Certain pests specialize themselves to thrive in particular environments—most often we see insects gravitate to areas that provide a warm and humid climate for as much of the year as possible. Unfortunately for us Floridians, this means that all sorts of pests thrive around our homes, one of which being termites. Although termites are active year-round in Florida, it’s important to take action before they swarm to protect your home from the destruction that they can cause. Read on to learn all about termite habits from the termite exterminators at Florida Pest Control!
When Do Termites Swarm?
Termites swarm to seek out a new source of food and a new place to live when their colony becomes too expansive for their current situation. All over the country, termites swarm when the weather becomes hospitable enough for them to go out in the open for a temporary period of time. Here in Florida, this usually falls in early March or even late February.
If you haven’t seen a termite swarm, watch out for small winged termites in your yard. If you find them inside your house, it could mean that a newly-visiting termite colony is looking to make your house their home, or worse. It could also mean that your home has already hosted a termite colony that grew so large undetected that they’re ready to swarm again.
How to Termite-Proof Your Home in Florida
There are a few ways to make your home less accessible to a termite infestation before the swarming season starts. Here are four steps we recommend you take to termite-proof your home:
- Keep moisture levels low: Termites are attracted to moisture and water-damaged wood, so make sure that your gutters are intact, your siding is in good condition, and your sprinklers aren’t spraying the walls of your home.
- Keep firewood at a distance: Storing your woodpile against your home might be convenient, but it will greatly increase your chances of a termite infestation in your home. Store it at least 20 feet away and off of the ground if possible.
- Consider an alternative mulch: As helpful as it might be for your plants, mulch attracts termites. If you decide to use mulch, keep it at a distance from your home’s siding and foundation.
- Fill cracks and holes: Termites will scope out any possible entry points to your home’s internal structures. Seal up cracks in plumbing, roofing, siding, foundation, and more with caulk.
Have Termite Exterminators Protect Your Home
If you want to ensure that your home is safe from termites before spring rolls around, reach out to your local pest control company. At Florida Pest Control, we understand how important it is to protect our customers’ homes from the most destructive pests in the state. We know termites to their core and conduct exhaustive WDI inspections to find any evidence of activity or vulnerabilities that could lead to an infestation. For a free quote, contact us today!
