Despite Colorado’s generally arid and cool climate, the threat of wood-destroying pests remains a concern for homeowners. While many residents associate the risk with carpenter ants, subterranean termites are well-established here and actively cause significant structural damage. Recognizing the difference between these wood-infesting insects and understanding local risk factors is the first step in protecting your property. Termite activity is a year-round issue in Colorado, as these insects remain active deep underground or within the warmth of an infested structure, even during the coldest months.
Confirmation of Termite Presence and Species
Termites are found throughout Colorado, particularly in areas below 7,500 feet, with the vast majority of infestations caused by subterranean species (Reticulitermes spp.). The most widespread is the Arid-Land Subterranean Termite (Reticulitermes tibialis), which is common across the eastern plains and the Front Range. The Eastern Subterranean Termite is also prevalent and is considered one of the most destructive species in the region. These insects require constant contact with soil or a water source because they need high moisture levels to survive outside of the wood they consume.
They differ significantly from drywood termites, which only occur in isolated areas like Grand Junction and do not require soil contact for survival.
Subterranean termites build complex colonies in the ground and tunnel upward to find wood. This dependency on soil moisture is a defining characteristic and a key factor in control. Although the state’s termite populations are generally smaller compared to wetter parts of the country, they can still cause extensive damage over time.
Factors Contributing to Infestation in Colorado Homes
The seemingly dry environment of Colorado is often misleading because human activity creates microclimates that attract subterranean termites. Poor drainage, leaky plumbing, and excessive landscape irrigation near the foundation introduce the consistent moisture these pests need. Homes in densely populated urban and Front Range areas are particularly susceptible due to the high density of wood construction and managed landscapes.
Structural elements like wood-to-soil contact provide direct highways for termites to enter a home without exposure to the open air. This occurs with wooden porch supports, fence posts, or firewood stacked directly against the foundation. Cracks in concrete foundations also serve as protected entry points for foraging workers to gain access to the structure’s interior. Additionally, the heavy snowmelt common across the region can saturate the soil around a house, providing the necessary moisture for colonies to thrive and expand their foraging range.
Identifying the Signs of Termite Activity
Homeowners should inspect for signs of subterranean termite activity, the most recognizable of which are mud tubes built by worker termites. These pencil-width, earthen tunnels are constructed from soil and wood particles and act as protected pathways from the subterranean colony to the structure’s wood. They are most often found running along foundation walls, in crawl spaces, or extending from the ground onto wooden elements.
Another visible sign is the presence of swarmers, which are winged reproductive termites that emerge, usually in the spring, to establish new colonies. Swarmers are frequently mistaken for flying ants, but they can be distinguished by specific physical traits. Termite swarmers have straight antennae, a thick, non-pinched waist, and two pairs of wings that are equal in size and length.
Finding discarded wings near windowsills or light fixtures is a strong indicator that a termite swarm has occurred nearby.
Inside the home, damage to wood often remains hidden, but infested areas may sound hollow or papery when tapped. Subterranean termites eat the softer springwood, leaving behind thin layers of intact wood grain, which can result in blistering or darkening on the surface. Visible wood damage may also include small pinholes or tunnels packed with mud.
Taking Action Against Termite Infestations
Once termite activity is suspected, the immediate action is to reduce conducive conditions around the home to make it less appealing to the pests. This involves removing wood debris, old stumps, and firewood piles from the immediate perimeter. Correcting sources of excessive moisture, such as fixing leaky faucets and ensuring gutters direct water away from the foundation, also helps eliminate the necessary environment for survival.
Professional inspection is highly recommended, as treating an infestation requires specialized knowledge and equipment to target the entire colony effectively. Treatment options generally involve creating a protective liquid termiticide barrier in the soil around the foundation to block entry, or installing baiting systems to eliminate the colony over time. Do-it-yourself treatments are rarely effective because they typically fail to reach the main nest. Regular professional inspections, even after treatment, are necessary to monitor for new activity and ensure continued protection.