From “highly possible” to “when pigs fly,” how likely do you think your home is to have termite problems this year? Although pigs aren’t likely to be flying any time soon, we have some bad news for you. Termites are. Regardless of your confidence that your home will remain termite-free in 2020, swarmers might have other plans. If you have been seeing termite swarmers inside your home, or are worried about termites, we have some information and tips you need to know.
What Is Termite Season?
Termite season is different, depending on where in the world you live. Mostly termite season is determined by environment and temperatures. If an area is warm most of the year, termite season doesn’t really end. If it’s moderate with some ups and downs like here in Modesto, termite season can fluctuate. One other thing to keep in mind is the types of termites present in the area. Here in California, we have drywood termites that swarm between September and November, and subterranean termites, that usually swarm during the day any time from spring to late fall. The only months termites don’t swarm are December, January, and usually February. Seeing that it is now March, termites and termite swarmers will be increasing their activity. The only question is, is your home protected?
The First Sign Of A Termite Infestation
Seeing termite swarmers around your home is not a good sign, but finding them indoors is a distinctly worse sign. If swarmers are seen outside, it only means there is a fully mature termite colony nearby. This colony could be several blocks away, or it could be in your back yard. If swarmers are found inside your home, however, this is bad. Unless you have a habit of leaving unscreened doors and windows open for extended periods of time, and several swarmers just happened to find their way inside, there is a good chance your home is already under attack. Holes chewed through your walls are the most likely entry points for swarmers inside your home. They are also a clear indication of a preexisting termite infestation.
How You Can Stop Termite Swarmers
If termite swarmers have not yet gotten into your home, there is still time for you to put some prevention measures in place. Here are some general termite exclusion tips we recommend.
- Seal gaps and cracks in your home’s exterior foundation using a caulking gun.
- Address moisture issues around your home by fixing leaks, repairing broken gutters, and using dehumidifiers.
- Repair or replace water-damaged or rotting wood in or around your home.
- Store firewood and or lumber at least 30 feet from your home’s exterior and do your best to keep it dry.
- Avoid using wood-based mulches anywhere close to your home’s foundation.
- Create a non-wood barrier between exterior soil and your home’s structural wood if they are touching.
- Keep your yard free of leaf piles, wood debris, and cardboard.
What To Do If You Suspect Termite Problems
If you have been seeing termite swarmers around your Modesto home, or suspect that you have termite problems already, then there is little or nothing you can do to stop them. There is, however, something we can do. Here at Peace of Mind Pest Control, we have advanced methods for identifying, exterminating, and deterring termites. Whether termites are currently eating your home, or you want a sure-fire way to make sure that they never do, we have your answers here.
Give us a call today with questions, or to schedule your home for a termite inspection or treatments.
