People often assume that springtime is “termite season”. However, termites are active throughout the entire year here in Virginia. While termites don’t swarm in the fall and winter, they remain active in or under your property. The only thing that changes during this time of year is their routine. Many types of termites will move deeper in the ground through tunnels to escape colder temperatures. However, they can still cause damage to your home and, even worse, grow their colony. For this reason alone, it’s important to know how to look for signs of termites in your home, even in the fall. Keep reading to learn more.
What are the Signs of Termite Damage?
Signs of termite damage often appear when you have a more serious infestation in your property. In the fall, winter, and all other seasons, it’s important to look for the following signs of termite damage:
- Ceiling/wall discoloration
- Termite frass (feces)
- Sagging sheetrock
- Buckling floors
- Loose tiles
- Bubbled floors
- Holes in drywall
- Crumbling wood
- Hollow windows and/or doors
- Shed swarmer wings
Termite Activity in the Autumn
Termites may not be swarming in the fall and winter, but that doesn’t mean they’ve gone dormant. The termite queens lay eggs year-round and at a steady rate. This means that termite colonies will not only stay active but continue to grow during the fall and winter. Maturity is the number one determinant in a colony’s ability to damage your home. A two to four-year-old colony can cause damage in your property any time of the year. Termites need to stay warm in colder temperatures, which is why they will nest 25 to 30 feet down in the soil during the winter. This is why it’s unlikely to see termites this time of year even though they’re active.
Termite Infestations in the Fall
Because termites are active all year long, you need to be preventing them all year long. The termite exterminators at Ehrlich know how distressing it can be to discover an infestation, which is why we work to prevent them in the first place with preventative services. Reach out to our team today to learn about all of our termite treatment and prevention options!