Types of Termites In Colorado: FAQ

The most common types of termites in Colorado are Subterranean termites and Drywood termites. There is suspicion that Forosman termites are also in Colorado, but most exterminators will disagree. Termites are active throughout most of Colorado. They’re less common in the northwest part of the state, but major areas such as Colorado Springs, Denver, Durango, and Grand Junction are increasingly at a higher risk. 

Termites are home-invasive pests that feed on wood and other foundational structures. There are several types of termites within a species, each with a different job vital to the function of the entire colony. The most common termite homeowners will find evidence of is a swarmer termite. They’re often mistaken for winged ants or carpenter ants. 

Also Read: Ant vs Termite: What’s The Difference (With Pictures) 

How Common Are Termites In Colorado?

Termites invasions are common in Colorado. If you’re a homeowner in Colorado, you should be taking precautions to protect your home from termites. Over a third of homes in Colorado are at a moderate to severe risk of infestation. Other areas may have a higher risk and should seek regular maintenance. It’s important that homeowners remember that urban areas are increasingly at risk of an infestation and should take proper precautions. Call a local exterminator if you’re unsure about termite risk in your zip. 

The most destructive termite in Colorado is the subterranean termite, as it can severely damage your home’s foundation. Subterranean termites are also the most common termites in the Northeast. 

Also Read: 5 Types Of Termites That Can Infest Your Home

Signs of Termites

Termites start swarming on warm days after heavy rain. This means that any heated buildings during the winter are especially at risk of infestation. Infestations are common from March to late fall. Luckily, termite infestations build up slowly. If you discover an infestation or notice signs of an infestation, take proactive measures to protect your home.  

The easiest way to spot a termite is looking for winged adults coming inside buildings in fall and spring. Termites are normally spotted in your home’s wooden structures or by windows with lots of light. Other signs of termites include:

• Dead termites or leftover wings.
• Mud tubes or “mazes” along the outside of your home and foundation. 
• Damage or “knife wounds” in moist parts of your yard. 
• “Water damage” to ceilings, walls, and floors. 
• Mud tubes inside walls and other structures. 

Preventing Termite Infestations

Preventing termite infestations is simple: treat all wood and foundational structures in and around your home. Be sure to dispose of all rotting wood and structures immediately. Any wood on your property should stay far away from any soil. If you do have areas inside or outside your home with lots of wood or moisture, frequently check the area for mud tubes.

Any humid areas in your home, such as crawl spaces, basements, or attics should also be checked frequently for signs of termites. These spaces should be well-ventilated and moisture-free. 

Other preventative measures against termites include:

• Capping cinder blocks and bricks
• Filling cracks or gaps in foundations
• Keeping wooden shingles 8-inches above ground
• Using termite sand, mesh, or paper to absorb moisture
• Ventilating humid areas
• Keeping mulch at least 2 feet away from your home.
• Keeping firewood off the ground and away from your home. 
• Trimming bushes, trees, and other vegetation
• Clearing out dead or old yard waste 
• Cleaning gutters and repairing roofs

Most importantly, homeowners in Colorado should have their yards regularly inspected and sprayed for termites. This is especially important if you live in a high-risk area or your home has had an infestation in the past. 

Also Read: FAQ: What Is A Termite Bond? 

How To Get Rid Of Termites

Your home isn’t in immediate danger if you start to notice signs of an infestation. New colonies grow slowly but can get out of control once established. After finding signs of an infestation, try to find any points of entry in your home. Next, call a local exterminator to further assess the situation. 

Subterranean termites, the most destructive species, are the most common throughout Colorado. It’s vital that Colorado homeowners call an exterminator as soon as they notice an infestation, as it could be wildly destructive to a home. 

To find an exterminator in your community today, call Pest Brigade. We work with exterminators across Colorado and can connect you to the first one available.

Also Read: Termite Tenting And Fumigation