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Carpenter ants get their name from the fact that they excavate wood in order to build their nests. Their work results in a number of smooth tunnels inside the wood that can damage the integrity of a structure. This is exactly why homeowners should always know what to do about carpenter ants & look out for any signs of these poets around their home or property. They are large individuals, ranging in size from one quarter inch for a worker, to up to three quarter inches for a queen. Read on to find out more!

Habits

All species of these pests mainly attack wood that is, or has been, wet and damaged by mould. Even though they will first invade wet, decayed wood, they may soon begin building paths through dry, undamaged wood that make up the structure of your home. They usually get inside buildings through cracks around doors, windows, or through holes for wires. They will also crawl along overhead wires, shrubs, or tree limbs that touch the building far above the ground.

Habitat

These insects also much prefer to build their nests outdoors in various wood sources, including tree stumps, firewood or landscaping. They need a constant water source to survive. These critters will enter the house through wet, damaged spaces and infest the entirety of your home.

Threats

These pests damage wood through their nest building mostly, but also through building pathways to move along. If they gain entry to a structure, they pose a property threat and can degrade the safety of your home, and diminish the property value if left over time.

Prevention

You can limit, or even prevent the threat these critters pose to your house by following a few key ideas. As these bugs need a water source, eliminating these issues and moisture or standing water will reduce the chance of these issues occuring. Keep tree branches and other plants cut back from the house. Sometimes these areas can be used to get into your home. Make sure that there are no cracks or little openings around the bottom of your house that could allow access to the structure of your home.

Sometimes carpenter ants can use a number of spaces and access points to get into your home. Make sure that firewood and building materials are not stored close to the building or it may increase the chances of issues arising. When you need professional assistance you need to contact us immediately and seek our experienced team!