July 2021 saw record rainfall throughout southern Arizona. Tucson officially received 8.06 inches of rain in July while many of the surrounding areas like Marana, Oro Valley, Vail and Green Valley saw even more. In contrast, the area typically averages only 5.33 inches in the entire first seven months of the year! The rain is a much-needed resource for our parched desert, but it also means that subterranean termites will be very active in the months ahead.

Ideal termite weather

Termites thrive in warm, moist conditions and the period after the summer monsoons in southern Arizona are the ideal time for termites. Subterranean termites live in the soil and need the moisture underground to survive. Furthermore, when the soil is extremely saturated new queens begin to swarm and start new colonies. These new colonies begin growing quickly and the workers search far and wide for the resources needed to sustain the ever-growing population.

Signs of termites

Subterranean termites leave a distinct calling-card everywhere they go – a mud tunnel. When they show up on the side of your foundation or on a living room wall, it’s a clear giveaway that termites have invaded. In most cases, these tunnels are only about the width of a pencil as the workers are foraging for food. However, once the scouts find a viable food source and call in the calvary, they expand the tunnels into super-highways to accommodate the increased traffic. Another sign of termite activity is just small pinholes in the drywall on the interior of the home that can be more difficult to identify by the untrained eye.

Annual inspections

In southern Arizona, it’s not a matter of if you’ll get termites, but when you’ll get them. The best way to protect your home or business is to have a termite inspection performed on an annual basis by a licensed termite professional. A quality inspection can identify the presence of termites early and stop an infestation before it becomes a significant issue.

The licensed professionals at Bill’s Home Service have been inspecting homes and businesses for termites in the Green Valley and Tucson area for more than 55 years. They have the knowledge and experience to identify a termite infestation and form a comprehensive termite plan to protect your investment. Call on our pros today at (520) 625-2381.