Homeowners in the Midwest know that feeling all too well. Just as the snow melts and warmer weather arrives, those unwanted guests start to move in on your property. During the spring and summer months, termite activity massively increases in states including Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Wisconsin, and the surrounding states, transforming what is supposed to be the best time of year for property owners into their worst nightmare.
That extra moisture from spring rains, coupled with warmer temperatures, forms the perfect recipe for these pests to colonize and wreak thousands of dollars’ worth of structural damage. Termites will find their food, whether in older Chicago neighborhoods or rural Iowa farmhouses. Your next move should be to speak to a licensed pest control specialist from Reliable Pest Solutions if you suspect termites are on your property.
What Attracts Termites in the Midwest During Peak Springs and Summers?
Midwestern climate conditions provide an excellent breeding ground for termite activity in warmer months. Spring has more soil moisture due to melt from snow and seasonal rains, which the subterranean termites rely on to make it through another year. These pests need moisture of around 75-95% humidity to flourish, which is why the wet conditions after Midwest winters are absolutely ideal for their reproduction cycles.
It makes sense because temperature in itself is another critical factor influencing termite behavior patterns. When soil temperatures are a constant 70 degrees or above, typically between late April and early May for most of the region, the flights of the termite swarmers will begin.
Potential Risks Termites Carry
1. Structural Damage to Your Property
Midwest homes, especially those constructed of conventional wood framing, which is typically found throughout the region, face severe threats from termites. These silent destroyers eat through the inside of wooden support beams, floor joists, and wall studs, rendering structures dangerously weak. According to the National Pest Management Association, over $5 billion worth of property damage is caused by termites each year in the United States alone, nearly 15 % of which occurs in Midwest states.
2. Financial Consequences
The financial strain goes far beyond initial repair costs. Homeowners in the Midwest pay anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000 for termite damage, while a full-blown infestation could cost over $15,000 to remedy. Termite damage is usually seen as one of those preventative maintenance issues that are not covered by your insurance, such as sudden disasters.
How Can You Protect Your Home From Termites?
- Control moisture around your foundation – Water should flow away from the outside perimeter of the home, and any plumbing leaks should be repaired immediately, as excess humidity draws termites to the house.
- Basements and crawl spaces – Look for mud tubes, shed wings, or wood that sounds hollow, particularly along the sides of your home where utilities enter.
- Have good ventilation – Provide proper ventilation in basements and crawl spaces to lower humidity levels necessary for the survival of termites.
- Yearly expert inspections – Yearly termite inspections should always be done by licensed professionals who know the types of termites common to the Midwest and when they invade the house
- Deal with landscaping issues – If shrubs or trees overgrow and are getting too close to your exterior, trim back or prune them, and ensure gutters drain properly to keep stormwater from pooling near foundations
Do Not Wait Until The Damage Becomes Irreversible!
The longer you delay seeking professional help, the more expensive and complicated it will be to resolve. Reliable Pest Solutions knows that for Midwest homeowners, the peak of termite season presents unique challenges. Its certified techs are trained in termite species native to the area and create treatment plans that target these pests for immediate action and future resistance. They employ advanced detection methods and tested treatment protocols developed for the Midwest climate and soil types. Instead of waiting until apparent damage is present, a thorough inspection can prevent thousands and ensure your home remains standing for many years.