Protect Your Tucson Home from Subterranean Termites This Spring

Termites causing extensive damage, contributing to over $5 billion in property destruction annually.

As the flowers bloom and temperatures rise in Tucson, spring is a welcome change from the cooler months. But for homeowners, it also signals the start of an active termite season. Subterranean termites, which are a major concern in Tucson, become particularly active in the spring, seeking out new colonies and sources of food. Unfortunately, many homeowners don’t realize they have an infestation until significant damage has already been done. In this blog, we’ll dive into why subterranean termites are more active in spring, how to spot the signs of an infestation, and what you can do to protect your home this season.

Why Spring is Prime Time for Subterranean Termites in Tucson

1. Warmer Temperatures: As temperatures rise, termites become more active. The warmer environment allows termites to forage for food and moisture more easily, particularly around the foundation of your home where they can find wood to consume.

2. Swarming Season: Spring marks the beginning of termite swarming season. During this time, mature termite colonies release winged termites (called "swarmers") in search of new places to establish colonies. These swarmers often emerge around late spring, and if they find a suitable place, they can start a new colony, potentially infesting your home.

3. Moisture Availability: Springtime in Tucson brings more rain and humidity than the dry winter months, which provides subterranean termites with the moisture they need to survive and travel between their underground colonies and your home.

How Subterranean Termites Damage Homes in Tucson

1. Wood Damage: Termites eat wood from the inside out, leaving the outer layer intact, which makes early signs of damage hard to spot. They can infest beams, floors, walls, and even furniture.

2. Foundation Weakness: As termites build mud tubes to travel between their colony and your home, they can weaken your foundation over time. If left untreated, these mud tubes can cause extensive damage to structural components.

Costly Repairs: Termite damage is not just frustrating but expensive. If you don’t catch an infestation early, repairs to your home’s structure and foundation can cost thousands of dollars. Prevention is far more affordable than the cost of fixing an infestation.

Signs of a Subterranean Termite Infestation in Spring

1. Mud Tubes: Subterranean termites build mud tubes to travel from their colony to your home. If you see mud tubes running up your foundation walls, in crawl spaces, or along beams, it’s a clear sign that termites are present.

2. Swarming Termites: During the spring, termites swarm to find new locations for colonies. If you notice winged insects inside or around your home, especially near windows, doors, or light sources, you may be dealing with a termite infestation.

3. Hollow-Sounding Wood: If you tap on wooden areas in your home and they sound hollow, it could be a sign that termites have already eaten through the wood.

4. Frass (Termite Droppings): Termites often leave behind small, sawdust-like droppings called frass. If you notice frass accumulating around wooden areas or in cracks, it’s a strong indication that termites are active.

5. Buckling Floors or Walls: As termites eat away at wood, they can cause floors and walls to sag or buckle. If you notice any unusual warping or buckling, you should investigate further.

If you see any of these signs, it’s important to take action immediately.

Subterranean Termites

How to Prevent Subterranean Termites This Spring in Tucson

1. Remove Wood Debris and Mulch: Keep firewood, wooden debris, and mulch away from the foundation of your home. These materials attract termites and provide them with an easy food source.

2. Maintain Proper Drainage: Ensure that your home’s gutters and downspouts are clear and that water drains away from your foundation. Subterranean termites thrive in areas with excess moisture, so eliminating standing water around your home can reduce their attraction.

3. Trim Vegetation: Trees, shrubs, and other vegetation can provide cover for termites. Make sure that plants and tree branches are trimmed and don't touch your home’s exterior. This can reduce the risk of termites finding their way inside.

Schedule a Professional Termite Inspection: The best way to protect your home from subterranean termites is to schedule a thorough inspection by a pest control professional.

Why Professional Termite Control is Crucial in the Spring

While DIY methods can help with some pests, termites require professional intervention. Subterranean termites can be difficult to detect and eliminate without the right tools and expertise. Here’s why professional pest control is important:

• Expert Inspections: Pest control professionals can thoroughly inspect your home for signs of termites, including those hard-to-spot mud tubes or hidden infestations. Catching termites early can save you thousands in repair costs.

• Effective Treatments: Professionals use advanced treatments, such as liquid barrier treatments or termite baiting systems, that provide long-lasting protection against termites.

• Ongoing Prevention: A pest control expert can provide ongoing monitoring and maintenance to ensure that termites don’t return after treatment.

Don’t wait for termites to cause costly damage—contact a professional pest control company today to protect your home.

Spring may bring beautiful weather to Tucson, but it also brings an increased risk of subterranean termite infestations. By taking steps to prevent termites now, you can protect your home from costly damage later. If you suspect a termite problem, or simply want peace of mind with a professional inspection, contact Desert Shield Pest Control today. Our experts will help you safeguard your home against these destructive pests and provide you with the protection you need this spring.

A Trelona ATBS termite baiting system set up in a landscaped zone,

Termite Treatment (Liquid Application)