The weather in Arizona is hot for many months. Because of the heat for so much of the year, many people throughout Arizona await the start of monsoon season each year. The weather in Arizona is hot for many months. Because of the heat for so much of the year, many people throughout Arizona await the start of monsoon season each year. That fresh quenching rain after the baking desert heat is an absolute must in terms of relief for the native plants and animals.

Unfortunately, it is also an invitation for termites. Monsoon season generally begins in mid-June and ends in late September, and during the season and just after it, homeowners need to watch carefully for problem termites.

What is the Weather Connection?

It seems like a pest like termites would be ready to eat year-round, and in some cases, they are. Monsoon season tends to be when termites are the most active, though, because of the moisture and other atmospheric conditions. Many homeowners notice the swarms as the monsoons begin to heat because the same weather patterns that create the rain also seem to trigger the emergence of alates. While each colony is different, the bulk of those will be released in a couple of swarms soon after they emerge.

Preventing Termites

Keeping termites out of your home during monsoon season (or at any other time of the year) can be difficult. They key is to be vigilant. Here are a few tips that can help.

- You can start preventing termite infestation from the time you buy your home. You’ll want to make certain there are no potential infestation sites on your property at all. Stored lumber, firewood, scrap lumber, and even dead trees can all be sources of food for termites, so make certain you don’t keep any of that near your home. If you do keep firewood for a fireplace or wood stove, make certain you elevate it off the ground and keep it well away from the house.

- Screening is essential. All of your attic vents and foundation vents should be covered with bug screens to keep the drywood termites out. Window screens can do the same thing.

- Paint is also important to eliminate the possibility of drywood termites. They won’t come in if you happen to have a solid coat of paint on every surface. Before you paint, though, be sure you’ve sealed up any natural cracks or crevices with wood putty.

Despite your best efforts, certain factors may put your home at risk. If you have wood shingles, live in certain areas, or you have an older home, you could be at greater risk. No matter what your level of risk, though, you may want to work with a Phoenix exterminator to prevent termites on an annual basis. Many offer termite contracts that can certify your home is termite free, giving you not only peace of mind, but also an annual inspection point to make sure it stays that way.