Termite Activity in Washington
Termites are active in almost all of the state of Washington, from Seattle to Spokane and from Olympia to Walla Walla, Washington. Some allocated portions in the northeast and northwest are unlikely to have termite activity due to the climate.
What Types of Termites Are in Washington?
Most damages done to homes in Washington are caused by subterranean termites. The western drywood termite are famous for occasionally infesting homes along the coast in Washington. Dampwood termites also are common in Washington; however, dampwood termite cause less damage to structures than subterranean and drywood termites.
Are Formosan Termites in Washington?
Formosan termites are yet to be identified in Washington.
When Do Termites Swarm in Washington?
Occasionally, termites swarm often on a warm day after a rainfall. Swarms could also happen during the winter in heated buildings. The most common species in Washington swarming habits are described below.
- The western subterranean termite occasionally swarms during the day in local rainy season either in autumn, winter or early spring.
- In coastal Washington during the day in the summer is when the western Drywood termites swarm.
- Commonly, the Pacific dampwood termite swarms just before dusk from August to October.
- The Nevada dampwood termite are known to swarm around sunset in spring at higher positions, even in summer and early fall in coastal areas.
More Information about Termites in Washington
According to Termite Infestation Probability Zones (TIP Zones), Washington is located in TIP Zone #3 (slight to moderate), which means there are tendencies potential for damages by subterranean termites. Areas with lower possibilities of termite activity demand fewer termite control measures to meet International Residential Code building standards for new homes than areas with frequent activities.
Which means that states like Washington where termites are active and in great numbers, essentially maintaining an effective termite prevention and control program is necessary. If you own a home in Washington, talking to your termite control expert about methods to help protect your home from termite infestations and damage is very important.
