Termites are a year-round concern in Louisiana, thanks to our city’s warm, humid climate and abundant rainfall. Both Formosan and subterranean termites thrive in these conditions, making proactive termite prevention crucial for homeowners. The best way to protect your property is to stay vigilant each month, focusing on tasks that reduce moisture and limit termite access. Below is a month-by-month guide to termite control in Baton Rouge.
January: Start With a Property Check
The winter season in Baton Rouge can involve rain, freezing rain, and sleeting. Clearing out leaves and debris from your gutters and downspouts prevents water from pooling near your foundation, which can be an open invitation for termites. Also be sure to trim back overgrown shrubs and tree branches touching your house, as these can create pathways for pests.
February: Prepare for Swarm Season
February is a busy month for termites. Termite swarms typically occur in early spring, so you’ll want to schedule an appointment with a termite control professional now to catch any budding infestations before swarmers take flight. It’s a good idea to also monitor moisture levels in crawl spaces and basements and repair leaks. Any type of moisture can supply enough water for termite colonies to thrive.
March: Be on the Lookout for Swarmers
As temperatures rise, swarmers may appear around windows and doors, especially on warmer days after rain. Call a pro immediately if you see discarded wings or a number of winged insects. With spring in the air, now is also a good time to check your yard for fallen branches, old lumber, or tree stumps. Termites feed on cellulose, so eliminating these food sources reduces the chances of attracting a colony.
April: Reinforce Barriers and Keep It Dry
During the month of April, more homeowners start working in their yards. Ensure soil or landscaping materials don’t touch siding or wood components on your home. This direct contact can be a superhighway for subterranean termites. If your home has a crawl space, a vapor barrier can help keep moisture levels down, making the area less hospitable for termites. April is also a good time to install termite bait systems around your property to prevent colony formations.
May: Peak Swarm Monitoring
The month of May is when you’ll want to stay vigilant for swarmers. Keep an eye on windowsills, door frames, and light fixtures where termites are drawn to warmth and light. Prompt action at the first sign of swarmers can save thousands in potential damage. Other steps to take during the month of May include sealing off entry points, repairing torn screens, and keeping your lawn neatly trimmed.
June-July: Manage Mid-Summer Humidity
As you know, Baton Rouge summers are hot and humid. Keep crawl space vents clear of obstructions and ensure attics have proper ventilation to help reduce moisture buildup. Check outdoor faucets and hoses, as even a small leak can create damp soil near your foundation. If you have wooden fences, decks, or planters that touch the ground, ensure they’re constructed with treated wood and maintain a buffer zone around them.
August-September: Late Summer Scans
Late summer is a good time for a mid-year check, especially if you didn’t schedule one in spring. Catching termite activity now can halt damage before it worsens. Inspect areas under your home for cardboard boxes, paper, or excess wood. Store these items off the ground or in plastic containers—remember, termites thrive on cellulose.
October-November: Prepping for Cooler Temperatures
Fallen leaves can accumulate against your home’s foundation, trapping moisture. Rake regularly and move leaf piles away from the exterior walls. The summer heat may have also dried out the seals around your doors and windows, so check and replace them if needed. Moreover, ensure that gutters and downspouts are diverting water away from your house.
December: Wrap Up with Final Checks
December in Baton Rouge may still see mild temperatures. A thorough inspection of attics and subfloor areas can spot any late-year termite activity. If you use firewood, stack it at least 20 feet from your home and off the ground. Termites love the easy access to damp, decaying wood. And, perhaps most importantly, stay proactive. Put a reminder on your calendar to schedule a professional termite inspection for early spring—before swarm season starts anew.
Year-Round Termite Control in Baton Rouge
Termite prevention isn’t a one-time project, especially in Baton Rouge where the climate caters to these silent destroyers. By following this month-by-month guide, you’ll minimize the risk of infestations and help ensure any termite activity is caught early.
Still unsure? The licensed termite control professionals from Arceneaux Pest Management Service have the expertise and tools to implement long-term preventative measures and treat existing problems. Schedule a termite inspection at 225-791-9911.