Carpenter ants are some of the most destructive insects that can invade your home. They are often confused with termites but have some distinct differences that set them apart from their fellow wood-destroying friends. Keeping carpenter ants out of your home is a goal all homeowners should strive for. A-Tex Pest Management is here to share some carpenter ant prevention and control tips to keep carpenter ants out of your home.
What Do Carpenter Ants Look Like?
Carpenter ants are the largest ant species in North America and their color ranges from red and brown to black. They are usually somewhere between 1/8 inch to ½ inch long. They can bite humans, but if left alone, rarely do. Their bite isn’t dangerous to humans and rarely cause any symptoms at all.
Dangers of Carpenter Ant Infestations; Property Damage
Even though carpenter ants don’t pose a threat to humans with their bite, they pose other threats like property damage. They don’t eat wood like termites, but they hollow out wood that is soft from water damage to building their large nests. The longer carpenter ants are left in a structure, the more damage they will cause. It is important to solve your carpenter ant problem as soon as possible to avoid expensive property damage.
Signs of Carpenter Ants
If your carpenter ant infestation is large enough, you may be able to hear them working away within the walls of your home. It will make a subtle rustling sound. This only happens when an infestation has gotten out of control and the damage is extensive. Other signs include small holes in wood with a small pile of sawdust at the opening. Of course, the largest signs of carpenter ants will be seeing the ants themselves. They usually travel in a trail and are easy to spot.
Carpenter Ant Prevention
Here are some tips to prevent carpenter ant infestation:
1. Store Food Properly– Carpenter ants don’t eat wood, but they do eat a lot of the foods you do. Storing food in airtight containers is key in keeping carpenter ants away.
2. Trim Trees & Shrubs– Trees and shrubs shouldn’t be touching your home. Keep them trimmed at least 15 inches away from your home to keep carpenter ants from climbing onto your home from a tree or shrub.
3. Fix Moisture Problems– Carpenter ants are usually drawn to wood that has been damaged by water. It is softer and easier to hollow out and build their nest within it. If you have a leaking pipe, fix it as soon as possible.
4. Seal Openings– If you have any rips or tears in screens, or cracks on your foundation, repair them to keep carpenter ants from gaining entry into your home.
Carpenter Ant Inspection & Control in Austin, Round Rock, Leander, Pflugerville & Cedar Park, Texas
Controlling carpenter ants on your own is incredibly difficult. You need the help of a professional pest control company like A-Tex Pest Management to completely eradicate your carpenter ant problem. We have trained technicians that have the tools needed to keep your home carpenter ant-free. Call us today!