Carpenter ants are a major concern for homeowners, as they can cause significant damage to the wooden structures of a house. These pests don’t eat wood; instead, they excavate tunnels and galleries to build their nests, which can compromise your home’s structural integrity over time. Getting rid of them requires a strategic approach that targets the entire colony.
Why DIY Methods Often Fail with Carpenter Ants
The biggest mistake homeowners make is spraying or killing individual ants they see foraging. This only eliminates a few workers and can cause the colony to panic and split into smaller “satellite” nests, which actually makes your infestation worse and harder to eliminate. The key to a permanent solution is finding and destroying the primary nest, which is often hidden deep within wall voids, insulation, or water-damaged wood.
Professional Steps for Complete Carpenter Ant Removal
For a successful and long-lasting solution, professional pest control is the most reliable option. Here is the strategic process an expert will follow:
- Thorough Inspection: A professional will inspect all vulnerable areas—especially those with high moisture or water damage—like under sinks, around window and door frames, in the attic, and along the foundation. They are looking for key evidence like frass (sawdust-like debris) and established ant trails.
- Locating the Nest: The main colony is often outdoors in a dead tree, stump, or firewood pile, with satellite nests established inside the structure. Technicians are trained to track the ants back to their source, sometimes using specialized tools to detect the faint rustling sound they make while chewing wood.
- Targeted Treatment: The most effective method is to directly treat the nest(s) with professional-grade, residual insecticides or dusts. This ensures the elimination of the queen and the entire colony. Baits specially formulated for carpenter ants may also be strategically used, designed to be carried back and shared with the rest of the nest members.
- Prevention and Repair: After the infestation is eradicated, your technician will recommend structural and moisture control repairs (like fixing leaky pipes or sealing gaps) to eliminate conditions favourable for future infestations.
If you are seeing large, black ants in your house, especially in the spring or late winter, don’t wait. Early detection and professional intervention are the best ways to protect your property.
Don’t let carpenter ants chew away at your peace of mind. Call Pestward today for a professional inspection and effective removal!