Termites

Termites are small, ant-like insects that have lived on Earth for more than 250 million years, feeding on wood and serving an important function in nature by converting dead trees into organic matter. However, these wood-destroying insects also can cause extensive damage to homes and businesses.

The Silent Destroyers Are Active—Are You Protected?

Termites are more than just a nuisance—they’re an invisible threat that can quietly eat away at your home’s structure for years before you even notice the damage. In Tucson, the dry desert climate doesn’t stop them. In fact, two of the most aggressive types of termites thrive here: subterranean and drywood termites.

If you’re a homeowner in Southern Arizona, termite protection isn’t optional—it’s essential.

Why Are Termites a Big Deal in Tucson?

Despite the desert environment, termites are active year-round in Tucson. And they don’t just chew through wood—they destroy your investment. Termites cause over $1.7 billion in property damage annually across the U.S., and insurance doesn’t typically cover that kind of destruction. Tucson homeowners face the most risk from:

Subterranean Termites

These termites live underground in massive colonies and make their way into your home from the soil, often unnoticed. They build mud tubes to travel across exposed surfaces and find their way into the wooden structure of your home—from the ground up. Subterranean termites are responsible for 95% of termite-related damage in the U.S.

Prevention Tip: Subterranean termites are easier to prevent than treat. That’s why we’ve moved away from old-school liquid barriers and now use the Sentricon® Termite Baiting System, a scientifically proven method that eliminates the entire colony at its source.

Drywood Termites

Unlike their subterranean cousins, drywood termites don’t need soil contact or moisture to survive. They tunnel directly into dry wood—like your roof beams, attic framing, door trims, or furniture.

They’re harder to detect but leave one telltale sign: tiny, sand-like droppings called frass, often found in piles near infested areas. Even small colonies can cause big damage over time.

Tips on Termite Control

Termites can break into your house through a crack as thin as the edge of a dime
Termites build mud tubes
Have the foundation of your home routinely inspected
Termite damage can be expensive to repair
Protect your property with a good termite warranty

Termite Warning Signs

Not sure if you have termites? Keep an eye out for:

1. Discarded wings near windows or doors (a sign of termite swarms)
2. Hollow-sounding or blistered wood
3. Small mud tubes along foundation walls or concrete
4. Piles of sawdust-like droppings
5. Tight-fitting doors or windows that suddenly stick

If you notice any of these signs, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the easier (and less expensive) the treatment.

Tucson’s Trusted Termite Control Experts

At Conquistador Pest & Termite (BUS #2022 | QP 1289), we’ve been protecting Tucson homes from termites for over 40 years. We’re locally owned, licensed, and experienced in dealing with the specific termite challenges of the Sonoran Desert.

We now use the Sentricon® System with Always Active™ technology, a non-invasive, eco-friendly termite solution that works 24/7 to eliminate colonies and protect your home long-term.

Schedule Your Free Termite Inspection

Whether you’re buying a home, noticing warning signs, or just want peace of mind, our licensed technicians will assess your property and recommend the right treatment plan.

Book Your Free Termite Inspection Today »