Why Spring is Prime Time for Termite Inspections and Prevention

As temperatures rise in the White Mountains, so does termite activity. Spring marks the beginning of termite season, making it the best time to schedule an inspection and take preventative measures before an infestation gets out of control.

Termites can cause extensive structural damage to homes and businesses, often without immediate signs of their presence. If left unchecked, these pests can cost homeowners thousands of dollars in repairs. A proactive approach to termite inspections and prevention this spring can save you time, money, and stress in the long run.

Why Are Termites More Active in Spring?

Spring provides the ideal conditions for termite activity due to:

• Rising temperatures – Warmer weather encourages termites to become more active and start foraging.
• Increased moisture – Spring rains create damp wood and soil, which attract termites looking for a food source.
• Swarming season – Spring is when termites reproduce, sending out winged swarmers in search of new nesting sites.

If you see termite swarmers around your home, it’s a major warning sign that a colony may be nearby—or already inside your structure.

Signs You Need a Termite Inspection This Spring

A professional termite inspection can identify signs of activity before major damage occurs. Look out for:

1. Mud Tubes Along Foundation or Walls

Subterranean termites build mud tubes to travel between their colony and a food source. These tunnels are often found along the foundation, exterior walls, or crawl spaces.

2. Hollow or Damaged Wood

Tap on wooden beams, walls, or flooring—if it sounds hollow, termites may have already caused damage beneath the surface. You might also notice bubbling paint or warped wood.

3. Discarded Wings Near Windows and Doors

Termite swarmers shed their wings after finding a new nesting site. If you find small, translucent wings around doors, windows, or light fixtures, termites could be nearby.

4. Frass (Termite Droppings)

Drywood termites push out frass, or tiny wood-colored droppings, as they tunnel through wood. If you see small piles of sawdust-like debris, termites might be inside your home.

5. Tight-Fitting Doors and Windows

As termites consume wood, they create moisture buildup, which can cause doors and windows to warp and become difficult to open.

Why Spring is the Best Time for Termite Prevention

Stopping termites early is much easier than dealing with an active infestation. By scheduling a spring inspection, you can:

• Identify early warning signs before termites spread.
• Apply preventative treatments to stop colonies from forming.
• Protect your home from expensive structural damage.

How to Prevent Termites This Spring

1. Reduce Moisture Around Your Home

Termites thrive in damp conditions. To make your property less attractive to them:

• Fix leaking pipes and eliminate standing water near the foundation.
• Clean gutters to prevent excess moisture buildup.
• Ensure proper drainage to keep soil around your home dry.

2. Keep Wood Away from the Foundation

Termites feed on wood and other cellulose materials. To reduce their access to your home:

• Store firewood and lumber at least 20 feet away from your house.
• Keep mulch and wood debris away from the foundation.
• Trim tree branches and shrubs that touch your home.

3. Seal Entry Points

Even small cracks in your foundation or siding can provide termites with an entry point. Seal up:

• Gaps around utility lines and plumbing pipes.
• Cracks in concrete foundations.
• Any openings around doors and windows.

4. Invest in Professional Termite Protection

While DIY methods can help reduce the risk, the most effective way to prevent termites is with professional inspections and treatments.

At Neff Exterminating, we offer:

• Comprehensive termite inspections to detect activity early.
• Preventative treatments to keep your home termite-free.
• Custom termite control solutions for homes and businesses.

Schedule Your Spring Termite Inspection Today

Spring is the most important time of year to schedule a termite inspection and start prevention efforts. Don’t wait until termites cause expensive damage—take action now.

- Call (928) 536-6862 to schedule your termite inspection.
- Visit www.neffexterminatinginc.com/contact to book an appointment.

By acting early, you can protect your property, avoid costly repairs, and enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is termite-free.