What Can A Homeowner Do To Prevent Carpenter Ant Infestations?

At the top of the list is eliminating sources of moisture. In all likelihood, if a home has a carpenter ant problem, it usually has a water-related problem as well that has caused decaying or mold-infested wood that has attracted the ants.

Nests are commonly found:

• behind bathroom tiles
• around tubs, sinks, showers, and dishwashers
• under roofing, in attic beams
• under subfloor insulation
• in foam insulation.  

To effectively control carpenter ants over the long term, it's essential to locate and eradicate their nests, replace any damaged or decayed wood, and address underlying moisture issues. Without addressing these factors, re-infestation is likely to occur, leading to ongoing problems for homeowners. When dealing with any pest issue, the homeowner's primary goal should be to implement necessary changes to minimize the risk of re-infestation and mitigate its severity if it does occur. A pest control professional can collaborate with homeowners to identify and implement these changes effectively. Ultimately, prevention is the key to managing carpenter ant infestations successfully. Some of the key areas are to:

• Replace any moisture-damaged wood in your home.
• Store wood or lumber in a garage or near the house so that it is kept dry and, if possible, elevated and off the ground to allow air circulation.
• Store firewood as far from buildings as possible and keep it dry. Inspect any firewood for ants before bringing it into the house.
• Remove tree and shrub stumps and roots; leaving them to rot is an open invitation for these pests.
• Trim branches that overhang the home or touch electrical wires connected to the house.
• Seal cracks or small openings near the base of your home.
• Remove water sources and moisture in and around your home.

Finally, landscaping must be done with an eye toward minimizing the possible nesting sites of the ants. Piles of decorative bark are one of the prime sources for carpenter ant colonies and, even though it may be aesthetically attractive, it must be kept at a minimum for at-risk homes on wooded lots. Stacking firewood against a home is always a bad idea and can lead to problems. If the wood happens to be infested, the home will be infested. Firewood should be stacked away from the house in a shelter to keep it dry.

By being proactive in caring for one’s home and surrounding property, homeowners can take important steps that will significantly reduce the likelihood of a carpenter ant infestation. But if there is a carpenter ant infestation, contact a pest control professional immediately. Otherwise, the colony will continue to expand and cause even more damage. A licensed, reputable, experienced pest control operator can handle the infestation quickly and cost-effectively.

For service in Somerset, Edison, Lakewood, Toms River, Brick, Bridgewater, Piscataway, Old Bridge, Middletown, Princeton Junction and nearby New Jersey, contact Cowleys Pest Services.

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