With chilly winter breezes settled in in Ohio and Southeast Michigan, home and business owners might believe they’re safe from termite infestations due to the colder temperatures; however, termites, just like some other common winter pests, are persistent critters that can cause significant damage regardless of the season. In fact, winter can pose unique challenges when it comes to termite prevention. In this article we are going explore termite behavior in the winter and provide some tips for preventing and battling termite infestations during the colder months.
How Active are Termites in the Winter?
As we have reviewed before, just because we may be moving slower during the colder months, it doesn’t mean these wood eating creatures do. When the cooler temperatures are present in Ohio and Michigan, termites tend to migrate to homes and businesses to stay warm. During the winter, to guard themselves against the freezing weather, termites will dig deeper tunnels into houses and businesses.
Termites are not deterred by the cold. While some species might slow down due to low temperatures, many continue to thrive by nesting deeper underground or within the structural wood of buildings where temperatures remain relatively stable. Subterranean termites, the type most common in our area, in particular, are known to stay active year round, making them a year round threat to your home and business. Your structure is the perfect winter getaway for termites because they get wood, water, and warmth.
Winter Termite Prevention Tips
Now that you know that termites are still a factor in the winter, you probably want to know how you can keep them from causing damage to your home or business. Below we review some termite prevention tips to help you throughout the colder seasons and the rest of the year.
- Regularly Inspect Structures: Just because it’s winter doesn’t mean you can skip termite inspections. Regularly inspect your property for signs of termite activity, such as mud tubes, discarded wings, unexplained sawdust, or damaged wood. Pay attention to areas that are in close contact with the ground, such as foundation walls and wooden structures.
- Eliminate Moisture: Termites, like most other pests and rodents, are attracted to moisture. Ensure proper drainage around your home or business’s foundation to prevent water from pooling. Fix any leaks promptly, both inside and outside the structure. Addressing moisture issues can make your property less appealing to these destructive pests.
- Keep Firewood Away from the Structure: Termites can use firewood as a bridge or riding point to enter your home or business. We have provided some guidance before on how to keep pests out of your firewood. If you need a refresher, you can review that article here.
- Seal Gaps and Cracks: Seal any cracks, gaps, or crevices in your structure’s foundation, walls, and roof. Termites can exploit even the tiniest openings to gain access to your property, so don’t let them. Regularly inspect and maintain the integrity of your property’s exterior.
- Professional Inspection and Treatment: Regular professional termite inspections are crucial. Pest control experts have the knowledge and tools to identify termite infestations, even in the winter. If an infestation is detected, they can recommend appropriate treatments to eliminate the problem.
Battling termites in winter requires ongoing vigilance and proactive measures. Don’t underestimate their ability to cause damage even during the colder months. By following the above termite prevention tips, you can safeguard your property and ensure that these persistent pests don’t take a toll on your home or business’s structural integrity.
Delving Pest Control is here for all of your insect pest control needs all year round. Contact us and we determine and explain what services are right for you.
