When you think about bugs that eat wood, you might think of places far away like Florida or Texas. Most people do not think about Idaho. But the truth is termites live here too. They are in the Treasure Valley, and they can cause big problems for homes if no one stops them.

What Are Termites?

Termites are tiny insects that eat wood. They love anything made of wood because it has something called cellulose, which they use for food. In Idaho, the kind we see most often is called the subterranean termite.

These bugs live underground and build small tunnels out of dirt. They use these tunnels to stay safe while they travel between their nest and your house.

Why Idaho Homes Can Get Termites

You may wonder why termites would live here where it gets cold. The answer is that Idaho has warm summers, wet springs, and many houses have wood that is easy to reach.

Crawl spaces, basements, and damp areas are perfect for termites. Unlike carpenter ants, which only dig into wood, termites actually eat the wood. This means they can damage your home without you knowing it for a long time.

Signs of Termites in Your Home

Termites are sneaky. They work quietly, so you might not see them right away. Here are some things to look for:

• Mud tubes on the walls or foundation of your home
• Wood that sounds hollow when you tap on it
• Small piles of wings near windows or doors
• Paint that looks like it is bubbling or cracking

If you see any of these signs, it is time to act fast. Waiting can make the problem worse and cost you a lot of money.

What Happens If You Do Not Stop Them?

If termites move in, they do not stop eating. They chew through beams, floors, and walls. Over time, this can make a house weak and unsafe. The worst part is that by the time you notice damage, they may have been there for years.

How to Protect Your Boise-Area Home

Even though Idaho is not known for termites like the southern states, they still live here. Homes in Boise, Meridian, Eagle, Kuna, Nampa, and Caldwell can all get termites.

The best way to protect your home is to have it monitored by a professional termite company. A trained pest control expert can spot problems before they grow. Regular checks and treatments are the safest way to keep termites out.