Late summer in Austin may feel like the end of termite season, but don’t let the calendar fool you. Termite activity in August is still a serious concern for homeowners.
Swarming may slow down, but termites are still active. Termites work year-round, and hot, humid Texas summers give them everything they need to thrive, especially in crawl spaces and basements.
Wondering if termites are a concern this time of year? You’re in the right place.
Key Takeaways
- Termites remain active in August, especially subterranean termites that feed and tunnel unseen.
- Look for signs of termite activity like mud tubes, swarmers, and damaged wood around your home’s foundation.
- Regular termite inspections help catch problems early before costly damage occurs.
- Absolute Pest Management provides local termite control that targets the species common to Central Texas.
Termite Season Doesn’t End With Summer
While many associate termite swarms with spring, termite season in Austin continues well into the summer months. August is still an active month, particularly for subterranean termites, which live underground and keep feeding on wooden structures year-round. They prefer moist soil, shaded areas, and easy access to food sources like untreated lumber, tree roots, or wood-to-ground contact.
Even though winged termites, also called swarmers or alates, are more common in spring, smaller secondary swarms can appear later in summer, especially during warm, muggy evenings after rainfall. If you see flying ants around your porch light, look closely: they might be termites.
Common Signs of Termite Activity in August
By late summer, especially after the swarming season, termite infestations may already be well-established. Early detection matters. Here’s what to watch for:
1. Mud Tubes
Subterranean termites build mud tubes to travel between their nest and food sources. These pencil-thin tunnels are often found near exterior walls, crawl space vents, or your home’s foundation. If you break one open and see live termites inside, that’s a sign of active infestation.
2. Discarded Wings
Even late in the season, swarming termites may shed their wings around window sills, doorways, or light fixtures. These wings are typically all the same size, unlike flying ants, which have differently sized pairs.
3. Hollow or Damaged Wood
Tap exposed wood with a screwdriver. If it sounds hollow or crumbles easily, termites may have tunneled through it. Check for signs of termite damage in wooden structures like deck posts, beams, or joists, especially in areas with moisture.
4. Frass or Termite Droppings
Drywood termites, though less common in our area than subterranean types, can leave behind tiny pellet-like termite droppings known as frass. These usually collect beneath baseboards, attic beams, or near infested furniture.
Where to Check for Signs of Termites
In Austin homes, termites commonly target areas with wood-to-soil contact or poor ventilation. Make sure to check:
- Crawl spaces and basements
- Around the home’s foundation
- Inside attics
- Behind walls and near entry points like utility pipes or foundation cracks
- Around landscape mulch, woodpiles, or tree stumps
What Makes August a Risky Time?
Hot, damp weather speeds up termite feeding and colony growth. Termite colonies often continue expanding into late summer and beyond. If unnoticed, a single queen can support new colonies nearby, turning a minor problem into a widespread termite infestation.
Even without visible swarms, termites can cause severe structural damage.
Why Early Detection Matters
The longer termites go unnoticed, the more extensive and expensive the damage becomes. Regular inspections give you a better chance of catching problems early. At Absolute Pest Management, we often find signs that homeowners missed, especially in hard-to-reach places.
What to Do if You Suspect a Termite Problem
If you’ve seen any warning signs of termites, or even if you’re just unsure, now is the time for a professional termite inspection.
Our team of Austin-based exterminators understands how different termite species behave in our region. We’ll inspect your home for active signs, check known hotspots, and design a plan for termite control and prevention tailored to your property.
Our Approach to Termite Control Includes:
- Inspection of current termite colonies
- Identification of high-risk entry points
- Evaluation of moisture conditions and food sources
- Application of long-term termite treatments
- Guidance on preventive measures to protect your home year-round
Stay Alert in Late Summer
Just because the swarm isn’t obvious doesn’t mean termites are gone. Termite activity in August is still intense in Central Texas, and knowing the signs of termite infestation can save you thousands in repairs. Stay vigilant, inspect often, and if you’re unsure, have a professional inspect your home.
At Absolute Pest Management, we’ve helped homeowners across Austin keep their homes termite-free. Just call us and we can give you a free quotation. Whether it’s your first inspection or you’re dealing with an active problem, we’re here to help you take the right next step.
FAQs
How do I know if I have termites or ants?
Termites have straight antennae and equal-length wings, while ants have bent antennae and uneven wings. If you’re unsure, schedule a professional inspection to confirm.
Do termites die off in the summer heat?
No. Heat and humidity help termites thrive, especially subterranean species that nest in moist soil.
Can I treat termites on my own?
DIY methods rarely eliminate the entire colony. Professional treatment is recommended to remove termites and prevent re-infestation entirely.
