Did you know that several types of termites can be found in Idaho, and some are fully capable of damaging homes across the Treasure Valley? Termites feed on wood and other cellulose materials, and their activity often goes unnoticed until significant damage has already occurred. Knowing which species are present in Idaho and understanding how they behave can help you protect your home before a small issue becomes a major structural problem.

Below is a closer look at the termite species found in our region and the most effective ways to keep them from damaging your home.

What Types of Termites Are Found in Idaho?

Termites live in organized colonies and consume wood as their primary food source. In Idaho, the primary species of concern include:

Subterranean Termites

Subterranean termites are by far the most common and destructive species in Idaho. These termites live underground in moist soil and build protective mud tubes to reach above-ground food sources like structural lumber, fence posts, decks, and tree stumps.

Characteristics of subterranean termites include:

• They require constant moisture to survive.
• They build mud tubes on concrete foundations, inside crawl spaces, and along basement walls.
• They feed continuously throughout the year.
• They cause more structural damage than any other termite species in the United States.

Western subterranean termites and arid land subterranean termites are the two species most prevalent in southern Idaho, including the Boise, Nampa, and Meridian areas.

Dampwood Termites

Dampwood termites are larger than subterranean termites and prefer wood with very high moisture content. They are commonly found outdoors in fallen trees, fence posts, firewood, or deteriorated structures with water damage.

Dampwood termites are less problematic inside homes because typical household environments do not provide the moisture levels they need. However, they can still infest wood that has been compromised by leaks or drainage issues.

Key traits include:

• They do not build mud tubes.
• They live entirely within the wood they are feeding on.
• They seal openings with material that resembles sawdust or pellets to maintain moisture.

Drywood Termites

Drywood termites are not naturally established in Idaho. However, they can be accidentally introduced through infested furniture, picture frames, cabinetry, or even wooden shipping crates.

If they arrive inside an Idaho home, they can survive long enough to cause localized damage, especially in warm, undisturbed areas such as attics or stored furniture pieces.

Signs of drywood termite activity may include:

• Small, hard fecal pellets that resemble coffee grounds.
• Damage that appears smooth and sanded inside the wood.
• Small exit holes along surfaces where swarmers emerge.

Because these termites are uncommon in our region, any suspected drywood activity should be evaluated by a professional immediately.

How to Protect Your Idaho Home from Termites

Termite prevention works best when it focuses on removing moisture, limiting wood-to-soil contact, and reducing conditions that attract colony expansion. Here are some of the most effective prevention steps for Idaho homeowners.

1. Keep wood and cellulose debris away from your home

Firewood, lumber scraps, cardboard, and tree stumps are ideal food sources for termites. Store firewood off the ground and away from the foundation. Remove dead trees and keep mulch away from direct contact with siding.

2. Reduce moisture around the structure

Subterranean and dampwood termites are highly attracted to moisture. To reduce risk:

• Repair leaky pipes, spigots, or irrigation lines.
• Ensure gutters and downspouts move water away from the foundation.
• Improve ventilation in crawl spaces.
• Avoid landscaping that traps moisture against the house.

3. Inspect for signs of termite activity

Look for:

• Mud tubes on foundation walls or inside crawl spaces
• Wood that appears hollow or sounds hollow when tapped
• Bubbling or peeling paint that resembles water damage
• Discarded wings near windows, doors, or vents

Any sign of mud tubes or wood damage should be evaluated immediately.

4. Consider professional preventative treatments

Professionally applied soil treatments or baiting systems can provide an effective long-term barrier around your home. These services are especially beneficial for homes with a history of termite activity or homes located in high-risk areas with sandy or moist soil.

Professional Termite Control in Idaho

If you suspect termite activity or want to establish a preventative barrier around your home, contact Pestcom Pest Management. Our licensed technicians can identify the species present, assess structural risk, and create a customized treatment plan that protects your home year-round.

Termites can cause extensive structural damage if left untreated, so early action is always the most cost-effective solution.