Discovering signs of carpenter ants in the house can be quite disturbing, but this evidence will definitely help you deal with the issue sooner and better. Watch out for wood shavings or frass with no termites, winged ants or swarmers, ant trails, and sounds in the wood.
These resourceful insects can cause significant damage to your property if left unchecked.
Identifying the signs of carpenter ants and locating their nest is essential for effective eradication. In this article, we will explore the signs of carpenter ants in your house and provide you with valuable insights on how to find their nests.
What Are The Signs Of Carpenter Ants In Your House?
Like most house bugs, carpenter ants leave behind several signs that can indicate their presence in your home. Identifying these signs of a carpenter ant infestation is crucial for addressing a carpenter ant infestation promptly.
1. Wood Shavings Or Frass
Carpenter ants do not eat wood like termites. Instead, they excavate it to build their nests. Look for carpenter ant droppings such as coarse wood shavings that resemble sawdust near areas where the ants are active.
2. Absence Of Termite Damage
Unlike termites, carpenter ants do not cause extensive damage to wood. If you notice wood with minimal structural damage but find wood shavings nearby, it may be a sign of carpenter ants.
3. Winged Ants Or Swarmers
During the spring or summer months, keep an eye out for winged ants or swarmers indoors. These reproductive ants are looking to establish new colonies and suggest an active carpenter ant infestation. Also, shed wings lying around are a common sign.
4. Ant Trails
Carpenter ants create well-defined trails along structural elements like baseboards, window frames, or door frames. Look for smooth and worn-out areas on surfaces where the ants repeatedly travel.
5. Hollow Or Rustling Sounds
Tap suspected areas with a tool or your knuckles. If you hear a hollow sound, it could indicate evidence of carpenter ants nesting within the wood. Also, their scraping activity in wood makes a rustling or scratching sound.
This is a very common drywall sign of carpenter ants, so if you have drywall at home, beware!
How To Tell If You Have Carpenter Ants?
Apart from wood shavings, there are other signs that can help you identify whether you have a carpenter ant infestation. Look out for the presence of winged ants or swarmers, especially during the spring or summer months.
Another sign is the presence of “ant highways. Carpenter ants establish trails along structural elements, such as baseboards, window frames, or door frames. These trails are often visible as smooth and worn-out areas on the surfaces, as the ants repeatedly follow the same paths.
Knowing how to identify ant infestation is just one of the most important homeowner maintenance knowledge you need!
What Does A Carpenter Ant Look Like?
To effectively identify carpenter ants, it is important to know their physical characteristics. Carpenter ants are relatively large, measuring between a quarter and a half inch in length. They have a segmented body with a narrow waist and elbowed antennae.
Their color can vary, but they are commonly black or dark brown, with some species displaying a combination of red and black.
What Does A Carpenter Ant Nest Look Like?
Carpenter ant nests are typically found in damp or decaying wood. Unlike termites, carpenter ants do not eat wood but excavate it to create their nesting galleries. The nests can be located both indoors and outdoors, usually in areas with high moisture content.
Outdoors, they establish nests in tree stumps, firewood piles, or dead tree branches. Indoor nests are found in wall voids, attic spaces, crawlspaces, or areas with water damage. Carpenter ant nests often have a smooth, sandpaper-like appearance and can contain multiple chambers.
How To Find A Carpenter Ant Nest?
If you wish to prevent these pests beware: locating a carpenter ant nest can be a challenging task as they are adept at concealing their presence. Begin by observing the areas where you have noticed the signs of carpenter ants, such as wood shavings or ant trails.
Follow the trails to determine their point of origin. Look for any signs of moisture or damaged wood, as these are favorable conditions for their nests.
Using a flashlight, thoroughly inspect areas with high humidity, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. Pay close attention to wall voids, window frames, and areas near plumbing fixtures.
Being aware of the signs of carpenter ants in your house and knowing how to find their nest is crucial for addressing the issue promptly. Don’t let the ants take over your house, call homeyou’s pest control contractors to get rid of them promptly!
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