Carpenter Ants Removal: Identifying and Treating Infestations Effectively

Carpenter ants are sizable insects, growing to lengths of 1/4 to 1/2 inch. They are black, reddish-black, or brown in color and are most active at night. While they prefer damp or decaying wood for their nests, they can also target sound wood, making their infestations a serious concern.



These ants don't eat wood but hollow it out to create smooth tunnels for their colonies. Over time, this excavation weakens wooden structures and can lead to costly repairs.

1. Spotting Worker Ants

The most obvious sign of an infestation is the presence of large black or reddish-black ants indoors, especially near wooden structures. Carpenter ants are often mistaken for regular ants due to their size, but their segmented bodies and bent antennae distinguish them.

2. Frass (Wood Shavings)

As carpenter ants hollow out wood, they push out debris called frass. This material resembles sawdust and may include bits of insulation or other materials. Look for frass near wooden beams, window sills, or baseboards.

3. Rustling Noises

You might hear faint rustling noises coming from your walls or wooden furniture. This sound is caused by the ants moving through the tunnels they’ve carved out.

4. Swarmers

Reproductive carpenter ants, or swarmers, have wings and emerge in the spring. If you notice winged ants indoors, it's a sign of an established colony.

5. Damaged Wood

Inspect wooden structures for hollow sounds when tapped or visible damage on the surface. If wood crumbles easily, it could indicate carpenter ant activity.

Carpenter ants are drawn to moist and decaying wood. Leaks, poor ventilation, or water damage create the perfect environment for these pests. Piles of firewood, tree stumps, and untreated wooden structures outdoors can also attract them. Once established near your home, they may venture indoors in search of food and better nesting sites.

1. Locating the Nest

The first step in carpenter ants removal is finding their nest. Begin by following the trail of worker ants. They often lead to a hidden nest indoors or outdoors.

2. Eliminating Moisture Sources

Repair leaks and address water damage to make your home less appealing to carpenter ants. Maintain adequate ventilation in crawl spaces, attics, and basements.

3. Using Baits

Baiting is an effective strategy for ants removal. Carpenter ants carry bait back to their nest, eliminating the colony over time. Use bait products labeled for carpenter ants and place them along ant trails.

4. Applying Insecticides

Residual insecticides can be applied around entry points, cracks, and crevices to kill ants on contact. Be cautious when using insecticides, especially in homes with children or pets.

5. Professional Ant Control Services

For severe infestations, it’s best to hire professionals. Experts like No More Pests Control, LLC in Queens, NY, have the knowledge and tools to locate and eliminate carpenter ant colonies effectively.

At No More Pests Control, LLC, we specialize in safe and thorough ants removal services tailored to your needs. Our team in Queens, NY, understands how to pinpoint the source of infestations and use environmentally responsible methods to eliminate them.

Here’s what sets us apart:

• Experienced Technicians: Our professionals are trained to handle even the most stubborn carpenter ant infestations.
• Customized Solutions: We assess your property and develop a targeted plan for effective removal.
• Long-Term Prevention: We not only remove ants but also provide tips to keep them from returning.
• Affordable Rates: High-quality pest control doesn’t have to break the bank.