Termites are small, winged insects that feed on cellulose found in wood and other materials. They can cause extensive damage to homes and other structures and are a major pest problem in Colorado. In this article, we will discuss the definition of termites, their types, and the steps that homeowners can take to protect their property from termite damage.
Prevalence of Termites in Colorado
Common Species in Colorado
In Colorado, the most common species of termite is the drywood termite (Kalotermes flavicollis). Other species include the Western Subterranean Termite (Reticulitermes hesperus) and the Eastern Subterranean Termite (Reticulitermes flavipes).
Areas of Highest Concentration
Termites are most prevalent in the Front Range and the eastern plains of Colorado. They are also commonly found in urban areas near sources of wood and damp soils.
Identification of Termites in Colorado
Signs of Infestation
Termites cause extensive property damage without any visible signs. They feed on wooden structures, leaving behind telltale signs of their presence. Damage to wood may include the hollowing out of wood, discolored or bubbling paint, and mud tubes on the exterior walls.
How to Identify Termites
Termites can be identified by their color, shape, size, and wings. Winged termites, or swarmers, have two pairs of wings of equal size. Winged termites are dark brown to black and have a thicker waist. Subterranean termites are pale yellow with a darker head and no wings. Drywood termites are light to dark brown and may have wings.
Prevention of Termites in Colorado
- Inspect the property for any signs of termite activity and remove any sources of food or moisture.
- Repair or replace any damaged or decaying wood, such as decks, fences, and window frames.
- Remove any dead wood or tree stumps from the property.
- Replace any large or old trees that are close to the property.
- Seal any cracks or gaps in the foundation or walls of the building to prevent termites from entering.
- Install a physical barrier, such as a treated steel mesh, around the foundation of the building to prevent termites from entering.
- Keep mulch and other organic matter away from the foundation of the building to reduce the risk of termite infestation.
- Install a dehumidifier to reduce the moisture levels inside the building and make it less attractive to termites.
- Regularly inspect the property for any signs of termite activity.
- Treat the soil around the property with a termite-resistant chemical to prevent termites from entering.
1 Preventive Treatments
- Organic sprays: Diatomaceous earth, boric acid and neem oil are some of the organic products used to treat termites. These are applied to the affected area and may need to be reapplied over time to continue to be effective.
- Heat treatments: Heat treatments involve using high temperatures to kill termites. It is important to apply this treatment correctly as too much heat can damage the structure.
- Barrier treatments: Barrier treatments involve creating a chemical barrier around the perimeter of the structure. This chemical barrier will repel the termites and keep them away from the structure.
- Baiting systems: Baiting systems involve placing traps around the perimeter of the structure. The traps contain food that attracts the termites, and when they enter the trap they are killed by the pesticide inside.
2 Homeowner Practices
| Practice | Description |
|---|---|
| Regular Inspection | Homeowners should inspect their property regularly for signs of termite activity. |
| Control Measures | If termites are present, homeowners should take action to control and eliminate them, such as using baits, sprays, or fumigants. |
Control of Termites in Colorado
- Inspect for signs of termite activity regularly.
- Keep mulch and wood debris away from the foundation of a home or structure.
- Make sure there is proper ventilation in crawl spaces and attics.
- Check for water leaks or sources of moisture regularly.
- Remove stumps, dead trees, and other wood debris from the property.
- Install a physical barrier such as a metal or plastic sheet between the soil and the foundation.
- Install a chemical barrier such as a termiticide around the foundation and other areas where termites may enter.
- If termite infestation is found, contact a professional pest control company to assess the situation and determine the best course of action.
1 DIY Methods
- Inspect the area for signs of termites: wood damage, mud tubes, winged termites, and termite droppings.
- Vacuum the area to remove any visible termites and their droppings.
- Remove any moist soil, wood or debris from the area.
- Check the moisture levels in the area and install and maintain adequate ventilation.
- Check the foundation, walls, doors and windows for cracks or gaps and seal them with caulking.
- Check the wood for signs of infestation and replace any infested wood.
- Apply liquid or aerosol termite insecticides to the affected areas.
- Place bait systems around the perimeter of the building.
2 Professional Treatments
- Liquid Treatments – Liquid treatments are a very common form of treatment for termites and involve the use of a chemical insecticide, such as fipronil, applied to the soil around a home’s foundation. This type of treatment is effective in killing both the existing termite population and any future ones that may attempt to invade the home.
- Baiting Systems – Professional baiting systems are a popular and environmentally friendly way to treat termites. Baiting systems involve placing bait stations around the perimeter of a home, which contain a food source for the termites. The bait station is monitored for activity and when a termite infestation is discovered, a specialized insecticide is used to kill them.
Damage Caused By Termites in Colorado
- Structural damage to buildings, homes, and other wooden structures
- Damage to furniture and other wooden objects
- Damage to insulation, drywall, and other building materials
- Holes in walls and floors
- Discolored wood
- Mud tubes on walls and other surfaces
- Frass (termite droppings)
- Tunnels in wood
- Cracks in walls
1 Structural Damage
Termites in Colorado can cause extensive structural damage to buildings if left unchecked. In general, colonies of these pests can feed on wood, paper products, and other cellulose-based materials. Subterranean termites can also cause damage to foundations and support beams, as well as damage to insulation, drywall, and any other wood-based materials in the building.
| Damage Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Foundation Damage | Termites can cause damage to foundations by tunneling through the wood, resulting in weakened structures. |
| Support Beam Damage | Termites can cause damage to support beams by tunneling through the wood and weakening the structure. |
| Insulation Damage | Termites can cause damage to insulation by eating away at the material and weakening it. |
| Drywall Damage | Termites can cause damage to drywall by tunneling through the material and weakening it. |
Left untreated, termite damage can be costly to repair and can even render a building unsafe. It is important to regularly inspect buildings for signs of termite damage and take steps to prevent and/or control any infestations.
2 Economic Impact
| Economic Impact | Description |
|---|---|
| Property Damage | Termites cause thousands of dollars in property damages annually in Colorado. They can cause severe structural damage to buildings and homes, and the cost of repairs can be significant. |
| Cost of Treatment | The cost of treating and controlling termites can be very expensive. Homeowners in Colorado must pay for pest control services, chemical treatments and other preventative measures to keep termites at bay. |
Health Risks of Termites in Colorado
Termites are known to cause extensive damage to homes and property in Colorado, but they can also pose a significant health risk to humans and pets. Termites create colonies that can become infested with bacteria, fungi, and other parasites. These organisms can be transmitted to humans through contact with wood or soil that has been infested by termites. People may also be exposed to termite droppings and saliva, which can cause allergic reactions or respiratory problems. Termites may also spread diseases to pets, such as fleas, ticks, and mites.
The most common health risks associated with termites in Colorado include allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and skin irritation. Allergic reactions can range from mild to severe and may include sneezing, itchy eyes, runny nose, and skin rashes. Respiratory problems can include asthma and other breathing difficulties. Skin irritation may occur from contact with termites or their droppings. People with weakened immune systems may be more susceptible to these health risks.
| Health Risk | Description |
|---|---|
| Allergic Reactions | Sneezing, itching eyes, runny nose, and skin rashes |
| Respiratory Problems | Asthma, difficulty breathing |
| Skin Irritation | Contact with termites or their droppings |
It is important to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of health problems associated with termites in Colorado. Homeowners should inspect their property regularly for signs of termite activity, such as mud tubes and damaged wood. If termites are found, a professional should be contacted to apply a termite control treatment.
1 Allergens
Termites in Colorado are known to cause allergic reactions in humans. These allergic reactions are caused by the termite droppings, also known as frass, which contain a variety of allergens. Common allergens found in termite frass include proteins, mold spores, and chemicals released by the termites. These allergens can cause allergic reactions such as watery eyes, sneezing, congestion, and skin rashes. Additionally, the droppings can also bring about respiratory issues such as asthma attacks. To avoid exposure to these allergens, it is important to have a professional inspect your home for termite damage.
2 Disease-Carrying Potential
Termites in Colorado can carry two types of diseases. The first is the Chagas disease, which is caused by the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma cruzi. This disease can cause fever, fatigue, and even death in some cases. The second type of disease that termites in Colorado can carry is dysentery, which is caused by the bacteria Shigella. Symptoms of this disease include diarrhea, fever, and abdominal pain. Both of these diseases can be spread from termites to humans, so it is important to take precautions against infestations.
Laws and Regulations Regarding Termites in Colorado
In Colorado, there are several laws and regulations in place to protect against termite infestations. The Colorado Department of Agriculture enforces the laws and regulations related to termites through their Structural Pest Control Board. All pest control companies must be licensed by the Structural Pest Control Board and must adhere to the laws and regulations.
The Structural Pest Control Board requires that all wood-destroying insect inspections be completed by a licensed pest control company. The company must provide an inspection report and proper documentation of the inspection findings. The report must include all findings, including the severity of the infestation, the type of termites, and the recommended treatment.
The Structural Pest Control Board also requires that all termite treatments be performed by a licensed pest control company. The company must provide proof of the treatment, including a copy of the treatment report to the homeowner. The report must include the type of treatment used, the cost, and the effectiveness of the treatment.
In addition, the Structural Pest Control Board requires that all termite treatments be done in accordance with the Colorado Department of Agriculture’s Termite Treatment Guidelines. These guidelines outline the appropriate use of termite treatments, the safety precautions that must be taken, and the proper disposal of treated materials.
Finally, the Structural Pest Control Board requires that all termite treatments be done in accordance with the Colorado Department of Agriculture’s Structural Pest Control Act. This Act requires that all pest control companies be properly licensed and that they follow the regulations outlined in the Act. This includes following the safety precautions, using the proper treatments, and disposing of treated materials in accordance with the law.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Winged Termites in Colorado?
Yes, winged termites, also known as alates, can be found in Colorado. Alates are the reproductive members of the termite colony and are responsible for starting new colonies. They have wings and are dark brown in color. Winged termites swarm in the spring and summer months, typically after a rain. They can be found near windowsills and doors, and are often mistaken for flying ants.
How can I tell if I have termites in my home in Colorado?
Signs of a termite infestation in Colorado include visible evidence of termite activity, such as mud tubes (used by termites to travel between the soil and the wood of your home), discarded wings from swarmers, and hollow-sounding wood. It is also important to keep an eye out for other signs of infestation, such as seeing live termites or evidence of their droppings. If you suspect you have termites, it is best to contact a professional pest control company for inspection and treatment.
What can I do to protect my property from termites in Colorado?
To protect your property from termites in Colorado, there are a few steps you can take. Inspect your home or building for signs of termites, such as mud tubes or wood damage. Seal any gaps or cracks in the foundation or walls, as this will help to prevent termites from entering your property. Reduce moisture levels in and around the property, as termites are attracted to moist environments. Remove any rotting wood, debris, or other organic matter from around your property as this will also help to deter termites. Finally, consider having a professional pest control company perform regular inspections and treatments to ensure that your property is protected.
Are Termites Common in Colorado?
Termites are not typically found in Colorado, as the climate is too cold for them to survive. However, they may still be found in the southern part of the state, especially in warmer, more humid areas. In addition, some species of termites may be carried into the state by human activity, such as traveling. To prevent termite infestations, it is important to keep an eye out for signs of termites and to take proactive measures to keep them out.
What signs should I look out for to determine if I have an infestation of termites in Colorado?
Signs of a termite infestation in Colorado include swarming termites, mud tubes, cracked or bubbling paint, wood that sounds hollow when tapped, frass (termite droppings), and discarded wings. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to contact a professional to inspect and treat your property before the infestation worsens.
Conclusion
Termites can be a real threat to homeowners in Colorado, especially given the moist climates of the state. Fortunately, there are several steps homeowners can take to protect their homes and property from termite infestations. Regular inspections, preventative treatments, and proper home maintenance can all go a long way towards keeping termites at bay. Additionally, homeowners should be aware of the signs of termites and contact a professional pest control company if they suspect an infestation.
