One of the most frequent invasions in homes relates to carpenter ants, more so in Connecticut because climatic conditions favour them to invade and nest in the building structures. In so doing, these ants, unlike termites that consume wooden material to sustain their lives; refine wooden material to derive nesting sites from it. Their presence in the buildings can lead to some structural damage hence requiring people to know how to identify them at early stages before they cause a lot of havoc. This guide will discuss the symptoms of Ant Infestations, the factors causing them and how to treat and prevent them.
Understanding Carpenter Ants and Their Behavior
The largest species from the carpenter ant family, these ants are black or reddish-black. The female weaves bowls like nests in decayed wood that they plane out – hence why they are repellent to homes with wooden structures or nearby access to wood. Unlike termites, carpenter ants do not feed on wood but they trim galleries, leaving skin-like surfaces or sanded finish.
Their behaviour ensures that you notice any sign of an infestation of the ants in the house before the ants cause immense damage.
Signs of Carpenter Ant Infestations
Carpenter ants in house – there are early signs that if addressed can help eradicate carpenter ants effectively. Here are some key indicators:
- Presence of Frass (Wood Shavings):
Carpenter ants make frass which resembles sawdust. Don’t be alarmed if you find tiny heaps of sawdust-like particles near wooden structures, baseboards, or window sills; these could indicate a concealed ant infestation.
- Visible Ant Trails:
While other ants may work in formation, carpenter ants create visible lines or trails toward their destination, especially at night when they are most active. They say that if you see these lines, it could mean that there is infestation in the vicinity.
- Hollow-Sounding Wood:
Go around your house and knock on any wooden part of the furniture or walls. If some parts of it seem distinctly echoey, it could be because carpenter ants have been tunnelling through the wood to create their home.
- Winged Ants (Swarmers):
Swarming winged carpenter ants may be noticed during spring when the queen ants look for new colonies to start. If you see them inside these holes, then you are sure they are already in the house.
- Rustling Noises in Walls:
If the infestation has gone further, then you may be hearing faint rustling sounds from the walls since carpenter ants are creating and moving in their galleries.
Causes of Carpenter Ant Infestations
Carpenter ants infestations and the causes of them should be understood to prevent any future problems. Here are some of the most common factors:
- Excess Moisture: Carpenter ants seek out moist or damp wood and often gather around wet pipes, poorly ventilated areas, and basements. What also concerns them is that moist wood is easier for them to excavate so they must manage moisture.
- Tree Branches or Shrubs Touching the Home: Bushy trees and shrubs which touch the house provide carpenter ants with a channel into the structure. These paths they use to penetrate homes and develop nests.
- Stored Firewood or Woodpiles Near the House: These ants can frequently be found in firewood that is still stacked within a home. When you stack firewood right against the house, ants gain pathways to invade the home.
- Decaying or Rotted Wood: Old or damp woods which have begun to rot are also suitable breeding grounds for carpenter ants. Maintaining sturdy woodwork and repairing deteriorated wood can reduce the likelihood of an ant infestation in a building.
Preventing Carpenter Ant Infestations
If it comes to control of carpenter ants, it’s only wise to follow the saying, an ounce of prevention is better than a cure. Here are some effective steps to take:
Eliminate Moisture Sources
Have any leaks fixed, inspect and maintain adequate flow of air in the attic and the under-floor area, and make sure the basement stays wet-proofed. Reducing moisture in your home can minimize the chances of attracting carpenter ants.
Trim Trees and Shrubs Near the House
Mow grass and avoid planting trees and shrubs close to your home to ensure they do not come into contact with the house surface. This one-step measure can prevent an infestation of ants in the house.
Store Firewood Away from the Home
Store firewood and lumber far from the house. Ideally, stack wood piles at least twenty feet away from your home to help control carpenter ants, and raise the pile off the ground.
Seal Entry Points
These ants can also enter through any gap in the foundation, doors, or windows. Caulking and weather stripping these cracks will help exclude them.
Remove Decaying Wood
Add checking for the rotted wood to your list of things to look for on the outside and inside of your house. Repair any rotted areas immediately to deter carpenter ants from returning and nesting there.
Inspect the Property Regularly
Inspect your home for ant infestations frequently, especially in areas prone to moisture or wood growth, such as basements and attics.
Treating an Existing Carpenter Ant Infestation
When you detect an infestation in the house, take the next course of action without delay. Here are some treatment options:
- Bait Stations: Carpenter ants can be controlled using borated sweet and protein baits. Position these baits along these trails or near nests of the colony if you want to effectively reach the errant colony.
- Insecticidal Dust: Insecticidal dust can be applied in wall voids or cracks where carpenter ants may be nesting. Dusts are persistent and can even kill ants on contact.
- Professional Pest Control Services: For a high population of pests, it is advisable to seek the services of a professional pest control service provider. With the services of GOGETFIX, those living in Connecticut can find qualified extermination specialists who will identify the infestation and carry out the treatment very well and without any danger.
- DIY Treatments: For minor invasions, you may opt for natural treatment options such as using diatomaceous which is non-toxic to pets or children. However, where there is a large number of pests, then seeking services from a professional exterminator is the best way to go.
Conclusion
How to get rid of carpenter ants is very important for homeowners in Connecticut since carpenter ants pose a threat to structures. If you apprehend an infestation in the house or observe any sign of this pest, ensure you act fast. Proper maintenance and inspection will enable you to avoid ants at your home but in severe cases, it is advisable to seek the services of a professional.
At GOGETFIX we offer pest control services for Connecticut homes with a solution that fits your needs. Our team is capable of easily dealing with Ant Infestations in your home so you can have a long-term solution to the problem. Get in touch with GOGETFIX today to schedule an appointment and have us protect your property against carpenter ants and other pests.