Carpenter ants are black or red and black ants between 1/8” to 1/2” inch and queens up to 1” long. They are polymorphic which means they vary in size. You will commonly find these in areas where there is moist or damp wood such as window and door frames, sill plates, roofs, kitchens, bathrooms, and foam insulation. These can cause structural damage over time if left untreated.
Can Carpenter Ants Harm Me?
Carpenter ants do not sting and have not been known to cause any human disease. However, they do have large mouth parts and have been known to pinch or break the skin. They also can release formic acid which can enhance the pain.
Do Carpenter Ants Cause Damage?
Carpenter ants have been known to be associated with structural damage. They chew and excavate wood and structures to make cavities (galleries) for their nesting colony. They have been found in new and old timber, hollow core doors, foam insulation, furniture etc.
However, they do not eat wood! Over time, carpenter ants can cause significant damage if a colony becomes established and left untreated. Usually a nest in a home or building is a “Satellite” colony and the main colony is outside in a tree, tree stump or a rotten structure.
What Can I Do?
Look to reduce moisture issues in your home or building making the environment undesirable that will help prevent these pests from establishing. Make sure moisture or rain is sloping away from your home or building. Identifying any old infested trees, stumps, old timbers, etc. and remove them. Repair roof leaks, inspect for and repair any leaking plumbing that may be contributing to moisture issues.
In addition, trimming foliage and branches away from your structure will help reduce moisture issues and prevent ants from getting on the building. However, once these get in and established in a structure it is time to call a professional. Contact us today for professional assistance and peace of mind.
Why Contact Terminator Pest Control?
Once we properly identify the ant species, we will inspect your home or building for structural and sanitation conditions that may contribute to a carpenter ant infestation. Terminator Pest Control will thoroughly inspect to identify for insect frass (wood shavings and insect parts), behaviors and patterns that will give us an understanding of where the carpenter ant nest is residing. We will strive to make low environmental impact and strategic applications specifically designed for carpenter ant control. We will make recommendations on what you can do to prevent further infestations.
Get Rid of Carpenter Ants today!
Other Pests We Eliminate
Get Started Today
Don’t wait for it to take over. Learn more about us and our services. Our expert technicians provide fast, reliable solutions to keep your home and family protected. Schedule your service now and enjoy a pest-free environment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are carpenter ants a concern for properties?
They can cause structural damage by tunneling through wood to build their nests. Over time, this can weaken wood in areas like walls, window frames, and support structures if left untreated.
Where are carpenter ants typically found?
They are commonly found in moist or damaged wood. This includes areas like kitchens, bathrooms, roofs, window frames, and insulation where moisture is present.
What are the signs of a carpenter ant infestation?
Signs include seeing large indoors, small piles of sawdust-like material called frass, rustling sounds inside walls, and damaged wood structures.
How does Terminator Pest Control treat carpenter ants?
We locate nesting sites and apply targeted treatments to eliminate the colony at its source. Our approach also includes identifying moisture issues and entry points to help prevent future infestations.
Can carpenter ants be prevented from returning?
Yes, prevention includes reducing moisture, repairing damaged wood, sealing entry points, and scheduling routine pest control services to monitor and protect your property.