Are Termites Active in Winter? Signs and Prevention Tips
Termites are called the silent killers of the home because, more often than not, they cause damage before you know you have a termite infestation. Once you notice the signs, it may be too late. Termites are social insects that feed on the wood of your home from the inside out, slowly causing damage that can compromise its stability.
The reason that termites are called social insects is that they create a caste system where every member has a role to support the colony. These hungry insects are inherently driven to work in a unit, so they are every homeowner’s worst nightmare. When there’s one, there are many, and their collective destruction could cost you your home.
Termites are known to thrive in the spring and summer months, but have you ever considered whether they are active in winter? In short, the answer is yes.
Many homeowners believe termites are a problem for the warmer months, but that is only half the truth. Some termites do indeed die off as temperatures begin to drop, but some have adapted to colder conditions and can survive through the winter months. That’s why at Vulcan Termite and Pest Control INC., we recommend annual termite inspections and treatments to prevent infestations and protect your home no matter the season.
Keep reading to learn more about the signs of a termite infestation and our advice to prevent one.
More to the Story: Are Termites Active in Winter?
There’s more to the story when it comes to termites and cold weather. The big question is: are termites active in winter? We know they are, but their habits and patterns vary depending on the time of year. Termites tend to dig deeper underground during colder months for food sources, so they don’t have to surface when temperatures are low. As long as they have a means to feed, termites can thrive anywhere.
Check out this helpful guide to learn more about other pests to watch out for this winter: Keep These Cold-Weather Bugs Out of Your Home This Winter
Signs of a Termite Infestation
If you suspect termite activity in your house, here are a few things you might notice:
- Mud tubes indicate that you likely have an infestation. These tunnels create pathways to food sources and shelter.
- What appears as blistered wood could be termites burrowing. This can be mistaken for water damage.
- You might notice wings lying around the house from new termites.
- Termite droppings, also known as frass, resemble wood-colored pellets. You might notice this along baseboards or a nearby wall.
The Name of the Game in Termite Control.
Are termites active in winter? Yes.
Should you take action? Absolutely.
Whether you suspect termite activity in your home or want to prevent an infestation in the future, Vulcan Termite and Pest Control INC. have solutions for you. After all, we are the name of the game in termite control.
We offer a free termite inspection and various services that solve every termite problem—no matter how big or small! With over 40 years of commercial and residential termite experience in Birmingham, we guarantee reliable protection and lasting results.
Schedule your free inspection now—call (205)-663-4200 or contact us online!