If you’re a homeowner in Southern Arizona, you’ve likely heard about the damage termites can cause—but did you know that subterranean termites are the most destructive type? These silent invaders can cause thousands of dollars in damage before you even realize they’re there. At Bill’s Home Service Company, we’re here to help you understand how to identify, prevent, and eliminate these unwelcome guests.
What Are Subterranean Termites?
Subterranean termites live underground and build extensive colonies that can include millions of individual termites. These pests rely on moisture to survive and build mud tubes to travel from their colony to food sources—often your home’s wooden structures. Although the Southern Arizona desert is known for its arid conditions, subterranean termites still thrive here and are especially active in the months following the summer monsoon season.
Signs of a Subterranean Termite Infestation

Subterranean termites are notoriously stealthy, but here are some warning signs to watch for:
- Mud tubes on walls, foundations, or crawl spaces
- Damaged wood that sounds hollow when tapped
- Bubbling paint or uneven surfaces that look like water damage
Because they’re hidden underground or inside your walls, termite activity often goes unnoticed until significant damage has occurred. That’s why regular termite inspections by a trained professional are so important.
DIY Termite Prevention Tips
While a professional termite control plan is the most effective protection, there are a few things you can do to help reduce your risk of an infestation:
- Fix leaks and eliminate standing water near your home’s foundation
- Keep wood and mulch at least 12 inches away from the exterior walls
- Store firewood off the ground and away from your home
- Ensure good drainage around your home with gutters and downspouts
- Seal cracks in your foundation and around plumbing
These preventive steps can help reduce moisture and limit access points for termites.
Professional Termite Treatment Options
If you suspect termites or just want peace of mind, Bill’s Home Service Company offers comprehensive termite inspection and treatment services throughout Tucson, Green Valley, Sahuarita, and the surrounding areas.
We use proven methods like:
- Liquid barrier treatments that eliminate termites as they pass through the treated soil
- Termite baiting systems that draw termites to a slow-acting toxin, spreading it throughout the colony
- Preventive treatments for new construction or high-risk areas
We also provide WDIIR (Wood-Destroying Insect Inspection Reports) for real estate transactions and annual termite service contracts for ongoing protection.
Don’t Let Termites Eat Away at Your Investment
Subterranean termites are a serious threat to homes in Southern Arizona, but with the right knowledge and proactive care, you can protect your property. Whether you’re seeing signs of termite activity or just want to be sure your home is safe, we’re here to help.
📞 Call Bill’s Home Service Company today at (520) 625-2381 to schedule a free termite inspection or learn more about our termite control services in Tucson and beyond. 🛡️ Serving Southern Arizona homeowners since 1964—trusted, local, and family-owned.