Why wintertime doesn’t mean you’re safe from infestations
Winter may bring cooler temperatures to the Austin area, but that’s not enough to stop termite activity. Even in the chilliest months of the year, your home may be vulnerable to damage from these pests.
Termites in Winter?
Climates where winter is on the warmer side are more likely to see termite activity throughout the year. Termites don’t hibernate, so if it gets too cold outside, they’re likely to seek shelter indoors. Subterranean termites simply burrow deeper under the ground. Drywood termites live inside anything made of wood including support beams, walls and furniture. If you already have either type of termite in or around your home, the extent of the infestation won’t diminish come winter. That means you have to be on the lookout for signs that suggest you’re cohabitating with wood-eating pests.
Wintertime Termite Damage
The only common sign of termites you probably won’t see in the winter is a swarm. However, there are many other things you can look for to determine if you’re having a termite problem. Drywood termites are rarely seen but do leave wood-colored piles of droppings, called frass, outside of wherever they’re hiding. Subterranean termites are responsible for the small dirt tunnels you may find on the exterior of your home or foundation. Though they generally live underground, they’ll tunnel until they find wood to eat. Wet wood is especially attractive to this termite variety.
When an infestation is suspected, you might want to go around and tap the walls on your home, listening for hollow spots that shouldn’t be there. Inspect the inside and outside of the house for wood damage and take a close look at furniture. Infested pieces may display cracks or furrows, indicating a widespread termite invasion.
The best way to deter termites at any time of year is to keep your yard free of enticing wood piles and repair any damage to your home that might serve as entry points for pests. Sealing cracks also keeps moisture out, making the wood less appealing to subterranean termites. Avoid having piles of paper sitting around indoors that might attract drywall varieties.
The pest control specialists at ABC Home & Commercial Services are fully equipped to deal with termites any time of the year. If your home is overrun in the winter, give us a call and we’ll get started with a thorough inspection. From there, our treatment and follow-up services help take care of the infestation and give you peace of mind knowing that the termites are gone for good.