Termites are tiny insects, but they can wreak havoc on homes and structures. Many people think that termites are inactive in the winter, but that is not true. Termites can be active all year round, including in the winter. Though it tends to see less termite activity, they can still create destruction during the colder months. In this guide, we will look at whether termites get active in the winter, why they are active, and the key prevention and control measures you can take to keep your home safe.
Are Termites Active During Winter Months?
It is a common misconception that termites fall dormant during the winter months. However, this is not always the case. Termites body temperature is regulated by their environment. While some species of termites may slow down during colder months, others remain active throughout the winter. They continue their underground activities and can create damage to the wooden structures.
Winter may seem like a quieter time for termites, but it is important to remember that termites don’t go into hibernation. They stay in their colonies, shielded from the elements. And if your home is climate-controlled, termites may not enter hibernation at all.
How Do Cold Temperatures Affect Termites
Cold Temperature Lower Activity Level
During the winter months, cold temperatures can have a significant effect on the activity of termites. When temperatures drop, termites become less active and may retreat further underground. They may even hide in the middle of wood sources to avoid the cold. Termites are constantly on the hunt for food, shelter, and warmth, and when temperatures drop, they tend to retreat further underground. This is because their survival instincts tell them that they need to find a warmer place to live. They have adapted to survive in colder months and can continue to forage for food and expand their colonies.
Warmth From Structures
Termites are attracted to warm and moist environments. In colder climates, they may burrow further underground to take advantage of geothermal heat. They may also infest your home’s wood to take advantage of the heat your heating system provides.
When termites enter a building, they hide in a variety of places. Woodpiles, indoor firewood, window frames, and attics are some of the most common hiding places for termites. They can also be found in crawl spaces, basements, and other warm and moist areas.
Indoor Infestations
Winter is one of the coldest months of the year, so it is no surprise that termites can find their way into your home’s interior. In winter, temperatures are much lower, making it easier for them to survive. Different termites activity exhibit different behaviors in response to cold temperatures.
Subterranean Termites
Subterranean termites build mud tubes that lead to food sources above ground from their underground colonies. These termites may leave these mud tubes in the winter or build them deeper underground or towards your home to avoid the cold.
Drywood Termites
Unlike drywood termites, which hide in wood during the winter months, drywood termites hide in wooden structures. Drywood termites tunnel into the wood to protect themselves from cold temperatures. This behavior helps dry wood termites maintain access to a steady source of food while avoiding cold weather.
Prevention Measures
Preventing termite infestations and minimizing their activity is equally essential in winter months to protect your home. Given below are some preventive measures.
Regular Inspections
Schedule regular inspections by pest control professionals. They can detect early signs of infestations and can take immediate measures to protect your property from severe damage.
Maintaining proper Ventilation
To prevent moisture from building up and attracting termites, make sure your crawl space and attic have adequate ventilation.
Seal Entry Points
Cracks and gaps in the foundation and walls of your home can be a breeding ground for termites, so seal them as soon as possible. Also, keep an eye on where utility lines come into your home.
Install Termite Barriers
You can also install physical or chemical termite barriers around your home. This will prevent termites from entering your property.
Maintain a Clean and Dry Home
Termites are attracted to moisture. Make sure to seal all leaky pipes and faucets. Do not allow standing water sources. Use a humidifier in basements so that no moisture is built up. Ensure proper drainage around your house foundation.
Use Treated Wood
Use termite-resistant wood while renovating or building the house. These woods are pressure-treated resistant to termite infestations.
Remove Wood and Debris
Keep woodpiles and tree stumps away from your property as they can be a breeding ground for termites. Make sure to store firewood outside your home and away from the ground.
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Control Measures
If you suspect termite infestations in your house during winter, you can take some control measures:
Liquid Termiticides
Liquid termiticides can be applied to create a protective barrier around your home’s foundation to prevent them from invading your property.
Wood Treatment
In cases of extreme damage, it becomes crucial to replace the damaged wood and repair structural components.
Fumigation
If there is a severe infestation in your house, fumigation is necessary. It involves sealing your home and introducing a fumigant gas that penetrates wood and eliminates termites.
Professional Pest Control
It is better to seek professional assistance and hire a licensed pest control in Delhi that can assess the intensity of the infestation and implement proper treatment to remove termites from your home. They have the expertise and experience to handle all types of infestations safely and effectively.
Conclusion
Termites don’t just go dormant in the winter. They can stay active all year round, especially in warm indoor spaces. When it comes to preventing and controlling termites, you need to make sure you are doing everything you can. That means regular inspections, controlling moisture, sealing off entry points, and when needed, getting professional pest control services. By being vigilant and taking proactive steps, you can reduce the chances of getting a termite infestation and protect your home from the expensive damage these tiny but deadly insects can inflict. Preventing termites is much better and cheaper than spending on termite treatment.