Termites may not be the first pest people think about in Colorado, but they can cause serious and expensive damage to homes and businesses across the state. These wood-destroying insects feed on cellulose found in wood, paper, drywall backing, and other building materials. Because termites often stay hidden inside walls, crawl spaces, or underground, many infestations go unnoticed until significant damage has already occurred.
For homeowners, termites can weaken structural wood, flooring, support beams, and trim. For businesses and property managers, termite damage can lead to costly repairs, failed inspections, and potential liability concerns. In recent years, termites have also become a growing concern during real estate transactions, especially with VA loan inspections required in many Colorado counties.
Seeing mud tubes along your foundation or hollow-sounding wood? These are early warning signs of termite activity. Termites work silently and quickly — early detection can save thousands in structural repairs.
Types of Termites Found in Colorado
The most common termites found in Colorado are subterranean termites, particularly the eastern subterranean termite and aridland subterranean termite. These termites live underground and travel through mud tubes to reach wood sources.
Most Widespread
Aridland Subterranean Termites
The aridland subterranean termite (Reticulitermes tibialis) is one of the most widespread species in Colorado, commonly found below 7,500 feet elevation. It is especially common across the eastern plains and Front Range areas.
Most Destructive
Eastern Subterranean Termites
The eastern subterranean termite is considered the most destructive termite species in Colorado. These termites are commonly associated with structural damage in homes and commercial buildings.
Less Common
Drywood Termites
Drywood termites are much less common in Colorado but have occasionally been reported on the Western Slope. It is believed they were introduced through infested furniture or lumber shipments. Unlike subterranean termites, drywood termites do not require contact with soil.
Seasonal note! Termite swarms are most commonly seen in spring and early summer in Colorado, especially after warm weather or moisture increases. Swarming termites are winged reproductive termites searching for places to establish new colonies. Even during winter, subterranean termites can remain active underground below the frost line.
FAQ: Termite Questions
Yes. While termites are not as widespread as they are in humid southern states, subterranean termites are native to Colorado. They can be found throughout much of the state, especially along the Front Range and eastern plains.
Common signs include mud tubes along foundations or walls, hollow-sounding wood, bubbling or warped paint, discarded wings near windows or doors, swarms of winged insects in spring, and wood damage that appears tunneled or layered.
Absolutely. Termites can silently damage framing, support beams, flooring, and other structural wood over time. Nationwide, termites cause billions of dollars in property damage annually.
Termites are not considered dangerous to humans because they do not bite, sting, or spread disease. However, the structural damage they cause can become a serious safety concern.
Termite inspections help identify hidden wood-destroying insect activity before a property changes ownership. In Colorado, many VA-backed home loans now require termite inspections in certain counties.
Many counties in Colorado now require wood-destroying insect inspections for VA home loans, particularly if the property is located in an area with moderate or heavy termite activity. The VA requires a detailed NPMA-33 inspection report, which we can provide.
Why Do I Have Termites?
Termites are attracted to moisture, wood-to-soil contact, and cellulose-based materials. Homes and businesses with leaky pipes, poor drainage, wood mulch near the foundation, or untreated wood can become attractive environments for termites. Even newer homes in Colorado can develop termite issues if conditions are favorable.
Some common termite attractants include:
Excess moisture around foundations
Firewood stacked against the home
Wooden fences or decks touching soil
Cracks in foundations
Crawl spaces with high humidity
Water-damaged wood
Where Are Termites Found?
Subterranean termites typically live underground in colonies and travel through mud tubes to access wood. Because termites prefer dark, hidden areas, infestations often remain unnoticed for months or even years. They are commonly found:
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Inside walls
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Beneath flooring
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In crawl spaces
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Around foundations
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Under porches or decks
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Near landscaping or tree stumps
How Do I Get Rid of Termites?
If you are wondering how to get rid of termites, the first step is identifying the extent of the infestation. DIY methods may help reduce risk temporarily, but professional treatment is usually necessary for complete elimination. Here are some steps you can take before calling us:
Steps you can take to get rid of termites
01
REDUCE MOISTURE AROUND THE FOUNDATION
Repair leaking pipes or sprinklers, ensure gutters and downspouts drain away from the home, and address any standing water near the structure.
02
REMOVE WOOD-TO-SOIL CONTACT
Keep firewood at least 20 feet from the structure, eliminate wood debris near the home, and avoid direct contact between wooden structures and the ground.
03
SEAL ENTRY POINTS
Caulk cracks around foundations and utility line penetrations to limit access points for subterranean termites traveling up from the soil.
Complete Pest Control – Our Process
At Complete Pest Control, we provide termite inspections and treatment solutions designed for Colorado homes and businesses. Our process typically includes a detailed inspection of the property, identification of termite activity and damage, treatment recommendations based on the infestation, targeted termite treatments and monitoring, and prevention guidance to reduce future activity. We also assist with termite inspections related to real estate transactions and VA loan requirements, including the NPMA-33 inspection report. Learn more about VA loan termite inspection requirements in Colorado.
How to Prevent Termites
Knowing how to prevent termites can save homeowners thousands of dollars in repairs. Prevention focuses on reducing moisture and limiting termite access to wood. Regular inspections are especially important because termites often remain hidden until damage becomes severe.
- Keep gutters and downspouts draining away from the home
- Avoid direct wood-to-soil contact
- Store firewood at least 20 feet away from the structure
- Reduce excess mulch near foundations
- Ventilate crawl spaces properly
- Seal cracks and openings around the home
- Schedule regular termite inspections
Colorado Springs · Licensed & Insured · 10+ Years Experience
Ready to Get Rid of Termites? Call Complete Pest Control.
If you suspect termites or want a professional inspection, Complete Pest Control is here to help. Whether you are dealing with termite activity in your home, managing a commercial property, or preparing for a VA loan inspection, our team can provide experienced termite services throughout Colorado. Contact us today to schedule a termite inspection, residential or commercial termite treatment, real estate inspection, or preventative monitoring.