Bay Area pest control can seem like a constant struggle, especially when the pests cause property damage. Termites are the most infamous, but they aren't the only insect that can cause property damage.
Carpenter ants in the Bay Area are another likely culprit, capable of chewing through the wooden internal structure of your home just as easily as the termite. On the bright side, they're not quite as destructive because they don't eat the wood, instead simply carving tunnels in which they live.
However, if left untreated, a carpenter ant infestation can still become catastrophic. Our experts at Bay Pest Solution have put together this quick and easy guide to carpenter ants. Read on to learn everything you need to know about these destructive eusocial insects, including how to detect and deter them.
Where Are Typical Carpenter Ant Nesting Sites?
Despite how destructive they can be, it's somewhat difficult to detect black carpenter ants in your home until the infestation has progressed to a very advanced stage. Typically, outdoors, carpenter ants serve an essential role as decomposers. They nest inside old tree stumps, fallen logs, and other wooden structures. However, when they find themselves inside your home, they start to chew through the wooden structures supporting it. They are especially attracted to excess moisture or accessible food areas because they don't eat the wood they chew through.
Is It Possible To Hear Carpenter Ants Chewing A Wall?
There are quite a few signs of carpenter ant damage to watch out for, some more subtle than others. Depending on the size of the infestation, you may be able to hear the insects' activity inside your walls if you listen closely enough. Other signs of an infestation include any actual ants found roaming around your property, wood that sounds hollow when tapped, or small holes on the surface of the wood. Since carpenter ants don't eat the wood they chew through, you may find expelled wood shavings underneath damaged wood, called frass.
If you notice any carpenter ants on your property, you should immediately take action.
What Not To Do About Carpenter Ant Damage
Seeing carpenter ants in your house should be cause for alarm. These pests can wreak havoc on the internal structure of your home while being incredibly difficult to detect, let alone deter. If you spot any signs of carpenter ant damage around your property, you should never ignore it. Instead, take these quick and easy to implement prevention measures:
- Seal cracks and crevices
- Install door sweeps and window screens
- Practice proper food storage and garbage disposal
- Eliminate excess moisture
These steps provide an essential foundation for carpenter ant control, but if they're already inside, or if you want to guarantee they stay away, there's one last step you should take.
Carpenter Ant Extermination In The Bay Area
To avoid carpenter ant damage to your home, seek professional carpenter ant treatment as soon as you notice the signs of an infestation. The earlier you catch it, the better – these pests aren't to be underestimated.
Whether you're currently fighting a carpenter ant colony inside your home or want to protect yourself from the possibility, reach out to our experts at Bay Pest Solution for quick and comprehensive coverage. Our team of trained technicians can schedule times convenient for you. We are equipped with cutting-edge tools and techniques to help you retake control of your home.
Call now to schedule your inspection and discover what Bay Pest Solution can do for you.