While some pests are less active during the winter, termites can prosper year-round. Despite the cold weather, they will keep foraging for food. They can keep themselves warm by seeking shelter in deeper, more insulated areas. Additionally, termite queens will continue laying eggs, while some termites may even swarm during winter.

However, this wintertime activity varies, depending on the type of termite they are. In the U.S., there are around 45 different varieties of this pest. Certain types of termites can be especially destructive, including subterranean, dry wood, and Formosan species. Here’s a look at these types and the damage they can cause.

Subterranean Termites (Ground Termites)

These pests live underground and can travel down as far as 150 feet deep in search of wood. In this case, their food source will likely be the foundation of houses. Subterranean termites cause about 95 percent of termite damage in North America and are found throughout the United States, especially in warmer regions of the country.

Astonishingly, a single colony can have over one million termites and eat up to 15 pounds of wood weekly! Not only can they devastate home foundations, but they have also been known to damage support beams, plastic pipes, insulation, and more.

During the winter, these termites tend to dig even deeper into the ground to find the warmth they need. Feeding spots closer to the surface may be left behind until the weather warms up again.

Once temperatures rise, they’re more likely to find their way into your home’s foundation- if they haven’t already established themselves there in winter- where they can continue to wreak havoc.

Drywood Termites

Drywood termites live above ground inside wood structures, such as door frames, window frames, and attics. Because of this, homeowners usually don’t even know that their homes are infested. However, this could mean that the wood is crumbling from the inside out.

While colder climates normally kill off these pests, unfortunately, drywood termites can survive Florida winters. This is because it takes an extended period of subfreezing temperatures to kill them. As a result, these resilient pests pose a risk to homes year-round.

Formosan Termites

This invasive species likely entered the United States through port cities and can spread rapidly. Unlike many other termites, they can also infest living trees and plants. While they tend to be less active in colder weather, they can continue to thrive during winter months.

Formosan termites have also been known to swarm in late spring and summer: after swarming, kings and queens land, shed their wings, and search for a new nesting spot. This is especially common in Florida.

Signs of Termite Infestations

It’s important to actively monitor your home for signs of termites. One of the most characteristic signs is their droppings. Termite feces are small, wood-colored pilings that resemble sand or dirt. These are usually left in small piles by walls, doors, and window frames. Although this is a common warning sign, it's important to note that not all termite species leave droppings like this.

Other signs include:

• Mud-like tunnels that come up from the ground—if you tear them down but they reappear, this is a sign of termites.
• Water bubbles, warped walls, floors, or ceilings— these can be signs of resulting water damage and may also have a moldy smell.
• Holes in wooden furniture or walls—if there is soil (termite droppings) around the edges, this is a trademark sign.
• Wings piled near doorframes, windows, and light fixtures. This is a sign of active infestation and could indicate a large colony living in or near your home.

Expert Termite Control Services

If you suspect your home has termites, it’s essential to act quickly and contact a professional pest control company.

At Turner Pest Control, our experts easily handle termite infestations, no matter the season. Our thorough inspections cover areas where termites can enter your home and cause damage. During inspection, we block entry points, including plumbing and utility entrances. Moreover, Turner offers multiple effective termite treatment options, including minimally disruptive treatments that won’t compromise your landscaping. The SMART TurnerGuard Termite plan is our premier option, offering comprehensive pest and termite control.

Don’t wait, termites won't stop until you step in. Call the Turner team at (800) 225-5305 or fill out our free inspection form today.