When temperatures drop in Arizona, many homeowners assume pests like termites become inactive. Unfortunately, this isn’t the case. Desert termites remain active year-round, quietly causing damage to homes across Mesa and Phoenix. To protect your home, it’s crucial to understand their behavior, recognize signs of infestation, and take proactive steps for termite control.

The Hidden Threat of Desert Termites 

Termites are a resilient pest. During the cooler months, these silent destroyers move deeper into the soil and structural wood, seeking warmth and moisture. Termites can enter your home through cracks in the foundation or underground tunnels, feeding on wood and weakening structural components. Without timely intervention, they can cause significant damage to your property’s walls, floors, and foundation.

Key Facts About Desert Termites

Desert termites are fascinating creatures that play a vital role in maintaining the balance of desert ecosystems and are found primarily in Texas, New Mexico, and Arizona.

• Scientific Name: Gnatham¬itermes tubiformans

• Color: Light brown

• Size: Alates measure from 1/2 to 5/8 inches in length

• Swarming Behavior: Typically occurs at sunset after rain

• Habitat: Most common in the Chihuahuan Desert and surrounding regions

Another common termite is the subterranean termite, but they differ from desert termites. Desert termite alates measure from 1/2 to 5/8 inches long, whereas subterranean termite alates are less than a 1/2 inches long. Desert termite alates’ wings and bodies are light brown, but subterranean termites have black bodies and transparent wings with veins. They also swarm at different times of the year. Distinguishing between the two can be difficult, but a termite professional can help.

In the wild, desert termites excel at breaking down dead plant material, transforming it into essential nutrients that replenish and enrich the soil. This natural recycling process is crucial for maintaining the health of desert ecosystems. Their nesting habits not only improve soil quality but also enhance water retention. These benefits make them indispensable keystone species in arid environments. Desert termites are environmental engineers ensuring the vitality of the desert landscape, however they become a problem once they enter your home.

Signs of Termite Infestation

Spotting termites in the winter can be challenging since they stay hidden within wood and soil. However, there are some warning signs to watch for:

• Mud Tubes: Termites build pencil-sized mud tubes along walls and foundations to travel between their colony and food sources.

• Hollow Wood: Tapping on wood that sounds hollow may indicate termite damage.

• Discarded Wings: Swarmers, or reproductive termites, shed their wings after mating. These wings are often found near windows or doors.

• Warped Paint or Bubbling Wallpaper: Termite tunneling can push paint or wallpaper outward, creating visible distortions.

• Frass: Drywood termites leave small, pellet-like droppings near infested areas.

If you notice any of these signs, schedule a termite inspection in Mesa, AZ as soon as possible.

Why Winter Termites Are Dangerous

The greatest danger of termites in winter is their ability to stay hidden. Unlike other pests, termites do not hibernate, and their activity can go undetected for months. Left untreated, they can cause extensive structural damage, resulting in costly repairs. Investing in professional termite control is essential to prevent long-term damage and maintain your home’s integrity.

Proactive Termite Prevention Tips

Protecting your Mesa or Phoenix home from termites requires a combination of maintenance and professional solutions. Here are some steps you can take:

• Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home’s foundation, walls, and roof for cracks or gaps. Seal these areas with caulk to block termite entry.

• Eliminate Moisture: Repair leaky pipes, faucets, and roofs to reduce the moisture that attracts termites. Ensure your home’s crawl spaces and basements are well-ventilated.

• Store Firewood Properly: Keep firewood and lumber at least 20 feet away from your home and off the ground.

• Remove Wood Debris: Clear your yard of sticks, leaves, and other debris that can attract termites.

• Schedule Regular Inspections: Professional termite inspections can detect hidden activity and prevent infestations from worsening.

Why Choose Varsity Termite and Pest Control?

Desert termites may be out of sight in the winter, but they’re never out of mind for Arizona homeowners. At Varsity Termite and Pest Control, we are the top choice for protecting your home in Mesa and Phoenix from termites. Our expert team offers comprehensive inspections and effective treatments to eliminate infestations and prevent future damage. We specialize in effective eco- and family-friendly termite treatments and tailor our approach to meet your specific needs.

Take the first step in safeguarding your home by scheduling a professional termite inspection in Mesa, AZ with Varsity Termite and Pest Control. Contact us today to learn more about our services and keep your home termite-free year-round.