In the realm of household pests, carpenter ants stand out not only for their size but also for the significant damage they can inflict on homes and other structures. These pests are more than just a nuisance; they can lead to costly repairs. Learn how to spot these invaders and understand the risk they pose to your property in your Pennsylvania property. 

Are Carpenter Ants a Common Problem in Pennsylvania?

Indeed, carpenter ants are prevalent in Pennsylvania, making them a frequent subject for ant extermination experts. Besides carpenter ants, residents may encounter odorous house ants, pavement ants, acrobat ants, and pharaoh ants. However, it’s the carpenter ants that often cause the most alarm due to their destructive habits.

Identifying Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are among the larger ant species, ranging in size from 5/8” to ½” and displaying a reddish-black hue. A single colony can house up to 20,000 workers, dwarfing the colonies of other common ant species like the pavement ant.

The Threats Posed by Carpenter Ants

Contrary to popular belief, carpenter ants do not consume wood. Instead, they excavate wood to establish their nests, preferring moist or damaged wood as their starting point. These ants can set up their colonies in various wooden structures, from tree stumps to the very framework of your house. 

The primary concern with carpenter ants is their ability to undermine the structural integrity of buildings. Often, their presence and the extent of their damage go unnoticed until significant harm has been done. Additionally, these ants can bite, causing discomfort with a burning sensation, though this is not typically a severe health risk.

Signs of an Infestation

If you believe that your ant problem is a carpenter ant here are some common signs: 

  • Visible Ants: Seeing worker ants or swarmers could indicate a nearby colony.
  • Holes and Sawdust: Small openings on wooden surfaces and accompanying piles of sawdust suggest carpenter ant activity.
  • Unusual Noises: Soft rustling sounds from wooden areas may signal the presence of these pests.

Preventing Carpenter Ant Invasions

If you want to prevent carpenter ants or have dealt with them before  and want to prevent a second infestation here are some prevention tips: 

  • Firewood Storage: Keep firewood at a distance from your home to prevent easy access for ants.
  • Moisture Control: Repair leaks promptly to avoid creating attractive conditions for carpenter ants.
  • Trim Vegetation: Ensure that no trees or shrubs directly touch your home, particularly if it has wooden siding.
  • Professional Assistance: Engaging pest control experts can ensure the effective removal of infestations and provide guidance on preventing future issues.

Your Solution to Carpenter Ant Problems

Do not let carpenter ants compromise your property. Seitz Bros. Pest Control offers thorough inspections and treatments tailored to eliminate carpenter ants and protect against other common pests in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Our ant control program is designed to tackle the unique challenges posed by these and other ant species. Contact us to secure a free quote and safeguard your home.