If you are a homeowner and believe that you may have termites, you should start by checking the window sills throughout your home. Many do not realize it, but this is one of the first areas where termites are found and one of the main areas where the insects swarm.
While the signs of an infestation may be subtle, it is imperative that you learn them. In doing so, you can quickly identify the problem and take steps to resolve it.
In the process, you may find that you have to purchase and install replacement windows and the associated components, but it is a small price to pay compared to paying for the damage to your home – as a whole.
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Wings Around the Window Sills
Carefully evaluate the window sill and all areas within the area of the sill. Do you see clear wings? Perhaps you see dead insects with wings.
In either instance, it could be that you have a new termite infestation. You should look during the spring. This is when swarming and reproduction begins.
After mating, the termites lose their wings and find wood to bore into so that they may lay their eggs and create a new colony.
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Small Holes on Window Sills
The next sign of a termite infestation is the presence of small holes within the window sill. This indicates the insects have bored into the wood.
Inside of the holes, the insects start chewing the wood and they are the population is increasing quickly. If you see these holes, tap on the sill. It is likely that it will sound hollow.
If you see a bump on the sill, take a small pin and poke it. If you see a powdery substance, it is quite likely that you have an infestation.
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Mud Tubes or Tunnels
If you look at your window sills and you find that they have mud tubes or tunnels on them, it indicates the presence of subterranean termites. These structures actually start outside of your home, make their way through the walls, and then end up on the window sills.
They help termites move from one location to another and they help termites in reaching their food source. These tubes are created by the termites using their feces and their saliva. The presence of mud tubes and/or mud tunnels is a very bad sign.
Contact Us Today
The windows are the first area of the home to warn homeowners of the presence of termites. If you find that there is evidence of these insects, it is imperative that you have a professional pest control technician come to your home immediately and treat it.
This is the only means of eliminating the infestation. Once the infestation is gone, contact us here at Chattahoochee Windows. If your windows were impacted by termites, they will need to be replaced immediately. For more information or to set up an appointment, contact us now by calling: 770-904-9909