Termites In Winter: Why They’re Still A Threat & How to Protect Your Home

Think termites take the winter off? Think again. While most of us are reaching for warm jumpers and enjoying the cooler nights, termites aren’t slowing down. Even in winter, our Aussie climate means they stay active (just in sneakier, less obvious ways).

That’s why winter is actually a smart time to think about termite control. We help homeowners spot the signs early and keep termites from causing real damage.

From the surprising places they like to hide to how they get in without you noticing, our friendly experts at Pestline are here with top tips on how to combat termite infestations in winter and protect your property from these damaging critters.

Why Termites Can Still Be a Problem in Winter

Metabolic Slowdown, Not Hibernation

Because termites are cold-blooded, their metabolism slows down as temperatures drop. That means they’re a little less active, but far from gone. Unlike other pests that hibernate, termites keep feeding, especially if they’ve made their way inside your walls or foundation.

Food Supply

Termites feed on cellulose, which is the fibrous part of wood and plants. Inside their guts, special microbes help break down this tough material so termites can get the nutrients they need to survive. Even in winter, they keep eating wood inside your home, slowly digesting the cellulose to fuel their colony.

Survival Strategies

These creepy crawlies are smart and seal off their tunnels to keep out the cold and hold in heat. During winter, worker termites stick close to their nests, focusing on keeping things in good shape rather than searching far for food. Many don’t make it through the cold, and queens slow down on egg-laying to save energy.

But for termites inside your home, winter barely slows them down. The warmth and constant food supply inside let them stay active all year round.

Reduced Visibility

In winter, termite activity becomes quieter, so the usual signs (like mud tubes or wood damage) can be harder to spot. That means infestations might fly under the radar until they’ve been going on for a while. Keeping an eye out, even in the colder months, is key to catching termites early before they cause bigger problems.

Types Of Termites Found In Cold Weather

Termite Type	Description	Where They’re Found
Subterranean Termites	Subterranean termites live underground and need moisture to survive. They travel through mud tubes to reach your home’s wood, quietly causing damage (even if they work a bit sluggish in the cold).	By far the most common and destructive species in Victoria (and across much of Australia).
Drywood Termites	Drywood termites don’t need soil – they live right inside your wood. They can quietly feed on beams, furniture, and floors, especially in warm, dry spots like attics. Unlike subterranean termites, they keep going through winter and can cause damage if you don’t catch them early.	Not common in Victoria or in most of southern Australia. They’re more typical in tropical and subtropical climates, like Queensland or northern New South Wales.

Do Termites Die in Winter?

Not really. Like many common household pests, termites have ways to survive colder months. Subterranean termites dig deeper underground where it’s warmer, staying safely in their nests. Drywood termites live inside the wood in your home and keep feeding all year, no matter the weather.

So even in winter, termites stay active – they don’t simply die off when it gets cold. That’s why termite control is important year-round. If you suspect termites or other common household pests around your home, it’s best to call a professional for an inspection and treatment.

How to Protect Homes From Termite Colonies in Winter?

Using termite-resistant materials during construction or renovations is a smart way to keep them away. These materials make it much harder for termites to get inside and cause damage. For outdoor structures like decks and fences, treated wood is a great choice because it helps prevent termite infestations all year round.

Along with using resistant materials, regular inspections are key. Early detection helps you spot termites before they cause serious damage. Knowing how to detect termites can save you time and money in the long run.

How to Prevent Termites in Winter?

Regular Inspections

One of the best ways to stay ahead of termites is with regular inspections. Focus on the spots they love most, like crawl spaces, subfloors, foundations, and any timber structures around your home. These areas can stay warm and damp, which is exactly what termites look for.

Following a yearly Australian pest management calendar can help you stay on track. It’s a smart way to plan inspections around seasonal pest behaviour. A yearly routine means you’re more likely to catch activity early, before it turns into serious damage.

Professional Treatments

Whether you’re dealing with an active infestation or want to prevent future damage, Pestline offers professional termite treatments tailored to both homes and commercial properties. Our experienced team uses targeted solutions to keep termites out (no matter the season).

Book your domestic or commercial pest services with Pestline today and stay protected year-round.

Monitor for Signs of Termites

Look for things like hollow-sounding wood, blistered or bubbling paint, discarded wings near windowsills, and fine, sawdust-like droppings (also known as frass). You might also spot mud tubes along walls or foundations – these are highways termites build to move safely between their nest and a food source.

You don’t have to be an expert to spot the warning signs. Just taking the time to check around your home, especially in quiet corners like under the house, can help you catch a termite issue before it spreads.

Winter Termite Prevention Tips

Seal Cracks and Gaps

Termites don’t need much to find their way inside. One of the best ways to keep them out this winter is by checking for openings around your foundation, windows, doors, and even where pipes and vents come through. If you spot any, grab a weatherproof sealant and close them up. It’s a simple step that can save you a whole lot of trouble later.

Remove Moisture

Termites love moisture, and in winter, homes can get damp fast – especially in basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms. Fix any leaks in your plumbing, roof, or windows as soon as you spot them, and make sure those stuffy spots like attics and under the house are well ventilated.

Got a particularly damp area? A dehumidifier can make a big difference. And if your home’s prone to flooding or heavy moisture, a sump pump might be worth considering. The drier you keep it, the less appealing it is to termites.

Remove Wood Contact

When wood touches the soil around your home, it’s like rolling out the welcome mat for termites. Things like timber decks, fences, or firewood stacked up too close to your house can give them a direct path in.

Try to keep wood off the ground and away from your foundation. Using raised decks or building on a stone base can make a big difference in keeping termites out.

Keep Your Home Safe from Termite Infestations in Winter

Protecting your home from termites is a year-round job, but with the right knowledge and a little care, it’s completely manageable. By staying alert for the signs, using termite-resistant materials, and scheduling regular inspections, you’re giving your home the best chance to stay safe and sound.

If you’ve noticed anything unusual or just want some peace of mind, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team.

And if you’re based in Melbourne or down on the Mornington Peninsula, Pestline’s just around the corner if you need a hand. We know the local conditions and we’re always happy to help.