Termites & Their Need For Moisture
Termites & Their Need For Moisture
Termites, especially subterranean and dampwood species, are moisture-loving insects. They rely heavily on humid environments to survive because:
- Soft Exoskeletons: Termites have thin, delicate exoskeletons that make them highly susceptible to desiccation. High humidity prevents them from losing water through evaporation.
- Nest Maintenance: Termite colonies need moisture to build and maintain their nests. Subterranean termites, for example, construct mud tubes to stay connected to the soil and retain the humidity they need to survive.
- Food Digestion: Cellulose, the primary component of wood and the main food source for termites, is challenging to digest. Termites depend on moisture to break it down effectively with the help of gut microbes.
How Humidity Promotes Termite Infestations
High humidity creates ideal conditions for termites to thrive and expand. Here’s how:
- Increased Breeding Rates: High moisture levels in the environment accelerate the reproduction of termites, allowing colonies to grow rapidly.
- Faster Spread: Termites are more active in humid conditions, making it easier for them to forage and find new food sources. Moist wood in damp areas, such as basements, crawl spaces, or outdoor timber, becomes an easy target.
- Weakened Structures: Humidity often weakens wooden structures by causing rot and mould, making them more attractive and accessible to termites.
- Winged Swarms (Alates): Termite swarmers, or alates, often emerge after periods of rain or high humidity. These winged termites are on a mission to establish new colonies, leading to infestations in and around homes.
Seasonal Impact of Humidity on Termites
In Australia, the warmer months often coincide with increased humidity, particularly in tropical and subtropical areas like Brisbane and the Gold Coast. During this time, termite activity peaks:
- Rainy Seasons: Frequent rains raise soil moisture, providing termites with ideal nesting and foraging conditions.
- Hot and Humid Summers: Humidity creates the perfect environment for termites to reproduce, swarm, and expand their colonies.
How to Prevent Termite Infestations in Humid Conditions
Managing humidity is key to keeping termites at bay. Here are some practical steps to protect your property:
Eliminate Moisture Sources
- Fix leaking pipes, taps, and gutters.
- Ensure proper drainage around the foundation of your home.
- Use dehumidifiers in damp areas, like basements or crawl spaces.
Inspect Wooden Structures
- Regularly check for signs of water damage or rot in wooden furniture, walls, and beams.
- Keep firewood and timber stored off the ground and away from the house.
Improve Ventilation
- Ensure good airflow in attics, basements, and crawl spaces.
- Install vents or fans to reduce excess moisture.
Seek Professional Help
- Schedule regular termite inspections with a trusted pest control service.
- Consider termite barriers, like physical or chemical treatments, to prevent infestations.
Conclusion
Humidity is a major contributing factor to termite survival and activity. High moisture levels create the perfect environment for termites to thrive, making it essential to manage humidity levels in and around your home. By taking proactive measures and seeking professional assistance, you can safeguard your property from these destructive pests.
If you’re worried about termites or want expert advice on prevention and treatment, contact Dunrite Termite & Pest Control today. With over 27 years of experience, we’re your local pesties with personality – and we’ll make sure your termite problem is Dunrite!