Carpenter ants are the only large ants seen in the home; ranging in size from 1/4 to 1 inch in length. These ants are frequently seen in the kitchen foraging for food. Although this does not always mean that there is a nest in the structure, it does mean that there may soon be one. The main colony may be located outdoors in a tree, woodpile or other voids or even on another property. However, they frequently set up satellite colonies in the structure of homes. 
A main colony is sometimes set up in a home when a swarming female lights on the structure seeking a place to lay her first batch of eggs. Many times nests are located in voids that are already in the structure such as hollow walls, window frames, behind insulation and even in unused areas of the living space.
Although these ants do not ingest wood the way that termites do, they cause serious structural damage by hollowing out wood in order to nest and lay their eggs. Unlike termites which are not seen until damage has progressed, carpenter ants make their presence known so that most people deal with the problem before damage becomes a major issue.
How we will treat your carpenter ant problem:
We use a fully integrated approach to control including inspection, identification, recommendations to you for structural and cultural measures that will aid in control, and the proper treatment as indicated.
- Exterior: This is the first line of defense. We apply a low hazard residual spray such as Termidor (TM) to the foundation and other areas where ants are traveling or are expected to travel. This material has a great transfer effect. Ants that cross over treated areas will pick up microscopic particles on their bodies and bring it back to the colony. When ants die in the colony, they’re used for food and because ants feed each other, the material is transferred throughout the colony.
- Interior: Our first choice is the use of gel, granular or liquid baits placed into cracks, crevices and voids out of the reach of children and pets. These baits can be very effective under most conditions; however, because it takes time for the ants to actually ingest it, control may take some time for using this method alone.
If the homeowner wishes a quicker knockdown of existing ants, a spot treatment to critical areas with a low hazard residual spray may be suggested in addition to or in place of the baits described above. Children and pets need be kept away from treated areas during treatment and until dry, usually not more than 1-2 hours.
- Structural and cultural methods to aid in control:
Cut back any vegetation touching the structure, keep gutters clean, repair any leaks and rotten wood, move wood piles at least 20 feet away from the structure and keep mulch/earth from touching wood at the base of the structure. (All of these precautions are helpful in reducing the risk of termites as well.)
If you have a problem with carpenter ants, we will stop them, and we will come back after 4 weeks if you see any more. Call any time for a quote for service.
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