When monsoon season arrives in Arizona, termites follow suit. It seems like the termites flourish with the wet weather, but have you ever been curious as to why?
Termites feed on cellulose which is found in dead plant and tree matter. So, what would make a tree or plant that much more munchable and easy to digest? You guessed it: dampness.
Termites Thrive in Rain
Termites gravitate towards moist areas. They love soggy soil, mushy florae, and saturated lumber. Subterranean termites live in the soil. This specific termite species love the rain especially.
It is no wonder that during the rainiest months, they absolutely prosper. What doesn’t prosper is your unprotected home.
Termites plus rain, what does that equal?
- Ideal mating environments
- Easily consumable food sources
- They can dig tunnels much easier
A lot of rain plus an adequate food source creates a lot of trouble!
How to Spot Termites
If your home is unprotected during the heavy rains, you will first want to inspect your home to see if you can spot traces of these invasive critters.
Some signs a termite invasion is:
- Mud tubes near the bottom of your home
- Wing fragments in window sills
- Soft spots in the wood
- Chipping or cracking paint
- Termite feces, or “frass” resembling sawdust
If you don’t see any of these signs, there is still time to get your home properly termite-proofed! If you do notice one or more, you may want to call our termite professionals for a proper diagnosis.
How to Protect Your Home
If you have experienced rainfall in large amounts or have standing water in or near your home, you will want to get protection immediately. To make sure that termites don’t become an issue, there are measures you can take!
- Seal any leaks, cracks or holes in your windows, roofs and doors
- Monitor any areas that collect excess moisture
- Look out for areas that flood easily
Taking precautions is always the best way to prevent infestation from happening in the first place!
Talk to the Professionals
If you fear that you may have been vulnerable this season to a termite infestation, don’t hesitate to contact our Phoenix termite treatment and inspection experts who can tell you for sure! There is no need to let this time pass wondering when you can be certain and its not worth it trying to kill termites yourself with the chemical that are needed.