How to Tell If Termites Eat Through Vinyl Siding

Termites are insects that are very common in homes, especially in areas with high humidity. They can get through all kinds of siding, including metal and vinyl. However, there are a few signs you can look for to tell if you have an infestation.

The first sign you should look for is the hollow sound when you tap the siding. If you’ve been hearing this sound, then you probably have termites. Termites can enter your home through small holes, or even through the paint.

You’ll also want to look for spiderwebs on your vinyl siding. If you’ve noticed webs, you’ll need to do some maintenance work to prevent them from getting started.

You can also check for signs of rodent damage. These can be rough splintery areas or rough spots on the bottom of siding panels. In addition, rodents are attracted to wood and will gnaw on it to create a nesting area.

Termites can cause major damage to your home. They burrow into the wood and leave mud tubes, or highways, for them to travel. They also leave frass behind.

Depending on the type of termite, you might be able to see termite wings or mud tubes. These can appear on window sills, doors, and other areas around your home.

During warmer weather, carpenter ants will produce winged swarms. They will be visible for thirty minutes before they mate. They will leave the wings behind to establish a new colony.