How to Identify a Carpenter Ant Infestation?
Carpenter ants are notorious for the damage they do to homes across Canada and all of North America! These relentless creatures can cause significant damage to wooden structures within your home if left unchecked. Identifying a carpenter ant infestation early on is crucial to prevent further damage and protect your home. Read on to learn about how to identify carpenter ants, look for signs of infestation, and effective methods of removal and prevention.
What are carpenter ants?
Carpenter ants are large ants known for their ability to excavate wood to create nesting galleries. They typically prefer damp or decaying wood, making them more likely to infest areas prone to moisture.
What types of carpenter ants are found in Canada?
In Canada, the two most prevalent species of carpenter ants are the black carpenter ant and the red carpenter ant. The black carpenter ant is more abundant across the country, while the red carpenter ant is predominantly found in eastern regions.
How did carpenter ants get into my home?
Carpenter ants can enter your home through various means, including cracks in the foundation, gaps around windows and doors, tree branches touching the house, or through firewood brought indoors. They are skilled climbers and can navigate through tree branches and across utility lines to gain access to your property. They will be especially incentivized to enter rooms with access to food and water such as kitchens or bathrooms.
How to tell the difference between termites and carpenter ants
Termites and carpenter ants are often confused as they are both common wood-boring pests however, when you know what to look for they are easy to tell apart. While they may appear similar at first glance, some key features can help you distinguish between the two. Carpenter ants have a narrow waist, bent antennae, and forewings that are longer than their hind wings. In contrast, termites have a broad waist, straight antennae, and wings of equal length.
DID YOU KNOW? Unlike termites, carpenter ants do not eat wood. They simply build tunnels in the wood to create their nests. |
How do I know if I have a carpenter ant problem?
Signs of a carpenter ant infestation include small sawdust piles around the home, rustling sounds within walls, hollow-sounding wood when tapped, and piles of insect wings near windows. You may also see live ants, especially in the evenings when they are most active.
How to get rid of carpenter ants
To effectively eliminate carpenter ants, it is crucial to locate and treat the main nest, as well as any satellite colonies. Consulting a professional pest control service is recommended for accurate identification, precise treatment, and long-term elimination.
How to prevent carpenter ants
Prevention plays a vital role in minimizing the risk of carpenter ant infestations. Here are some preventive measures you can take:
- Seal cracks and gaps in the foundation, walls, and windows to deny entry points.
- Trim tree branches and vegetation away from your house to prevent ant highways.
- Store firewood away from your home and inspect it before bringing it indoors.
- Address any moisture issues, such as leaks or condensation, as carpenter ants are attracted to damp environments.
- Regularly inspect wooden structures for signs of damage and promptly address any issues.
If you suspect a carpenter ant infestation but aren’t sure it’s best to call your local pest control professionals. Identifying a carpenter ant infestation early on can save you from significant structural damage and costly repairs.
Are you in need of carpenter ant removal services? Terminix Canada has you covered! We offer expert pest & wildlife control services for both residential and commercial properties with locations across Canada including BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland. Call us today to get rid of your carpenter ant problem for good!