Can You Get a Termite Infestation in the Winter?

Insects, like all animals, are often affected by weather and the seasons. If you live in an area with significant seasonal changes, you are probably familiar with the nuisance of pests that move indoors as the weather gets colder, as well as the joy of not having to worry about certain others until their season rolls around again – we’re looking at you, mosquitos. But how do these seasonal changes affect termites? Can termites still infest your home in the winter? Here is everything you need to know. 

Termites Mind the Cold…

Termites are in fact affected by lower temperatures. If you live in a region with cold winters, the colder months will limit the activity of termites, forcing them to dig deeper underground and preventing them from travelling as far to acquire food. This is good news for unheated buildings; it is unlikely that your summer cabin will become infested in the winter while uninhabited, as the termites will be deterred from coming so close to the surface. The other advantage of winter in terms of dealing with termites is that bait is often more effective. Because termites will not cover as much ground as usual in order to stay warm, they will be more likely to find termite bait attractive, rather than venturing out for other options. 

But Not Too Much.

The bad news is, for heated homes, termite activity will continue quite the same as normal in the winter. The heat from inside your home will allow the termites to burrow into your foundation without issue. So, if you heat the inside of your home, you can certainly still get a termite infestation in the winter. The other side of the bad news is, as you have probably gathered, temperature is the main factor that affects termites in the winter. This means, if you live somewhere that has warm weather year-round, you shouldn’t expect any respite from them in the winter either. Termites, unfortunately, do not take vacations.

But Don’t Despair!

Luckily, you can also get rid of a termite infestation at any time of the year, especially winter! If you find evidence of an infestation in your home, it is always best to get the help of a professional as soon as you can. Contact Action Pest and Turf to make sure that you and your loved ones are the only ones living in your house, no matter the time of year.