How Common Are Termites in Washington?
WouterIf you live in Washington, you may be concerned about termites. They can cause significant damage to your home, and it’s easy to overlook them if you’re not aware of the signs.
Termites live in dark, moist areas and cannot withstand sunlight. They also tend to prefer wood that is rotting or with water damage. You can reduce their attraction to your home by reducing moisture in the home and removing water-damaged wood.
In Washington, there are two types of termites: the Western Subterranean Termite and the Pacific Dampwood Termite. They differ in appearance depending on their caste.
The western subterranean termite is a small pest that eats wood cellulose. It’s common in many areas of Washington, particularly the east of the Cascade Mountains. Generally, they will nest in the soil or in a tree stump.
The pacific dampwood termite is more common in western Washington. It swarms during the day in the summer and at dusk during the autumn. It requires a moist environment, like a roof that leaks or wet wood.
While termites can be difficult to spot, they leave some tell-tale signs. Among them are mud tubes, which run up the wall of a foundation or basement. These tubes are about the width of a pencil. If you notice one of these tubes, you’ll want to have a professional look at your property.
The queen of a colony is about half an inch long. It is creamy white in color and looks similar to a grain of rice. She is the only individual in the colony that feeds. The other members of the colony are called alates. They will eventually leave the colony and form new colonies.
