Termite inspections are more than just a routine look behind the scenes. They can uncover several unknown problems, from bugs hiding between the walls to rodents taking over attics and other spaces. Termite damage is infamous among home and business owners for good reason—it’s among the most destructive and expensive types of pest infestations.
Regardless, most people think that when winter arrives, they’ll get a break from bugs. But this isn’t actually true. While insects and rodents aren’t as active as they are in the spring and summer, they are also not entirely inactive during the fall and winter. Sure, there’s a slowdown, but there isn’t a total cessation. Bugs and other invaders must survive, regardless of the season, including the winter months.
So, why should home and business owners bother with termite inspections when it’s much cooler outside? Well, there are several reasons. First and foremost, it is always a good idea to be proactive when it comes to pests. After all, even the most destructive pests can stay hidden for weeks and months before their presence is discovered. By that time, a significant amount of damage could already have been done, and the time and cost to repair it would be extremely extensive and expensive. With that being understood, let’s take a look at why winter is a prime time for a termite inspection and what you need to know.
The Silent Season of Termite Activity
There’s a common misconception about termites only being active in the warmer or warmest months. While most insects do slow down their activity during the coolest and coldest months, they don’t go into some type of hibernation (though they aren’t as energetic). Instead, most bugs, including termites, keep doing what they do, which is to chew and multiply. Here in Arizona, termite activity spans from September through July. That gives termites eleven months to destroy a property from the inside out.
This means it’s essential to remain vigilant and stay proactive. Therefore, it’s crucial to undergo periodic inspections, and during the cooler months, a winter inspection can help prevent significant damage. Any time between November through February will do. For homes more susceptible to termite infestations, the experts at Invader Pest Management can recommend the best times to examine and treat.
Why Cold Weather Makes Inspections Easier
First of all, cooler attic temperatures allow for safer and more thorough access. Though termites typically choose hidden areas, even when surface activity slows, it doesn’t mean they take a hiatus. The benefit of winter inspections is that they detect infestations before spring swarming begins. When the warmer months come around, it’s better to have preventative measures in place than to try to fix damage that’s already occurred.
Termites in Arizona: A Persistent Threat
There are three prominent types of termites common in this region. Perhaps the most well-known is the subterranean termite, but there are also drywood and dampwood (the latter of which are found in areas with high moisture content). And due to Arizona’s arid climate, the environment itself supports near year-round activity. Making matters worse is the fact that homes of all ages and styles are vulnerable—meaning any property is at risk, even new construction.
The Cost of Hesitation
Unfortunately, many residential and commercial property owners fail to schedule pest inspections and instead rely on their own observations to alert them to potential problems with bugs or rodents. This leaves them vulnerable, and that’s a terrible choice because by the time the damage is done, the cost to repair it far exceeds the cost of an annual inspection.
Signs You May Already Have a Problem
If you’re uncertain about scheduling an inspection, the least you can do is stay on the lookout for some signs of termite activity. These include mud tubes on foundations or walls, hollow-sounding wood or blistered paint, swarming insects near windows or light sources, as well as droppings or discarded wings. (Just know when you do discover any of these signs, it may be already too late, as termites can stay hidden for weeks or months before they are found.) So, don’t hesitate to get your home inspected and keep it safe from termites.
Why Choose Invader Pest Management
Here at Invader Pest Management, we have an excellent reputation for several reasons, including, but not limited to, our local expertise in Arizona’s termite patterns, thorough attic and crawl space inspections, our proven treatments and prevention plans, and the fact that homeowners across the Phoenix Valley trust our team.
Prevention Is Always Cheaper Than Repair
Remember, the old saying ‘it’s better to be safe than sorry’ still holds true today. Take a moment to pick up the phone and schedule a winter inspection for your home, your business, or both. If you don’t, you’re taking a considerable risk. Every day termites are allowed to chew is another day of costly damage. So, schedule your annual termite inspection with Invader Pest Management today.
We’ll not only examine your property for termites, but also for other pests, including roaches, ants, rats, and more. Our technicians have the experience and equipment to handle a wide range of pest problems, from minor to major. No matter where you’re located, whether it’s right in the heart of Phoenix or somewhere out in the suburbs or further out, Invader Pest Management is here to lend a helping hand.
Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us; simply phone 623-888-8395, and we’ll schedule a day and time that’s convenient for you.