What This Blog Covers
- Why subterranean termites remain active during the holiday season
- Seasonal habits that can support termite activity (and what doesn’t)
- Holiday tasks that don’t raise termite risks
- Why winter is a smart time to schedule a termite inspection
- How Marathon Pest Control protects Texas homes all year
Why Subterranean Termites Stay Active in Winter
In places with true freezing winters, termite activity slows down. But in The Woodlands and surrounding communities, the soil rarely gets cold enough to stop them.
Underground moisture, warm soil layers, and heated homes mean termites keep foraging, even in December. Your home provides everything they want: moisture, shelter, warmth, and plenty of food.
Seasonal Habits That Can Support Subterranean Termites (and What Actually Doesn’t)
Let’s clear this up first: termites don’t care about your Christmas lights, fresh trees, wreaths, or tinsel.
But certain seasonal habits can accidentally create termite-friendly conditions.
1. Firewood Stacked Too Close to the House
Cooler evenings in Southeast Texas mean more firewood stacks, and damp wood is a termite magnet. When firewood is stacked directly against the home, termites can move from the pile into the structure.
How to fix: Store firewood several feet from the house and off the soil.
2. Moisture Issues
Hanging exterior lights or putting up inflatables often draws attention to gutters, downspouts, and rooflines, areas where moisture problems hide.
Clogged gutters or slow-draining areas around the foundation create ideal conditions for termites to thrive.
How to fix: Clear gutters, extend downspouts, and fix leaks before decorating.
3. Disturbed Mulch or Soil Against the Home
When adding holiday decorations, new mulch, or ground stakes, homeowners may disturb soil directly against the foundation, where termites are already active.
How to fix: Keep mulch low and a few inches away from the house and any wood elements.
4. Cardboard Boxes Stored in Damp Garages or Sheds
Subterranean termites won’t specifically seek out cardboard, but if boxes are placed on damp concrete or near soil, termites can tunnel inside while foraging.
How to fix: Store belongings in plastic totes on shelves, keeping them away from moisture.
Holiday Tasks That Don’t Increase Termite Risk
You can enjoy these traditions worry-free:
- Fresh Christmas trees or wreaths
- Holiday string lights
- Indoor decorations and ornaments
- Wrapping paper, bows, and garland
These items do not attract subterranean termites and are not conducive to infestations.
Signs of Termite Activity to Watch for This Season
While you’re decorating, it’s a good idea to stay alert for anything that feels off around your home. A few subtle clues can pop up during the holidays, such as:
- Thin mud tubes on foundation areas
- Wood that feels softer than expected
- Patches of paint or drywall that look bubbled or uneven
These are just a few of the early indicators. For a full breakdown of what to look for, check out our detailed guide on the signs of a termite problem.
If you spot anything concerning, it’s best not to wait until after the new year to address it.
Why Winter Is a Smart Time for a Termite Inspection
Most homeowners think termite trouble peaks in spring, so winter is often overlooked, but in warmer climates, termites never actually stop. A December inspection can:
- Catch hidden termite activity before costly repairs develop
- Protect your home before spring swarmers appear
- Identify moisture conditions caused by winter weather
- Give you peace of mind during the busy holiday season
For more information on winter termite activity, please visit our post, Why Winter Termite Control Is Essential for The Woodlands Homes
How Marathon Pest Control Protects Your Home All Year
Marathon Pest Control provides professional termite control services throughout The Woodlands, Magnolia, and our surrounding Texas service area. Our termite services include:
- A comprehensive termite inspection
- Proven termite control featuring termite baiting
- A renewable and transferable termite re-treatment warranty
Termite Inspection
When you reach out for termite protection, we begin with a few quick questions and provide a free termite control quote.
At your appointment, we perform a thorough inspection to:
- Confirm the presence of termites
- Assess existing damage
- Identify conditions that attract termites
We’ll review everything with you, explain the treatment process, and get to work protecting your home.
Proven Termite Control
To eliminate active infestations and prevent future colonies, Marathon Pest Control installs a science-backed, eco-friendly termite baiting solution placed around your home’s perimeter.
These baiting stations:
- Intercept termites as they forage
- Deliver bait that is shared throughout the colony
- Lead to total colony elimination, including the queen
Marathon’s Termite Re-Treatment Warranty
We stand behind our work. When you choose termite protection with Marathon Pest Control, you receive a renewable and transferable termite re-treatment warranty—just schedule your annual inspection to keep it active.
When you’re focused on family, celebrations, and relaxing through the holiday season, we make sure termites aren’t quietly unwrapping the structure of your home.
Keep Termites Off Your Holiday Guest List
Termites don’t take a holiday, but with Marathon Pest Control, they won’t take over your home either. Schedule a termite inspection today and enjoy a season full of peace, comfort, and confidence.
