CARPENTER ANTS, GENERAL PEST
Carpenter ants are particularly notorious for excavating wood to build their nests, which can undermine the structural integrity of buildings. Unlike termites, which consume wood, carpenter ants leave a trail of destruction in their wake.
Carpenter ants are among the largest ant species, measuring between 1/4 inch to over 1 inch in length. They flourish in Hawaii's humid environment, which provides the damp conditions they thrive in. These ants come in a range of colors, with black, red, and yellow being the most common.
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CARPENTER ANTS
WHEN IT COMES TO CARPENTER ANTS,
WE ABSOLUTELY STOMP THEM OUT.
Understanding carpenter ant behavior is key to controlling them effectively. They typically nest in wood that has been weakened by moisture. According to a study, damaged wood can attract carpenter ants, leading to severe structural issues if the infestation goes unchecked. Carpenter ants are predominantly nocturnal, making them tricky to spot during the day, but they often leave behind visible trails as they forage for food.
Carpenter ants excavate wood to create nests, which compromises the strength of your home. Left unchecked, the damage can escalate, leading to expensive repairs. A study revealed that homeowners could face repair bills exceeding $3,000 if infestations are ignored.
CARPENTER ANTS
Signs of Carpenter Ant Infestation
Spotting an infestation early is essential to saving money on repairs. Here are some common signs to look for
Sawdust-like Frass: Carpenter ants produce small wood shavings as they carve out nests. Finding this frass near wooden structures or inside your home is a strong indication of their presence.
Hollow Sounding Wood: Tapping on wooden structures can reveal if carpenter ants are at work. If the wood sounds hollow, it likely has damage from these ants.
Live Ants: Seeing the ants themselves, particularly during their active foraging hours at night, can indicate the scale of your infestation.
Winged Ants: In certain seasons, reproductive ants will take flight. If you spot winged ants, it’s a sign a colony is well-established nearby.
Some indicators include:
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Trail Observation: Look for small ant trails near food sources and nests, typically found in trees or shrubs.
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Bait Testing: Using sugar baits can help trap ants, providing insights into their foraging habits.
TOUGHER THAN TERMITES
Delaying treatment can escalate costs dramatically. In extreme cases, homes can suffer so much damage that they become unsafe. Additionally, homes with histories of termite issues experience drops in resale value. Potential buyers may be reluctant to invest in a property marked by pest damage, which can further complicate your financial situation.