When the harsh Illinois winter settles in, most of us are busy cranking up the heat. We often assume the freezing weather across the state will naturally kill off pests. Unfortunately, this is a common myth when it comes to termites.
While many insects die off or sleep, termites are very tough. They do not simply disappear when the snow starts to fall in Chicago or Springfield. These pests are experts at finding warmth.
Often, that warmth comes from the very homes we live in. Reliable Pest Solutions understands exactly how local weather influences pest behavior. They can help you ensure your property stays protected even during the coldest months.
How Termites Survive the Deep Freeze
Termites are cold-blooded, so they rely on their environment to stay warm. In Illinois, the ground can freeze several inches deep. Normally, this would be fatal for them. To survive, subterranean termites dig much deeper into the soil.
They travel below the frost line, where the earth stays at a steady temperature. By retreating several feet underground, they stay warm enough to survive brutal Illinois blizzards. They remain active during this time, though they move more slowly as they wait for spring.
Moving Into Your Illinois Home
The biggest problem for local homeowners is that our houses are perfect winter refuges. When we heat our homes, that warmth radiates into the soil around the foundation. Termites can detect this heat and will tunnel toward it to escape the frozen ground.
Once they find a warm foundation, they may build mud tubes to enter the house. In Illinois, heated basements and crawl spaces act like a beacon for these pests.
Once they get inside your walls, the temperature stays steady. This allows them to keep eating your wood all winter long.
Signs of Winter Activity in the Midwest
Since termites are hidden behind walls, they are hard to find in the winter. You will not usually see them swarming as you do in the spring. However, there are still clues to look for.
You might notice small mud tubes on your foundation or in your basement. These tubes look like thin veins of dried dirt. They act as protected tunnels for the termites to move through. You should also check for any wood that sounds hollow when you tap it.
In Illinois, we spend more time indoors during the winter, so it is a good time to inspect your utility rooms for these signs.
The Role of Moisture and Snow
Moisture is another key factor for termite survival. When snow piles up against an Illinois home and then melts, it soaks the soil near the foundation. Termites need moisture to live, and this damp earth is exactly what they want.
If you have poor drainage or leaky pipes, you are providing them with a drink and a warm place to stay. It is helpful to keep snow cleared away from your foundation.
You should also make sure your gutters are working correctly. By keeping the area around your home dry, you make it much less inviting for pests.
Planning for the Spring Thaw
Termites remain active through winter, but the real danger emerges during the Illinois spring thaw. This is when winged termites swarm to establish new colonies. If a colony has nested in your home all winter, you may find these swarms indoors as soon as the weather breaks.
Taking proactive steps during the colder months can prevent an expensive springtime surprise. Scheduling a professional inspection before the busy season is the most effective way to ensure early detection and avoid costly structural repairs.
If you suspect termites have moved into your warm home, Reliable Pest Solutions offers the local expertise needed to protect your property.
Their team provides thorough inspections and year-round treatment plans tailored to the specific pest challenges faced by Illinois homeowners.
