How to Protect Your Arkansas Home from Termites This Spring

Why Spring is Termite Season in Arkansas 

Spring marks the beginning of termite swarming season in Arkansas, particularly for subterranean termites, which are common throughout the region. Warmer temperatures and increased humidity trigger mature colonies to send out swarmer termites – winged adults looking to form new colonies. Unfortunately, that often means they’re searching near or inside your home. 

The swarming season typically starts in March or April and can continue through early summer, depending on local weather conditions. This makes spring the most important time to prepare your home for a potential termite infestation. 

 

Signs of a Termite Infestation

Spotting termites early is critical for reducing damage. Here are the most common signs of termite activity in Arkansas homes: 

• Discarded wings near windows, doors, or light fixtures
• Mud tubes along foundation walls or crawl spaces
• Hollow-sounding wood when tapped
• Buckling floors or bubbling paint 
• Piles of termite droppings (called frass) 

 

If you notice any of these symptoms, you may already have an active infestation. Even if you don’t see these signs, annual inspections are essential because termites often work quietly behind walls and under flooring. 

 

How Termites Damage Your Home 

Termites feed on cellulose, the main component in wood and other plant-based materials. Once inside your home, they can chew through wooden beams, flooring, walls, and even furniture. In many cases, the damage remains hidden until it becomes severe – costing homeowners thousands of dollars in repairs. 

In Arkansas, subterranean termites are particularly aggressive and build massive underground colonies. They create mud tubes to travel from the soil to your home’s structure, feeding nonstop 24/7. 

 

Termite Prevention Starts Outside 

To protect your home, start with the exterior. Most termite infestations originate from the soil outside your home. Proper landscaping and moisture control can significantly reduce your risk. 

 

Moisture Management 

Termites thrive in damp environments. Eliminate sources of moisture by: 

• Fixing leaky faucets, spigots, and gutters
• Ensuring downspouts and drainage systems direct water away from your home
• Using vapor barriers in crawl spaces 
• Keeping sprinkler systems from hitting your home’s foundation 

 

Landscape Smartly 

Avoid landscaping mistakes that invite termites close to your home: 

• Keep wood mulch at least 12 inches away from the foundation 
• Store firewood and lumber at least 20 feet away from the house 
• Trim shrubs and trees so they don’t touch your siding or roofline 

 

Termite-Proofing Your Home’s Structure

Protecting your home also means sealing off access points and eliminating food sources inside. 

 

Seal Entry Points

Regularly inspect and repair cracks in: 

• Foundation walls 
• Window sills 
• Door frames 
• Utility lines and plumbing penetrations 

Use caulk or sealant to close gaps and prevent termites from sneaking inside. 

 

Avoid Wood-to-Ground Contact 

This is one of the biggest risk factors for termite infestations. Ensure decks, steps, fences, and support beams are built with termite-resistant materials or installed on concrete bases – not directly in the soil. 

 

Professional Termite Treatments and Prevention Plans 

DIY termite solutions may offer short-term relief, but professional pest control is the most effective way to eliminate and prevent termite infestations. Here’s what a termite treatment plan typically involves: 

 

Inspection 

A certified pest control technician will inspect your home for signs of termite activity, vulnerable entry points, and moisture issues. 

 

Treatment Options 

• Liquid termiticides create a protective barrier in the soil around your home 

• Bait stations are strategically placed to attract and eliminate termite colonies 
• Foam treatments can be used in wall voids or hard-to-reach areas 

Many professional pest control companies also offer preventive plans, which include regular inspections and treatments to keep your home protected year-round. 

 

The Importance of Annual Termite Inspections 

Even if your home hasn’t shown signs of termites, you should still schedule an annual termite inspection. Early detection is key to preventing costly damage, and inspections can identify risk factors like moisture buildup or structural vulnerabilities. 

Homeowners in areas like Little Rock, Fayetteville, Hot Springs, and Fort Smith are especially encouraged to get inspected annually, as these regions are considered termite hotspots in Arkansas. 

 

FAQs About Termite Protection 

When is the best time to get a termite inspection in Arkansas?

The best time is in early spring – before or during swarm season – but inspections can be done any time of the year. 

 

Are termites covered by homeowner’s insurance?

No. Most policies do not cover termite damage, which is why prevention is so important. 

 

What is the average cost of termite damage repairs?

Repairs can range from $3,000 to $8,000 or more, depending on the extent of the infestation and structural damage. 

 

Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late – Protect Your Home Today

Termites are more than just a spring nuisance – they are a serious threat to your home’s safety and value. By taking action early, you can significantly reduce your risk of infestation. From sealing entry points and managing moisture to scheduling annual inspections and using professional treatments, protecting your Arkansas home from termites is an investment that pays off. 

Need expert help? West Termites & Pest provides professional termite control, pest management, and lawn care services across Arkansas and Oklahoma. Our licensed technicians understand the local conditions and use the latest tools and treatments to keep your home protected. We offer free consultations to assess your property and recommend the best course of action. Don’t wait for damage to happen – contact West Termites & Pest today and keep termites out for good.