What to Do About Termites in Window Sill
Few things strike terror in the hearts of homeowners like the word “termites.” These pests do most of their dirty work out of plain sight, so you don’t know they’re a problem until they’ve done a lot of damage. All the wood in your home is fair game, including window sills. It’s easy to spot evidence of termites in window sills, making it easier to identify the problem as quickly as possible. CHC Home Inspection can help you discover termites in your home—including at your window sills—and guide you toward help so that you can prevent them from returning.
Signs of Termites in Window Sills
You can’t fight back against termites if you don’t know you have them. Fortunately, these pests leave a few calling cards to let you know they’re at your home. If you notice any of the following signs on your home’s window sills, call us to schedule a termite inspection:
Small piles of what looks like dirt or sawdust
You may find discarded wings on the sill. This may indicate that termites are nearby and capable of starting a new colony near your window sills.
Termites (live or dead) on the window sill
The surface of your window sill may swell. This may be because when termite damage is under the surface, it allows moisture to enter between the finish and the sill.
If you see any of these signs, we recommend that you get in contact with a member of our team to schedule a termite inspection. If we see signs of termites in your home, we’ll make recommendations for remediation.
Getting Rid of Termites
You can eliminate termites in your window sill on your own if the infestation is still in its initial stages. Termidor foam is one of the most cost-effective and economical ways to send termites packing. When pests come in contact with the foam, they carry it back to the colony, which creates a domino effect of extermination.
You can also mix Borax powder with boiling water until it’s a thick consistency and then spread it on the window sill. Allow it to dry thoroughly, and then repeat twice to ensure it has eliminated all termites.
If you’re unsure of the magnitude of the presence of termites or can’t seem to get rid of them by using these methods, it’s time to call in a professional exterminator.
Preventing Termites
It’s not the actual window sills that attract pests—damp areas or cracks practically invite termites to enter. Avoid putting moist paper or wood on or near the window sill, and fix any damages as quickly as possible. Using a dehumidifier in your home during the summer is also a good idea, as moisture is a big draw for termites. Another way to help keep termites and other invasive pests away is to keep any piles of wood or mulch away from the foundation of your house.
Contact Us
Even if you don’t see signs of termite activity, it’s a good idea to have regular home inspections to stop problems before they start. We offer a broad range of inspection services to ensure your property is in tip-top shape. Contact us today to schedule an inspection. We are located in Lexington, KY, and proudly serve Central Kentucky, including Lexington, Louisville, Liberty, Somerset, Georgetown, and Nicholasville, KY.
