
Carpenter ants are one of the common types of ants found in different households, and they can pose a significant threat to homes made of wood. The black and red carpenter ants are the most common species found in Canada.
Red Carpenter Ant: Striking a dark brownish black body with dark reddish brown superstructure.
Black Carpenter Ant: Reddish brown black, darkly consolidated.
Carpenter ants’ body length ranges from 0.24 – 1 inch (6 – 25 mm) they possess a three-part body structure and segmented waists that serve as a link between their rough and smooth bodies. Additionally, they have Bent Segment Antennae, which is considered their trademark. Male and female adults grow wings during the mating season.
And this is why meddling with carpenter ants is not the best approach.
For these reasons, they are doubly dangerous due to the fact that they inflict great harm to structures and are also a big problem in the house. They are well-known for the following:
Damaging wooden structures:
Carpenter ants do not eat wood unlike termites do. Instead, they chew into it to create nests or galleries. These animals tend to make tunnels that are much larger than what a termite would create and the wood that got displaced appears like shavings, with sawdust observed surrounding their nests. · Searching for Food: These ants are omnivorous; they consume bugs, small invertebrates, and sweet fluids from aphis, and they also attempt to get large amounts of protein and sugar from foods within the house.
Signs of Infestation
Shavings similar to sawdust found near wooden structures. · Very soft rustle sounds from inside the walls or ceilings. · Huge black and red ants are seen around wooden structures with moisture damage. · During west airplane accompanied, carpenter ants or winged can be seen especially in the mating season.
It is necessary to have a three pronged approach in eliminating Carpenter ants where identification, determination of the nest, and some control measures have to be taken. Below are the steps to guide you properly on how to deal with this infestation.
Step 1: Recognize Carpenter Ants
Search for big-headed ants possessing elbowed antennae and segmented bodies such as the red carpenter ant.
Examine places that are likely to be moist such as the kitchen, basement, or bathroom.
Survey wooden structures for any evidence of chewing damage.
Step 2: Discover the Site of the Nest
Carpenter ant nests are usually discovered within rotting wood that is damp. Some places where the nests can be found include:
Inside walls
Loft spaces
Basements
Broken chairs and tables
Step 3: Apply Treatment that is focused
Non-toxic Treatments:
Treatment would come in the form of boric acid, diatomaceous earth or multi use ant bait.
Do It Yourself Treatments: You can mix sugar and baking soda and use it as a bait or you can spray ants with vinegar and water.
Non Organic Treatments: Insecticide bait or sprays are available for carpenter ants that are safe for indoors.
Step 4: Hire an Exterminator
If the infestation still persists, you can call a certified pest control operator. This pest control expert will take care of the issue in a permanent manner making life very simple over the long term.
Ways to Prevent Carpenter Ant Infestation.
The most practical approach is to practice prevention so that carpenter ant problems do not arise. Use these methods:
- Remove all sources of moisture and replace damaged pipes and leaking faucets.
- Make sure that there is sufficient airflow in the basement and attic.
- Keep humid areas cool with dehumidifiers.
- Block Cracks
- Check around windows, doors and the foundation for any openings and seal them shut.
- Cover vents with screens and make sure they are fastened properly.
- Wood Structure Reinforcement
- Fix or replace any decaying or broken wood as soon as possible.
- Coat all outdoor wood with a waterproof sealant.
- Place firewood on a stand and distance it from the house.
- Sanitation
- Clean up food and drinks as soon as they get spilled.
- Use cans or jars that can be sealed tightly to store food.
- Clean the kitchen’s surfaces, cabinets, as well as the floor regularly.
Why It Is Recommended to Call an Exterminator
The best option for dealing with carpenter ants infestations are the starting DIY methods, However with this harsh and lasting pests it is recommended to call The professional pest controllers.
The advantages consist of:
- There services are reliable as they, unlike civilians, possess all the proper and international standardized advanced tools and products.
- Were your living space gobbled up and taken over by these bugs, hope is not lost.
- Exterminators are professionals and highly trained to leave the place pest free while providing you with quality advice on how to avoid this in the future, as they can’t cure the issue completely.
Finding a professional
Carpenter ants can be very damaging to wooden structures if they are not controlled. With your knowledge of their behavior and the signs of infestation, it is simple to take adequate control and prevention measures to keep your house free from these pests. In case of severe infestation, do not delay hiring BP pest control experts.
Common Questions Regarding Who Are Carpenter Ants
Carpenter Ant Exterminator Cost?
The rates of pest control professionals will depend on the level of infestation and their region of operation. Roughly carpenter ant treatment costs in Canada averages between 2 to 600 dollars.
How Do You Get Rid of Carpenter Ants?
Fortunately, a combination of effective treatments along with preventive measures can help permanently eliminate carpenter ants.
What are Some Non Toxic ways to kill Carpenter Ants?
Some of the natural remedies that can be used to control them are diatomaceous earth, boric acid and even a vinegar and water spray.
Wat is the time period for exterminating carpenter ants?
The process of extermination is time dependent on the technique used and may range from a few days to several weeks.
Do Carpenter Ants Construct Their Nests Within Furniture?
The wooden furniture is broken, or infested with moisture, carpenter ants do invade and construct nests within.