"Wood ants" seen infesting wooden objects around a home are usually carpenter ants or termites. Identification should be easy: if it looks like an ant (3 distinct body parts) it is an ant but it looks like a white ant that has only 2 body parts it could be a worker termite. If you are not sure, go to wood ant, carpenter ant identification tips.

The first sign of a carpenter ant infestation is usually the sighting of numerous workers throughout the home. However, the presence of workers alone is not conclusive evidence that a colony is established within a structure. Carpenter ant workers tend to roam far and wide looking for food, and some transient workers are sure to enter any home located in a wooded area. Signs of an active infestation include the presence of fibrous sawdust beneath slit-like openings in wood members and faint, rustling noises in walls and woodwork. A positive indication that an active, mature infestation is present is the emergence of large winged ants from walls, ceilings, or crawl spaces.

Carpenter ant galleries in wood have smooth surfaces and can be differentiated from subterranean termite damage by the absence of "mud" in the galleries. Ants normally excavate wood that has been softened by decay or other insects, however, they will tunnel into sound wood when conditions are favorable. Nests and galleries may be located a considerable distance from the point or points of entry. In addition to structural lumber, sites such as hollow-core doors, window headers, wall voids, and foam panels are particularly attractive to carpenter ants.

Carpenter ants often enter homes through openings such as foundation or attic vents, cracks, plumbing holes, entrances for telephone and electric wires, etc. One thing to look for during an inspection are tree branches that may be just above or in contact with the roof. Firewood piles are prime nesting sites and should be treated with an appropriately labeled pesticide such as Advance Carpenter Ant Bait, Suspend SC, Talstar Concentrate or Cynoff.
Advance Carpenter Ant Bait is an ant bait that is scattered around piles of wood, around structures or in the home. Suspend SC, Talstar Concentrate and Cynoff are excellent pesticides used for immediate kill and long term control of carpenter ants and many other insect pests. If damage to fire wood is extensive, simply dispose of the wood.

Household Pest Control Pesticides Pest Control Equipment Household Pests

Carpenter Ants Carpenter Ant Inspection Carpenter Ant Elimination