Carpenter ants may be a type of ant, but they can do damage similar to termites. While they do not eat wood like termites, carpenter ants bore through wood, creating tunnels to travel through and nest in. If your home is infested with carpenter ants, you can expect an overwhelming amount of damage. Fortunately, these simple steps can help prevent a carpenter ant infestation.
Remove Moisture Sources
Carpenter ants do want wood and warmth, but they are also on the hunt for moisture. Even a small amount of moisture can attract these ants and a variety of other pests, so you need to eliminate any moisture sources in and around your home.
For example, if you have unused containers or planters around the home that are collecting rain water, remove them to ensure water is not left standing around your home.
A hidden water leak, damp basement or crawlspace, or high levels of humidity due to a faulty heating and cooling system can all lead to moisture issues that attract carpenter ants and other pests.
Trim and Clean Landscaping
You should also focus on the landscaping, especially any landscaping, such as trees and shrubs that are planted close to your home.
Overgrown shrubs not only hold in moisture, but they also allow ants to move from the outdoor into your home with ease, affecting the exterior siding and foundation. Trees with branches laying over your roof can also attract carpenter ants, allowing them to move from the trees to your attic and roofline, increasing the risk of an infestation.
Also, if any of the plants, shrubs, and trees are starting to rot and decay, carpenter ants will be more attracted to your landscape, eventually making their way into your home.
Proper Home Maintenance
Clutter, whether it be a pile of clothes, magazines, or firewood, can also attract carpenter ants and other pests. Although it is fine to have these items in your home, the clutter should be clean and organized in a way that will not attract pests.
Firewood that is improperly stored close to your home's exterior will become wet and appealing to these ants or even termites. Be sure it is stored in a covered shelter away from your home.
Another part of home maintenance is sealing up any cracks and crevices in your crawlspace and home's exterior.
Finally, have your home periodically inspected and treated by an insect pest control service. This will not only prevent infestations, but also treat any pest issues.