Termite season typically peaks in Orlando from March through November, and understanding this can save you a lot of trouble.
Wondered how to protect your home during these critical months? Keep reading to learn more about termite prevention tips.
Key Takeaways
- Termite season in Orlando typically peaks from March to November, particularly in late spring and summer.
- Species like subterranean termites may remain active year-round due to the warm climate, making proactive measures essential.
- Distinguishing termites from other pests involves checking for mud tubes, frass, and swarmer wings near window sills.
- To protect your home, employ moisture control, maintain your lawn properly, and consider professional termite barriers or treatments.
When to Expect Termite Swarms in Orlando
In Orlando, termite swarms are most commonly observed in late spring and throughout the summer months. These insects are more active in warm weather, looking for new homes and food sources.
During this time of year, they emerge in large numbers. Winged termites, known as alates, swarm from their colonies to mate and establish new colonies.
The warm temperatures speed up their metabolism, making it easier for them to digest cellulose in wood. The moisture in the air prevents their delicate bodies from drying out.
This period also aligns with the reproductive cycle of common types of termites, including subterranean termites (including Eastern subterranean termites), Formosan termites, and drywood termites.
How to Get Rid of Swarming Termites in Orlando
Ignoring these can damage wooden structures, especially during the termite-swarming season. So, it’s essential to address the issue promptly.
The first step in termite control is early detection. Consider common indicators such as:
- discarded wings
- mud tubes along your walls or foundation
- visible damage to wooden structures
Once you’ve identified these warning signs, contact a professional pest control company. They can assess the severity of the infestation and recommend treatment options.
In the meantime, there are proactive steps you can take. Installing bait stations around your property is an effective long-term strategy. They attract termites, allowing the poison to be carried back to the colony to get rid of them slowly.
How to Protect Your Home During Termite Season
Successful elimination of termites precedes year-round protection, especially during termite season. As homeowners, you should protect your homes with preventative measures.
To reduce the risk of termite infestation during peak season, here’s what you can do:
- Moisture Control: Fix any leaks and reduce moisture around the foundation. Termites are attracted to damp environments.
- Mulch Management: Keep mulch at least 15 inches away from the foundation. Mulch can trap moisture and attract termites.
- Proper Lawn Care: Maintain your lawn by keeping grass short and eliminating wood debris. This reduces potential nesting sites for termite colonies.
- Home Maintenance: Seal cracks and crevices in the home’s exterior. Keep gutters clean and ensure proper drainage to avoid water accumulation.
- Barrier Treatments: Consider professional chemical barriers or bait systems around your home. These can help stop termites before they reach your house.
- Wood Treatment: For new constructions or renovations, use termite-resistant wood. For added protection, treat existing wood structures with insecticides.
- Monitoring Stations: Install monitoring stations around the perimeter of your home. This will help in the early detection of any termite species.
- Remove Wood-to-Ground Contact: Ensure that wooden parts of your home do not touch the ground. Use concrete bases where possible.
- Hire Pest Control: Schedule professional inspections at least once a year to catch early signs of infestation.
When to Call a Termite Expert in Orlando
Spring and summer in Orlando often mean termite activity. If a wooden structure sounds hollow, termites may have chewed through it, leaving a thin layer on the surface.
If this is the case, immediately call a termite expert in Orlando for peace of mind. These pests are a persistent problem, but they can be managed effectively with the help of pest control experts, like us here at Rowland Pest Management.