Termites Are Still Active In Phoenix & Tucson

Termites are a significant pest issue in Arizona, particularly in areas like Tucson and Phoenix, where the climate is conducive to termite activity. Although termite swarms often occur in the spring and early summer when the weather becomes warmer and more favorable for termite colonies to reproduce, this year the termites were several weeks behind schedule. Thanks to a longer drought period and a later rain season, more homeowners in Southern Arizona reported sightings of termites in their homes and on their properties in October. What’s more, we’re still fielding calls from concerned property owners who’ve found termites in the rocks around their plants in the backyard, termite mud tubes on brick patios and foundations, and other signs of termites inside. In today’s blog, we’ll take a closer look at why it’s important to keep an eye out for termites, how to tell if you have a termite problem, and how our locally operated pest control company exterminates these wood-destroying insects.

Why you should be concerned about termites

Homeowners in Phoenix, Tucson, and throughout Southern Arizona should be on the lookout for termite activity because termites can cause substantial damage to structures. The following are reasons why vigilance is crucial:

• Structural damage
  Termite damage is no laughing matter. These insects feed on wood and other cellulose-based materials, such as paper and cardboard. Their continuous feeding can weaken the structural integrity of buildings, leading to costly damage and repairs.
• Concealed activity
  Termites often work in concealed areas, making their presence difficult to detect until significant damage has already occurred. They can be hidden behind walls, in crawl spaces, or within the structure's wooden framework.
• Costly repairs
  Repairing termite damage can be expensive, and homeowners' insurance typically doesn't cover termite-related damage. Regular inspections and early detection can help prevent more extensive damage and reduce repair costs.

Signs of a termite infestation

• Termite swarms
  Termite swarms are a clear sign of a nearby colony. If homeowners observe termite swarms or find discarded wings around their property, it's essential to take action to prevent infestations. In some cases, you might not see an actual swarm take place but find discarded wings on windowsills, floors, or other surfaces shortly after.
• Termite mud tubes
  Subterranean termites build mud tubes (also called tunnels) to travel between their underground nests and the wood they’re infesting. Mud tubes may be visible on the exterior and interior as well as surrounding property, as noted above. If you see termite mud tubes, it’s a clear indication of termite activity.
• Wood damage
  Subterranean termites feed on the wood from the inside out, often leaving a thin layer of wood or paint on the surface. It you tap on a wood surface, and it sounds hollow or appears to be falling apart, it could be a sign of termite damage. You might also see sagging ceilings, buckling floors, or bubbling or peeling paint if termites are active inside your home.

For more signs of termites, visit Warning Signs Of A Termite Infestation. 

What to do if you have termites

If you’ve found termites, termite damage, or other signs of termite activity in your home, contact Northwest Exterminating right away. Offering effective termite control in Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tucson as well as throughout our Southern Arizona service area, our state certified inspector will perform a termite inspection and then, based on the findings, recommend the best termite treatment for your situation!

Let our exterminators protect your home from termites & other pests

In addition to our standalone termite treatments, Northwest Exterminating also offers year-round home pest control services that protect against ants, spiders, and other common household pests, PLUS termites. Check out the plan benefits below or request a free consultation!

How to prevent termite infestations

Make your property less attractive to termites with these termite prevention tips:

• Remove wood-to-soil contact
• Divert water away from your home’s foundation
• Reduce mulch and debris
• Remove dead or dying trees
• Seal cracks and gaps
• Make sure your home is properly ventilated
• Eliminate moisture problems