Carpenter ants are dangerous because they chew through wood, including structural and framing beams of your home. While there are approximately 24 species of carpenter ants, the most significant threat is the black carpenter ant. You will want to contact residential pest control services in Burlington if you suspect a carpenter ant infestation.

Carpenter ants are the largest ant species. While they do not build as large of colonies as Argentine ants, they do create significant settlements with the potential for several satellite colonies in a single property.

The Dangers of Carpenter Ants

As with any insect infestation, carpenter ants present health and safety threats to homeowners. The ants can contaminate food sources and counter surfaces in search of food for the colony. Still, the most significant risk to homeowners is the insects’ threat to their property.

1. Property and Home Damage

Counter to popular belief, carpenter ants do not eat wood. The insects chew through wood, shaping tunnels and hollows to allow a colony to thrive. In essence, the ants are contractors, building a new home and removing materials they do not need to ensure an adequate structure.

Unfortunately, as the ants remove material from beams, they weaken the existing structure of your home or other elements on your property, such as decks or sheds. If a colony grows enough, it can cause collapses and other issues, resulting in significant losses and expenses for property and homeowners.

The best way to prevent damage to your property is to keep all exposed wood dry. Carpenter ants prefer damp, soft wood because it is easier to chew, and they can make quick work of tunnels. It would be best if you kept any stacked firewood or lumber off the ground and covered, and protected against the elements. Keep wood piles away from your house to prevent venturing ants.

2. Bites

Carpenter ants do not have a reputation for biting humans, but that said, the insects do bite occasionally. Carpenter ant bites can inflict severe pain because of the size and strength of their mandibles. The powerful appendages can easily tear through the skin. Also, they secrete formic acid into the skin, causing an uncomfortable and pervasive burning sensation.

While it is uncommon for carpenter ants to bite humans, it does occur. Like most living things, the ants will defend themselves when threatened or cornered. It is best to steer clear of the ants whenever possible. Contact a carpenter ant pest control specialist if you suspect you have an infestation.

The Importance of Immediate Treatment

Carpenter ant damage can occur quickly, but significant structural damage can take years. To avoid severe damage, it is crucial to deal with infestations quickly.

As soon as you find evidence of carpenter ants or see them roaming through your house or near your home’s foundation, contact a specialist in carpenter ant removal. The ants do not eat wood, but move it out of the way, pushing it toward the exits. You will often find small piles of wood dust near small holes that prove a colony is working.

Professional pest control services can help you correct any issues before they become problematic. The services use carpenter ant-specific bait and treatments to deter the ants and eliminate colonies.

Carpenter Ant Removal and Treatment Services

Have you seen carpenter ant activity around your property? Contact Truly Nolen Canada to schedule a property assessment and estimate. The company will send a team to inspect your home and its exterior, looking for signs of an ant infestation. The team will offer possible solutions and provide an estimated treatment timeline if there is evidence of a colony.