Preventing carpenter ant infestations
Carpenter ants received their name because they excavate wood in order to build their nests. Their excavation results in smooth tunnels inside the wood that can damage the integrity of a structure. For this reason homeowners should always look out for any signs of carpenter ants. They are large ants, ranging in size from one quarter inch for a worker ant, to up to three quarter inches for a queen.
This is according to Du Toit Mostert from Mostert Pest Control. He shares his knowledge on what to look out for when it comes to carpenter ants:
Habits
All species of carpenter ants mainly attack wood that is, or has been, wet and damaged by mould. Even though these ants first invade wet, decayed wood, they may soon begin building paths through dry, undamaged wood.
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
Carpenter ants build their nests outdoors in various wood sources, including tree stumps, firewood or landscaping. They need a constant water source to survive. Carpenter ants will enter the house through wet, damaged wood.
Threats
Carpenter ants damage wood through their nest building. If they gain entry to a structure, they pose a property threat.
Prevention
You can limit, or even prevent the threat carpenter ants pose to your house by following these tips:
- Carpenter ants require a water source. To prevent black carpenter ants from entering the house, eliminate sources of moisture or standing water.
- Keep tree branches and other plants cut back from the house. Sometimes carpenter ants use these branches to get into your home.
- Make sure that there are no cracks or little openings around the bottom of your house. Sometimes carpenter ants use these to get into your home.
- Make sure that firewood and building materials are not stored next to your home. Carpenter ants like to build nests in stacks of wood.
Be sure to look out for these pests in order to protect your property.
20 Apr 2015
Author Du Toit Mostert