As a veteran of those frigid winters in Illinois, you may be thinking termites can’t possibly survive the city’s brutal wind, cold, snow, and ice. The reality is that, unlike many insect species, these pests are a threat all year round. This is mostly due to the fact that some termites species burrow into the soil, allowing them to stay warm even in the winter months. Unfortunately, this means that you could be dealing with a termite problem in the heart of winter and not even know! Anderson Pest Solutions has the information you need to keep these wood-eating bugs at bay not just in the winter but year-round—read on to learn more!
Are Termites Active in the Winter?
If termites haven’t yet invaded your home by the chilly late fall weeks, you may be safe for the winter. These pests sometimes die when the temperature dips below 48 degrees. But the subterranean variety may just burrow deeper into the earth to stay warm, surviving in moist tunnels around the perimeter of your home. If you’re already the victim of an infestation, you’ll find that termite colonies are most likely still active inside, although at a slower pace than during the warmer months. And while these pests are moving slower this time of year, they remain a huge threat to the very structure of your home.
Signs of Winter Termites
They may be moving more slowly, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t wreaking havoc. Termite populations are able to do the most damage to your home when you’re unaware of their existence. Knowing what to look for could mean catching the problem early on and saving a lot of money on structural damage repair. Any of the following could signal a termite infestation:
- Warped wood
- Bloated walls
- Termite wings or bodies
- Hollow-sounding baseboards, floors, and walls
- Damp tunnels, called mud tubes, are often near your home’s foundation
If you see any of these signs, it’s time to contact a professional termite control service. The sooner you call in the pros, the less extensive the damage is likely going to be.
Protect Your Home From Termites Year-Round
If you’re like many Chicagoans, you may have thought termites weren’t a concern during the winter months. Luckily, they don’t have to be—if you know the warning signs and take immediate action. The expert technicians at Anderson have the know-how and experience to banish these pests with safe, effective termite control treatments. Contact us today to get started!
