3 Signs of Carpenter Ant Infestations

Carpenter ants can cause serious damage to your home, especially when left untreated for a significant amount of time.

Fortunately for homeowners, it can take years for major structural damage to occur, so finding the infestation in the early stages can save homeowners unnecessary stress and money.

A carpenter ant infestation within a building usually means that there is a moisture problem. Carpenter ants rarely nest in dry wood and typically seek wood that has been softened by moisture, decay, and/or other insects. They prefer to nest in structural lumber such as in wall voids, window sills, hollow-core doors, wood scraps, porch columns, roofs, and wood in contact with soil.

Knowing the signs of carpenter ant damage is the first step towards eliminating an infestation and preventing future damage.

3 Signs of Carpenter Ant Infestation

Visible Ants

The most obvious sign of carpenter ant infestation is the presence of the ants inside a building or home. However, the presence of ants is not conclusive evidence, as carpenter ants forage for food within great distances of their nests. When large, winged ants emerge from ceilings, walls, and other hidden crevices, an infestation is almost certain.

Wood Shavings & Damage

Carpenter ants burrow into wood to create their nests, clearing out the wood as the travel deeper into the wood. You will usually see piles of fine sawdust and insect parts, which is known as “frass,” near small holes in walls, doorways, and other wood the ants have infested.

If you are able to view the carpenter ant galleries, you will see smooth walls with holes through which worker ants eject unwanted debris.

Noises

A carpenter ant infestation can also sometimes be detected by faint rustling noises inside woodwork or walls. The sounds happen as the carpenter ants move around or chew through the wood. 

When an infestation is suspected, it’s always best to employ a licensed pest management professional, especially since carpenter ants can bite if they are handled or threatened.

Catseye Pest Control offers no-cost inspections to detect and evaluate any pest-related damage. The Catseye Carpenter Ant Eradication Program is a strategic, proven treatment that will eliminate the ants from your home. Contact us if you think you have a problem with carpenter ants or any other dangerous pests.