Introduction
Formosan termites are a constant concern for homeowners on the Texas Gulf Coast. Homes across Houston and nearby cities sit in the middle of one of the most active termite zones in the country, and these pests do not take a break. The mix of year-round humidity, mild winters, and common building materials like wood siding and crawlspace foundations put homes at risk, even in February.
Unlike other insects that slow down during colder months, Formosan termites in Houston stay busy. That makes early detection tricky. By the time they are noticed, they have often already done damage behind walls or under floors.
What Makes Formosan Termites a Year-Round Problem
Mild winters across our region mean the soil rarely gets cold enough to slow down termite activity. The ground stays warm, homes stay damp, and colonies never hibernate. Even in winter, the inside of a home offers termite colonies the same benefits as spring. Heating systems, warm water lines, and constant indoor activity create an inviting environment.
• Termites are drawn to humidity and warmth, both of which are common inside Houston homes in winter
• Inside insulation and wall voids often keep conditions just right for nests to grow undisturbed
• Damage can continue through the colder months because homeowners do not expect it, leading to missed warning signs
• According to Killum Pest Control, Inc., Formosan termites are a major focus of our termite control service, and we use advanced baiting and monitoring systems to target them early
Many people think spring is when termite trouble begins, but by that point, the real work has already started. That is what makes these pests hard to spot early.
How Formosan Termites Get Into Homes
These termites start from the soil and work their way in. That means most entry points are hidden. Cracks in the foundation, expansion joints along concrete slabs, or gaps around utility pipes are common ways in. Even a small weakness in a porch or garage slab can give a colony the access it needs.
• Soil that contacts wood or siding gives termites a direct line to the home
• Plumbing lines and HVAC chases can have hidden gaps termites use to tunnel in
• Nests often start near the base of exterior walls, especially in shaded, damp areas
Routine checks might not be enough to spot the early stages. Damage under porches or inside wall voids might only show up months after termites have made themselves at home. Many people do not realize anything is wrong until a visible sign appears indoors, like warping floors or stuck windows.
Signs They Are Already Inside
The tricky part about Formosan termites is how long they can hide. They work quietly behind baseboards and inside wall panels. By the time signs pop up, they have likely been active for a while.
Here is what we usually look for:
• Mud tubes on the side of the foundation or lower walls, which are used for moving from soil to wood
• Frass, which looks like fine sawdust or sand, near cracks, vents, or floor joints
• Wood that sounds hollow when tapped or has blistered paint
• Spring swarms starting as early as late February, especially near windows or outdoors
Swarming termites often show up earlier than expected in Houston. Warmer pockets of air in February can kick off early spring behavior. Seeing winged termites indoors is usually a sign of a mature colony close by.
Why Houston Homes Are at Higher Risk
Certain things about how homes are built in our area make termite control hard. Many older neighborhoods rely on crawlspace foundations, which keep dark, damp pockets under floors. Areas with older pipes or siding that has not been replaced are especially vulnerable.
We see heavy pressure in places like Pearland, Friendswood, League City, and older parts of Houston, where trees and fencing sit close to the house. What seems like minor ground contact or a simple garden bed can become a bridge for termites.
• Outdoor wood, such as deck posts and fences, should stay clear of the soil and siding
• Old mulch along foundations holds moisture that encourages nesting
• Cracks along sidewalks or patio edges may give colonies an entryway near walls
• Our termite inspections at Killum Pest Control, Inc. include a full review of all exterior entry points to help homeowners reduce risks before swarming season
With so much greenery and wet ground across the Gulf Coast, it is easy to accidentally create the perfect space for a termite colony to thrive.
What Homeowners Can Do Before Peak Season
Late winter is a good window for catching termite activity before it spreads indoors. You might not see termites right away, but there are habits worth building now. Small environmental issues can turn into bigger pest problems when left unaddressed.
• Walk around the outside of your home and check for standing water, soft siding, or areas where soil touches wood
• Make sure visible cracks along the foundation are sealed tight
• Look under sinks, near water heaters, and near baseboards for any signs of moisture. Termites love damp spots
Cutting off access is the first step. Fix leaks quickly. Remove old wood or mulch in contact with the home. Watch for tight doors or loose window frames, which might mean hidden damage.
Getting ahead of spring is much easier than trying to control active colonies later in the season.
Staying Ahead of a Costly Pest
The biggest risk with Formosan termites in Houston is assuming they are only active part of the year. In reality, our winter makes little difference to their colony cycles. Even when it is cold outside, they are still finding their way indoors and feeding behind the scenes.
We always recommend seasonal checks for any home in this region, including newer builds. Just because everything looks fine does not mean termites have not already started silently eating through expensive materials.
Catching signs early saves time, money, and stress. With warmer days right around the corner, now is a smart time to pay attention before swarms and damage get worse. Even a quick walk around your property could catch something you missed last year.
Don’t let your Houston home become a victim of silent invaders. With year-round activity, Formosan termites in Houston can pose a significant threat even in the colder months. Killum Pest Control, Inc. offers expert inspections and tailored solutions to safeguard your property from these persistent pests. Contact us today to schedule an inspection and take proactive steps towards a termite-free home.