entry wait. Heat treatment takes 6–8 hours and you can re-enter the same day. Tent fumigation takes 3 days — you will be out of the home for 3 nights.
Get a Free Drywood Termite Inspection
Free inspections throughout Orange County and Southern California. We'll identify the infestation and recommend the right treatment — no obligation.