Carpenter Ants

At one time or another, most homes probably have at least a casual infestation of carpenter ants. The most common species in our area, Camponotus pennsylvanicus (DeGeer), is a large black ant about 1/4 to 1/2 inch long. Carpenter ants excavate nest galleries with their enlarged, jaw like mandibles in live, dead, or seasoned wood. They are ecologically important in speeding up the decomposition of rotting wood and are also beneficial by feeding on many other insect pests.

Carpenter ants are common in urban, suburban, as well as rural areas. They do not feed on wood like termites, but expel their borings, which accumulate beneath openings to their galleries as piles of fibrous sawdust. This evidence often reveals possible nesting sites.

Wood that is moist or already in some state of decomposition seems prone to attack by carpenter ants or at least provides them with channels for invasion. However, nests have been found in wood ranging from sound and dry to soft and wet. Leaks in roofing and siding, faulty flashing around chimneys skylights and gables, poor drainage, and condensation from poor ventilation are often factors contributing to infestations.

The extent and potential damage to a home depends on how many nests are actually present within the structure, and how long the infestation has been active. In general, if activity is noted throughout the entire year, or if the emergence of large winged ants inside the structure is noted, chances are the infestation is at least 2 to 3 years old.

Ant traps are not an effective measure in controlling carpenter ants, as carpenter ants do not rely heavily on scent trails to lead other foragers to food sources like other common ant species. Effective control depends on two principal measures:

  Avoiding or eliminating sources of moisture since they prefer to nest in damp or moist wood. Unless all moisture problems in the structure are corrected, re-infestation is likely.

Professionally locating and responsibly treating the nest sites directly.

 

We Can Tailor A Carpenter Ant Protection Plan For Your Home

Since carpenter ant problems can not always be solved on the first attempt, the type of warranty offered and the reputation of the company that you choose to handle your problem, should be factored into your purchasing decision.

Good Riddance Inc. has a variety of program offerings for carpenter ant treatments, with warranties ranging from 90 days to a full 12 months. Thus, we can tailor a program for you that will meet your needs and fit your budget. Be aware that pest control companies approach carpenter ant problems differently, so be sure to ask what their plan of attack is. We at Good Riddance Inc. know that if no effort is made to locate carpenter ant nests, or probable nest sites, the problem will most likely continue. Thus, our approach in carpenter ant treatment relies heavily on attempting to locate the nest(s), and selectively treating in those specific areas. We also apply a perimeter spray treatment to the exterior foundation in an effort to prevent re-invasion.

Carpenter Ant Prevention Plan

A number of steps can be taken by homeowners to reduce the potential for future carpenter ant problems.

1. Correct roof leaks, plumbing leaks and other moisture problems which attract carpenter ants.

2. Eliminate wood to soil contact such as where landscaping has moved soil or mulch up against the wood siding of a home.

3. Clip back tree limbs and vegetation touching the roof or siding of the home. Limbs and branches can serve as "bridges" between carpenter ants nesting in trees and the home.

4. Seal cracks and openings in the foundation, especially where utility pipes and wires enter from the outside

5. Stack firewood away from the foundation and elevate it off the ground. Never store firewood indoors or in a garage as firewood is a prime nesting area for carpenter ants.