Everyone who owns a home worries about termites. Termites can be very destructive creatures that can cause major damage to your home. So, when, or what time of year should you worry about termites swarming? The truth is, termites can swarm virtually any time of the year. Subterranean termites “swarm” as the weather begins to warm, usually at the beginning of spring after a rain event. They are a group of termites looking to begin their own, new colony. Not all termite species swarm at the same time, but for a swarm to occur, the weather must be warm, often following a rain.
Aside from the weather, another reason for termites to swarm is the age of the colony. Although there’s no specific age at which a colony can swarm, subterranean termite colonies typically do not produce a swarm until they are at least three years old. As a part of the natural cycle, termites swarm in order to start new colonies.
Termites don’t discriminate when seeking a new home for their swarm, they are simply looking for a dark, dry place to nest in. Termites cause about $5 billion in damage, every year in the U.S.
So now that you know termites can swarm at virtually any time, is there anything you can do to avoid them? Since termites are interested in moist places then it would make sense to do your best to eliminate such places around your home. Broken roof tiles are one area of concern as they create moisture. Make sure to repair any broken roof tiles. Another area of concern is around air conditioners. If possible, air conditioners should be located away from the foundation of a house.
Another way to help prevent termites is to simply check for them. Periodic inspections of attics and foundations can help spot termites before they become a problem.
