Are Termites Active During the Fall and Winter?

One thing you should know about termites is that you can never let your guard down.

Even in the fall and winter?

Yes, even in the fall and winter.

Termites will dwell in and munch away at your home at whatever time/season they see fit.

Here’s everything you need to know:

The Only Thing Termites Change in the Winter is Their Routine

Termites stay active during the winter, but their routine changes. They move deeper into the ground so that they can stay warm. Because summer food sources might die due to cold weather, alternate tunnels are dug. These tunnels are deeper and are used to get termites from point A to B—which is always near or in your home. Make note that if you home is warm during the fall and winter, termites might not deviate too much from their summer patterns.

Queens Lay Fall and Winter Eggs So Colonies Will Continue to Grow

Termite queens lay eggs year-round and at a steady rate. This means that termite colonies will not only stay active but continue to grow during the fall and winter. This is especially true in Louisiana where hot weather can last well into December—we all remember last year when we couldn’t tell the difference between Christmas and Independence Day.

Finding Termites in Your Home During the Fall and Winter is Possible

Termites can be found in your home’s walls, foundation, and other sheltered areas during the fall and winter. It’s possible that you will find them. If/when you do, it’s best to contact a termite control company right away. They are the trained professionals that will know what to do to solve your problem.

One thing that you won’t see during the winter is swarming termites. This is something that’s reserved for the warmer months—usually March-November.

A Mature Colony Can Damage Your Home Regardless of the Season

Maturity is the number one determinant in a colony’s ability to damage your home. A two to four-year-old colony can damage your home in the fall and winter. As previously mentioned, the colony can also multiply. This is a problem—termite damage substantially increases with colony growth.

The Most Common Signs of Termite Damage Can Be Seen Year-Round

You should look for the following key signs of termites:

• Ceiling/wall discoloration
• Sagging sheetrock
• Buckling floors
• Loose tiles
• Bubbled floors
• Holes in drywall
• Crumbling wood
• Hallow windows and/or doors

If you find any of these signs, you should contact a termite control company. They can inspect your home and find out if termites are actually present. If they are, the control company can take steps to eliminate the termites from your home as soon as possible.

Preventative Measures Can Be Taken Year-Round

Termite prevention can be taken year-round. You should:

• Seal all water and gas lines
• Get rid of all cellulose material—it’s a popular food source
• Fix leaky appliances
• Make sure no water is pooling in or around your home

While these are great preventative measures, you should know that nothing protects your home more than treatment by a professional termite control company. These companies know everything there is to know about termites and will do what it takes to protect your home.

Conclusion—What You Now Know

Termites are active during the fall and winter. It’s important to take preventative measures to protect your home. It’s also important that you keep an eye out for signs of termites and/or termite damage. If signs are present, contact us as soon as possible.