Will Termites Continue to Destroy Your Home in Winter?

A lot of property owners consider a termite infestation as a costly disaster. Unfortunately, termites are active throughout the year. However, these pests may be more active during specific times of the year. These pests are less active in colder months; however, they can still do serious damage. If you have a current termite infestation, do not hesitate to contact https://saelapest.com/ for help with elimination. 

Termites have a highly organized way of life. Their behavior is highly seasonal. Termite activity tends to be high in spring and summer. As temperatures drop, activity tends to reduce as they prepare for the cold. Understanding their seasonal patterns allows for effective termite control and prevention. When it gets cold outside, you must stay vigilant and take steps to shield your home against termites. 

What Termites Do in Winter

Typically, termite activity slows down. Temperature impacts termites’ activity levels and metabolic rate. Here’s what to expect from them in winter:

• Decreased activity. When it gets colder, termites become less active. Thus, they slow down their tunneling and feeding activities. Termites stay near their nests and colonies underground.
• Limited foraging. Termites depend on a constant supply of wood and other materials with cellulose. They get these materials through foraging. When winter comes, these pests slow down their foraging activities to avoid the cold.
• Deeper nesting. To ensure their survival, termites deepen their nesting by burrowing into the soil. Such behavior helps them keep a stable environment.
• Wingless workers. A colony’s wingless termite workers remain active in winter. They continuously care for their queen and other colony members at a slower pace.
• Swarmers. Sometimes, termite swarmers still appear in winter. They fly to mate and begin new colonies.
• Indoor infestations. Although termite activity reduces in winter, these pests can stay active within your home. Termites are attracted to warmth. So, if your house offers them a suitable environment, these pests may continuously feed on its wooden structures, causing year-round damage.

Termite Prevention in Winter

To effectively prevent a termite infestation in winter, you need to be vigilant year-round and take proactive measures. Although termite activity reduces in colder months, you should do something to protect your house or property.

• Conduct regular inspections. You must inspect your property regularly to find signs of termites or damage. Keep an eye on areas that have wood like basements, attics, and crawl spaces.
• Get rid of moisture sources. Termites are drawn to moisture. Ensure there are no plumbing leaks or water drainage problems around your house to minimize moisture levels. Make sure downspouts and gutters take water away from your home’s foundation.
• Eliminate wood-to-soil contact. Keep firewood, mulch, and timber away from the foundation of your house. Use concrete or gravel to make a barrier and prevent termites from accessing your house.
• Seal openings. Cracks, gaps, and other tiny openings in the foundation, roof, and walls can allow termites to access your house. Weatherstripping, sealant, and caulk can be used to seal off these openings.
• Consult an expert. If you believe termites have invaded your house, consult a pest control expert. This expert can give you guidance and treatment options based on your specific situation.