Monsoon Termites in Phoenix, AZ

Some of us look forward to the advent of the monsoon season in Arizona. The life-giving rain quenches the thirsty desert plants and animals that depend on it. It also takes care of the human communities that have taken up residence in this dry habitat. But while we’re always grateful for a bountiful summer monsoon, not everything the rainy season brings is welcome. Plentiful rains mean pests such as termites will become more active. You need to be vigilant to prevent damage to your home and other wooden structures. 

Monsoon Termites

While termites may be at work all year long, it’s a fact of life that with the added moisture of monsoon season, monsoon termites become more active. You’ve probably observed the colonies of flying reproductive termites, also known as alates or imagos. These swarms of male and female termites are on the wing to start new colonies, with some of them eventually emerging as kings and queens. 

There are several species of termites, with somewhat differing behavior, but most are intent on nurturing kings and queens; some swarm once while others swarm several times a year. The swarms usually appear after a prolonged dry spell that is followed by a rain. 

Of the 17 species of termites found in Arizona, only a few are of concern as pests. Drywood and subterranean termites are a major urban pest. Some are easy to detect as they leave piles of fecal pellets as they eat. Subterranean termites build tubes from the damp soil into a wood source. In the desert, they normally attack greasewood and creosote bushes. Yet, removing these sources gives them no choice but to go for the manmade structures.   

Keep Monsoon Termites Out of Your Home

Termites can enter your home any time of the year, but it pays to be extra vigilant during monsoon season. Here are some tips for preventing monsoon termite infestation.

1. If you’ve bought a new home, check it out for potential infestation. Also eliminate sources of food for termites, such as firewood, scrap lumber or even dead trees. If you keep firewood, elevate it from the ground, and locate it a good distance from your house.
2. Keeping a good coat of paint on your wooden surfaces is one way to prevent drywood termite infestation. Be sure to seal cracks in the wood with putty before you paint. 
3. Make certain that window screens are intact, and cover vents with screens to prevent drywood termite infestation. 
4. If you find signs of termite infestation in your home, be calm and remember it can take many years before the insects cause structural damage. Contact Budget Brothers Termite & Pest, we have the expertise to identify what type of termite has infested your home, and the skills to eliminate it. 

Risk Factors Causing Monsoon Termites 

Despite your best efforts at prevention, your home may still be at risk: you may have a new home built where subterranean termites flourish, as mentioned above, or you may have an older wooden home or wooden shingles.

Regardless of your level of risk, if you suspect a termite infestation, call Budget Brothers Termite & Pest about an inspection. We will help ensure that when the rainy season arrives, your worries about an infestation of monsoon termites will be put to rest.