What are carpenter ants?
Unlike other ants (such as odorous ants and other nuisances), carpenter ants are much larger. They range from 1/8 to 1/2 of an inch in length.
Carpenter ants are typically black in coloring, although some may also exhibit a red or yellow coloration.
Most carpenter ants are wingless. However, during April and May in Middle Tennessee, you are likely to notice swarms of flying ants, which are the reproductive members of the carpenter ant colony.
Carpenter ants are often mistaken for swarming termites. But, if you know what to look for, you can distinguish the two. Winged carpenter ants have elbowed antennae with front wings that are larger than their hind wings and a constricted waist. Termites, on the other hand, have beaded antennae, equal-sized front and hind wings, and a broad waist. But, like termites, carpenter ants are capable of damaging the wood in which they nest.
Are carpenter ants dangerous?
Carpenter ants are not poisonous; for the most part, they are harmless to people and although they may bite, the result generally feels like a pinch. In most cases, medical treatment is not required. The damage carpenter ants inflict on structures, however, is quite extensive. Carpenter ants will excavate inside structures in order to create galleries where they will establish their nests. If carpenter ant infestations are not treated, damage to wood grows significantly.
Why do I have a carpenter ant problem?
Unlike termites that eat wood, carpenter ants do not. They are likely to enter your home via window frames, eaves and door frames in search of food. Though carpenter ants dwell outdoors in dead or rotting wood where they establish their main (or parent) colony, they can also set up satellite colonies in homes. Carpenter ants prefer wood that has been damaged by leaks or that has been exposed to severe moisture but may also move into sound wood.
How do I get rid of carpenter ants?
At All-American Pest Control, we offer pest control treatments for homes infested with carpenter ants and other household pests. To learn more about our home pest control services, our green pest control solutions, or to find out how we can help you control carpenter ants in your commercial establishment, please contact us today.
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Can I do it myself?
In order to successfully resolve your carpenter ant problem, you must find the source of the colony. This is not something property owners/managers have much success with. Instead, treatments usually target the foraging carpenter ants and don’t address the whole infestation. At the first sign of a carpenter ant problem, contact All-American Pest Control.
Why choose All-American Pest Control?
We are a locally owned and family operated Nashville pest control company with over 50 years of experience. When you partner with our team, you'll receive trained pest control specialists, serious commitment and thorough treatments.
How can I prevent a carpenter ant problem in the future?
You can prevent a carpenter ant infestation by removing rotten or decaying wood from your property, replacing damaged wood in your home, and correcting moisture issues. You should also seal any cracks in the foundation of the home and where utilities enter along with any other openings or gaps around doors, windows, etc.
Helpful Carpenter Ant Articles
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Keeping The Carpenter Ants In Hendersonville Away From Your Property