Unlike many types of seasonal pests, termites are year-round pests. Many assume that “termite season” is during the springtime because they are seen swarming. However, a termite infestation can happen at any time of the year. Once they get inside a structure, termites will work 24/7 to chew through wood, even in the fall and winter. Here in Illinois and Indiana, we are used to very cold temperatures in the fall and winter. Rather than go dormant, termites will burrow far underground while remaining at work. Because they are a year-round threat, it’s crucial to protect your property from termites not just in the fall, but in all the seasons.
Termite Activity in the Fall
The queen termite will reproduce and lay eggs all year long, allowing the colony to grow at a constant rate. The more mature a colony is, the more damage can be made to your home. If you have an infestation festering in your property for more than two years, it is very likely to begin to notice the signs of damage, even in the fall.
Due to our cold wintertime temperatures, termites may burrow deep underground to protect themselves from the cold air. This is why it’s unlikely to see termites this time of year. However, it’s still important to keep an eye out for the damage an infestation may be causing to your property.
Termite Damage in the Fall
Unless you have a very serious termite infestation, it can be difficult to know if you are dealing with termites or not. When an infestation has been ongoing for some time, there are several signs that prove the presence of termites. Look for the following things in the fall and all year long since termites are year-round pests:
- Mud tubes
- Discarded swarmer wings
- Termite frass (feces)
- Drywall discoloration
- Loose tiles or buckling floors
- Bubbling or uneven paint on walls
- Holes in drywall
- Hollow-sounding or crumbling wood
Professional Fall Termite Control
The bad news is that termites are able to infest and damage your home any time of the year, even in the fall and winter. The good news is that there are multiple options to safeguard your home against termites at any time of the year. Anderson has multiple termite treatment options to ensure your property is protected from termites in the fall and all year long. Contact our termite exterminators to learn more!
