What Types of Damage are Caused By Carpenter Ants?

Damage to Structures

Although carpenter ants are classified as wood-destroying insects, they differ from termites in that they do not consume wood as food. Unlike termites, ants lack the necessary bacteria in their digestive systems to break down wood fibers. Instead, the term "carpenter" in carpenter ants describes their behavior of chewing and tunneling through wood to construct and expand their nests, creating smooth passageways known as "galleries."

Early detection of carpenter ant infestations is crucial. These ants are attracted to water-damaged, decaying, and mold-infested wood, as it offers less resistance for tunneling. They may also inhabit wood previously damaged by termites. However, they can also invade dry, undamaged wood within homes, posing a risk of property and structural damage. Prompt identification and treatment of carpenter ant infestations are essential to prevent further damage to your property. Professional pest control services can assist in locating and effectively addressing carpenter ant colonies to safeguard your home.

Tree Damage

Carpenter ants can pose a threat to urban shade trees, as evidenced by a study in New Jersey where 75% of such trees were found to be infested. Among these, silver maple trees were most commonly affected. These ants capitalize on existing weaknesses in trees, such as soft or weakened wood caused by insects, diseases, or drought conditions, to establish their colonies. While they do not cause the initial decay, carpenter ants exploit the opportunity presented by the compromised wood to inhabit the tree.

It's important to note that carpenter ants typically infest trees already affected by wood decay, and their presence does not further harm the tree. However, if there are signs that ants from tree colonies are entering nearby homes, intervention may be necessary. Treating the trees themselves carries the risk of causing the ants to migrate to other locations, potentially including nearby homes.

In cases where carpenter ants are found in trees, it's often best to refrain from treatment and instead focus on implementing perimeter treatments around homes to prevent ants from entering indoor spaces. Professional pest control services can assist in implementing effective perimeter treatments to keep carpenter ants where they belong - outside, away from residential structures.

Do you have an issue with carpenter ants in Edison, Somerset, Lakewood, Millstone Township, Colts Neck, Little Silver, Sayreville, Howell or nearby New Jersey? Contact the pest control professionals at Cowleys Pest Services for a free service estimate.

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