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Winter is a time when many people believe that termites have become inactive. While termites may slow down their activity during winter, they are still active and can cause considerable damage to your home. Understanding the behavior of termites during the winter months is essential for protecting your home from these pests.
In this blog, we will learn more about the behavior of termites during the winter months and the necessary steps to prevent termites from invading your home in the winter.
The Behavior of Termites during the Winter
1. Termites Slow Down Their Activity during the Winter
Termites enter your home during the summer months, seeking shelter from the cold. They will burrow into the wood of your home and begin to feed on the cellulose inside, weakening the structure and causing structural damage.
During the winter, termites will become dormant, slowing down their activity and conserving energy. This does not mean that they will stop feeding on your home, however, and they can still cause considerable damage.
2. Termites Seek Areas of Warmth to Stay Active during the Winter
Termites are cold-blooded, so they often seek areas of warmth to stay active during cold winter. They may burrow deeper into the wood, looking for areas with higher temperatures. They may also seek out warm air leaks in your home, such as around windows and doors or near pipes and heating ducts.
3. Termites Forms Colony during the Winter
There is a misconception that termites die in the winter. This is not true, and termites will remain active during winter if they find an area of warmth. If a termite colony finds a suitable warm environment in your home, it can continue to feed and cause damage throughout the winter.
Steps to Prevent Termites from Invading Your Home in the Winter
Next, let’s discuss how to prevent termites from invading your home in the winter.
1. Seal Any Cracks and Crevices around Your Home
The best way to do this is to make sure that your home is well-sealed and free of any excess moisture. Make sure all cracks and crevices are sealed, and that your windows and doors are fitted with weatherstripping to prevent cold air from entering the home.
2. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Make sure your gutters and downspouts are in good condition, as this can help to prevent water from leaking into your home and creating a damp environment that can attract termites.
3. Keep Your Home Dry
Pay close attention to areas such as crawl spaces, basements, and attics, and make sure they are properly ventilated and have no standing water. Check for any plumbing leaks and repair them as soon as possible.
4. Inspect Your Home for Signs of Infestation
It is important to inspect your home for signs of infestation, such as mud tubes or wood damage. You should also have your home inspected by a professional pest control company. This can help to identify any areas of infestation that you may not have noticed.
5. Keep Wood Away from Your Home
Storing wood, such as firewood, on your property can provide a source of food and shelter for termites, so it is important to store wood away from your home. Additionally, you should avoid piling any organic debris, such as leaves, against your house, as this can also be an attractive habitat for termites.
Conclusion
By understanding the behavior of termites during the winter months and taking steps to protect your home, you can reduce the chances of a termite infestation in your home. If you suspect you have a termite infestation, contact a professional pest control company as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Are you looking for reliable pest control services in Fresno, CA? Look no further than RidX Pest Control! We have the experience and knowledge to help you protect your home or business from pests like ants, termites, roaches, and rodents. Give us a call today to learn more about how we can help keep your property pest-free!
