skip to main content
How To Handle Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are not just an ordinary pest—they are a serious threat to the structural integrity of homes and businesses. 

Found across the United States and particularly common in North Carolina, carpenter ants tunnel through wooden structures, hollowing out beams, joists, and walls as they create nests for their colonies. Over time, these activities can compromise the safety of homes and lead to costly repairs.

 

Unlike termites, which consume wood, carpenter ants excavate it to create galleries for their nests. While they work more slowly than termites, their damage can be just as destructive. 

Without intervention, a carpenter ant infestation can result in significant structural damage, making it essential for homeowners to understand the signs of an infestation, how to eliminate these pests, and how to prevent them from returning.

In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the biology and behavior of carpenter ants, their presence in North Carolina, how to identify an infestation, the types of damage they cause, and both DIY and professional strategies to get rid of them for good.

I) What Are Carpenter Ants?

Carpenter ants belong to the genus Camponotus, a diverse group of ants with over 1,000 species found worldwide. They are one of the largest types of ants, and they get their name from their habit of building nests in wood by excavating tunnels. These tunnels, called galleries, are smooth and polished, reflecting the meticulous work of the ants. While they do not eat the wood, their excavation can severely weaken structures.

The Role of Carpenter Ants in the Ecosystem

In the wild, carpenter ants serve an important role in breaking down dead or decaying wood. By nesting in dead trees, stumps, and logs, they help accelerate the decomposition process. This recycling of organic material is essential for forest ecosystems, as it returns nutrients to the soil and promotes plant growth.

However, when carpenter ants invade homes and other man-made structures, their wood-excavating behavior turns from beneficial to destructive. Instead of rotting trees, they target homes, garages, sheds, and other wooden buildings. Their tunneling weakens beams and supports, causing significant damage over time if left unchecked.

II) Common Species of Carpenter Ants in North Carolina

Several species of carpenter ants are commonly found throughout North Carolina. The two most prominent species that invade homes are:

  • Camponotus pennsylvanicus (Black Carpenter Ant): The most common carpenter ant species in North Carolina, this species is entirely black and one of the largest, with workers measuring up to 1/2 inch long.
  • Camponotus floridanus (Florida Carpenter Ant): This species is more common in the southern regions of the state. It is reddish-brown and slightly smaller than the black carpenter ant.

Both species have similar nesting habits and can cause significant damage to homes, especially those with moisture problems.

Physical Characteristics of Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are larger than most other types of household ants, making them easier to identify. In addition to their size, here are some physical characteristics that help distinguish carpenter ants from other ants:

  • Size: Adult worker ants typically range from 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch in length.
  • Color: Depending on the species, carpenter ants can be black, reddish-brown, or a combination of both colors.
  • Body Shape: Carpenter ants have a distinctive narrow waist with an elbowed antenna, and they possess a smooth, evenly rounded thorax.
  • Wings: Winged reproductive ants, also called alates, are larger than workers and possess two pairs of wings. The front wings are longer than the back wings, distinguishing them from winged termites, which have wings of equal length.

Carpenter ants are often confused with termites, particularly when the winged reproductive ants swarm in the spring. It’s important to know the differences between the two pests to ensure proper treatment.

III) Carpenter Ants vs. Termites: Key Differences

Though both carpenter ants and termites can cause damage to wood, they do so in very different ways. Misidentifying these pests can lead to ineffective treatments, so it’s crucial to understand the distinctions between the two.

1. Feeding Habits

  • Carpenter Ants: Carpenter ants do not eat wood. Instead, they remove wood to create tunnels and galleries for their nests. They feed on a wide variety of food sources, including insects, honeydew from aphids, sweets, proteins, and other household food scraps.
  • Termites: Termites consume wood as their primary food source. They eat the cellulose found in wood, which they break down with the help of symbiotic microorganisms in their digestive systems.

2. Damage Patterns

  • Carpenter Ants: The damage caused by carpenter ants is clean and smooth. They hollow out wood, leaving behind smooth, polished galleries. You may also find frass, a byproduct of their tunneling that resembles sawdust, near their nest entrances.
  • Termites: Termites eat wood from the inside out, leaving rough, uneven galleries filled with mud or soil. The presence of mud tubes is a clear indicator of a termite infestation.

3. Appearance and Behavior

  • Carpenter Ants: As mentioned earlier, carpenter ants are large, typically black or reddish-brown, and have a pinched waist and elbowed antennae. Winged reproductive ants have two pairs of wings, with the front wings longer than the back wings. Carpenter ants are most active at night and prefer to forage for food under cover of darkness.
  • Termites: Termites have straight antennae, a thick waist, and wings of equal length. Unlike carpenter ants, termites are pale in color and can appear translucent. Termites are active 24/7, feeding continuously throughout the day and night.

IV) The Lifecycle of Carpenter Ants

Understanding the life cycle of carpenter ants is critical to eliminating them and preventing their return. Like other insects, carpenter ants undergo complete metamorphosis, which includes four distinct stages: egg, larva, pupa, and adult.

1. Egg Stage

The queen carpenter ant lays eggs deep within the nest. The eggs are tiny, white, and oval-shaped, and they are usually laid in moist, decaying wood where they are protected from predators. A queen can lay thousands of eggs over her lifetime, and colonies can grow rapidly if left undisturbed.

2. Larval Stage

Once the eggs hatch, the larvae are fed and cared for by worker ants. The larvae are entirely dependent on the workers for food, which is regurgitated and fed to them. At this stage, the larvae are small, legless, and white, resembling tiny maggots.

3. Pupal Stage

After molting several times, the larvae spin cocoons and enter the pupal stage. Inside the cocoon, the larvae transform into adult ants. The pupal stage can last several weeks, depending on environmental factors such as temperature and food availability.

4. Adult Stage

Once the pupae emerge as adults, they assume different roles within the colony. There are three primary castes in a carpenter ant colony:

  1. Worker Ants: These ants are responsible for foraging for food, expanding the nest, and caring for the larvae and queen.
  2. Soldier Ants: Larger than worker ants, soldiers defend the colony from predators and help protect it from other ant species.
  3. Reproductive Ants (Alates): These winged ants are responsible for mating and establishing new colonies. During swarming events, usually in the spring, reproductive ants leave the nest to mate. After mating, the males die, and the fertilized queens fly off to establish new nests.

Carpenter ant colonies can grow quite large, with parent colonies housing thousands of ants and multiple satellite colonies spread throughout a home or property. Understanding the colony structure is important for effectively treating an infestation.

V) Why Are Carpenter Ants a Problem in North Carolina?

North Carolina’s warm, humid climate provides the perfect environment for carpenter ants to thrive. The combination of high humidity, frequent rainfall, and abundant wood sources makes homes in this region particularly vulnerable to infestations.

1. Humidity and Moisture Attract Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are especially attracted to wood that has been softened by moisture. In North Carolina, high humidity levels, particularly in the summer, create ideal conditions for carpenter ants to establish colonies. Homes with moisture issues—whether from leaking roofs, plumbing, or poor ventilation—are prime targets for infestation.

2. Common Areas of Excess Moisture in Homes

  • Attics and Roofs: Poorly ventilated attics and leaky roofs can trap moisture, creating ideal conditions for carpenter ants to nest.
  • Basements and Crawl Spaces: These areas are often damp due to poor ventilation, making them attractive to carpenter ants.
  • Bathrooms and Kitchens: Leaky pipes or poorly sealed sinks and bathtubs can cause wood to become moist and soft, providing easy access for carpenter ants.

3. Why Older Homes Are at Greater Risk for Carpenter Ants

Many homes in North Carolina are older and may have developed moisture problems over time. Wood that has been exposed to years of humidity and rainfall is more likely to be softened or decayed, making it easier for carpenter ants to tunnel through. Additionally, older homes may have outdated ventilation systems, which can trap moisture in attics, crawl spaces, and basements.

Homeowners in older homes should be especially vigilant about inspecting for signs of carpenter ant activity and addressing moisture issues promptly.

VI) How Carpenter Ants Damage Homes

Carpenter ants don’t eat wood, but their tunneling can still cause significant structural damage. As they create their nests, they hollow out wood, weakening beams, joists, and other structural components.

1. Carpenter Ants Can Do Structural Damage

The most common types of structural damage caused by carpenter ants include:

  • Weakened Roof Beams: Carpenter ants often target moisture-damaged roofs. Over time, their tunneling can weaken roof beams, causing the roof to sag or collapse.
  • Sagging Floors: Carpenter ants may nest in floor joists, particularly in basements or crawl spaces where moisture tends to accumulate. As they hollow out the wood, the floors may begin to sag or feel soft.
  • Cracked Walls: Carpenter ants can tunnel through wooden wall supports, leading to cracks in drywall or plaster. If the infestation is severe, walls may even begin to shift or bow.

2. Carpenter Ants Damage Outdoor Structures

In addition to damaging the interior of homes, carpenter ants can cause significant damage to outdoor structures, particularly wooden decks, fences, and porches. These structures are often exposed to the elements, making them vulnerable to moisture damage and, consequently, carpenter ant infestation.

  • Decks and Porches: Carpenter ants can tunnel through wooden decking, causing it to become unstable. In severe cases, the deck may become unsafe to walk on.
  • Fences: Wooden fences that have been damaged by moisture are prime targets for carpenter ants. Over time, the ants’ tunneling can weaken the fence, causing it to lean or collapse.

3. Carpenters Ants Damage Insulation and Electrical Systems

Carpenter ants are not limited to wood; they can also cause damage to insulation and electrical wiring in homes. As they expand their nests, they may tunnel through insulation materials such as foam or fiberglass, reducing the effectiveness of the insulation and increasing energy costs.

Additionally, carpenter ants may chew through electrical wiring, creating fire hazards or causing electrical malfunctions. If you notice flickering lights or other electrical issues, it’s important to have your home inspected for carpenter ants or other pests.

VII) Signs of a Carpenter Ant Infestation

Because carpenter ants are often hidden within walls, floors, or other wooden structures, identifying an infestation early can be difficult. However, there are several telltale signs that can help you detect their presence before significant damage occurs.

1. Visual Signs of Carpenter Ants

One of the most obvious signs of a carpenter ant infestation is the sight of the ants themselves. Carpenter ants are large, making them easier to spot than smaller household ants.

  • Winged Ants: The appearance of winged reproductive ants (alates) inside your home is a strong indicator of a carpenter ant infestation. These winged ants emerge during swarming events to mate and establish new colonies. If you see winged ants indoors, it’s likely that a mature colony is present nearby.
  • Foraging Workers: Carpenter ants typically forage for food at night, but they can also be seen during the day. If you notice large black or reddish-brown ants foraging in your kitchen, pantry, or around windows and doors, it may indicate the presence of a colony inside your home.

2. Other Signs of Carpenter Ant Activity

In addition to spotting the ants themselves, there are several other signs that can help you identify a carpenter ant infestation:

  • Frass: Carpenter ants create frass, a byproduct of their tunneling activity that resembles sawdust. You may find small piles of frass near baseboards, windowsills, or other wooden structures where the ants are nesting.
  • Rustling Noises: Carpenter ants are most active at night, and if they are nesting inside walls or wooden beams, you may hear faint rustling or scratching sounds as they move through their tunnels.
  • Hollow Wood: Tapping on a wooden beam or wall and hearing a hollow sound can indicate that carpenter ants have tunneled through the wood.

3. Common Areas for Carpenter Ant Infestations

Carpenter ants are attracted to moisture, so they tend to infest areas of the home where wood is more likely to be damp or decayed. Common areas for carpenter ant nests include:

  • Attics and Roofs: Poorly ventilated attics and leaky roofs provide ideal conditions for carpenter ants to establish nests. The moisture from leaks softens the wood, making it easier for the ants to tunnel through.
  • Basements and Crawl Spaces: These areas are often damp due to poor ventilation, making them attractive to carpenter ants. Floor joists, beams, and wooden supports in these areas are especially vulnerable to infestation.
  • Bathrooms and Kitchens: Leaky pipes, poorly sealed sinks, and bathtubs can cause wood to become moist, providing carpenter ants with easy access to nest-building sites.

How to Eliminate Carpenter Ants

Eliminating carpenter ants requires a combination of methods to effectively kill the colony and prevent further damage. While small infestations can sometimes be managed with DIY methods, larger infestations often require professional help.

Step 1: Locate the Nest

The first step in eliminating a carpenter ant infestation is to locate the nest. Carpenter ants often establish multiple satellite colonies in addition to the parent colony, so it’s important to identify all active nests. Look for signs of frass, follow foraging ants back to their nest, or listen for rustling sounds in walls or wooden beams.

Step 2: Use Carpenter Ant Baits

Ant baits are an effective way to kill carpenter ants, especially when the nest is hidden or difficult to access. Carpenter ant baits contain slow-acting insecticides that the ants will carry back to the nest, where the poison is distributed to the entire colony.

  • Liquid Baits: Liquid ant baits tend to work best for carpenter ants, as they mimic the moisture-rich environments that these ants prefer. The ants consume the liquid bait and bring it back to the nest to share with the other ants.
  • Gel Baits: Gel baits can be applied to cracks, crevices, and other entry points where carpenter ants are active. The ants will take the bait back to the nest, eventually killing the colony.

Step 3: Apply Insecticidal Dust

Insecticidal dust can be used to treat carpenter ant nests directly. The dust is applied to the nest entrance or inside wall voids where the ants are nesting. As the ants move through the dust, it clings to their bodies and eventually kills them. This method works best when the nest is accessible, such as in a wall void or crawl space.

Step 4: Repair Moisture Problems

Because carpenter ants are attracted to moisture-damaged wood, addressing moisture issues in your home is critical to preventing further infestations. Repair any leaks in your roof, plumbing, or foundation, and ensure that your home is properly ventilated to reduce humidity levels.

  • Fix Leaks: Leaky roofs, pipes, and windows can create moist conditions that attract carpenter ants. Repairing these leaks will help prevent future infestations.
  • Improve Ventilation: Proper ventilation in attics, basements, and crawl spaces can help reduce humidity and moisture buildup, making these areas less attractive to carpenter ants.

Step 5: Seal Entry Points

To prevent carpenter ants from entering your home, seal any cracks, gaps, or holes that could serve as entry points. Pay special attention to areas around windows, doors, and the foundation. Caulk or expanding foam can be used to close off these entry points.

VIII) Professional Treatment for Carpenter Ant Infestations

DIY methods may be effective for controlling carpenter ants and keeping them away from your home. Carpenter ants are notoriously difficult to eliminate, especially when they have established multiple satellite nests in hidden areas of the home.

Why Professional Treatment Is Necessary

  • Thorough Inspections: Pest control professionals have the tools and expertise to conduct thorough inspections of your home and identify all carpenter ant nests, including those hidden behind walls, in attics, or in other hard-to-reach areas.
  • Effective Products: Licensed pest control experts have access to stronger insecticides and baits that are more effective than over-the-counter products. These professional-grade treatments can eliminate entire colonies, including the parent and satellite nests.
  • Long-Term Monitoring: Professional pest control services often include ongoing monitoring and preventative treatments to ensure that carpenter ants do not return. This can include regular inspections, moisture control, and sealing entry points to keep ants out.

IX) Preventing Carpenter Ant Infestations

Once you’ve eliminated a carpenter ant infestation, it’s important to take steps to prevent the ants from returning. Carpenter ants are attracted to moisture and decaying wood, so addressing these issues will help keep them out of your home.

1. Moisture Control

Controlling moisture is one of the most effective ways to prevent carpenter ants from infesting your home. Since carpenter ants thrive in damp environments, reducing moisture levels in and around your home is key to keeping them at bay.

  • Fix Leaks: Repair any leaky pipes, faucets, or roof leaks that could lead to moisture buildup in your home.
  • Improve Ventilation: Make sure your attic, basement, and crawl spaces are properly ventilated to reduce humidity levels.
  • Use a Dehumidifier: If your home tends to be humid, consider using a dehumidifier to keep moisture levels under control.

2. Regular Home Maintenance

Maintaining your home’s exterior and interior can help prevent carpenter ants from gaining entry and nesting inside your walls or wooden structures.

  • Replace Damaged Wood: Remove and replace any wood that shows signs of rot or decay, especially in areas like decks, fences, and window frames.
  • Seal Cracks and Gaps: Caulk and seal cracks, gaps, and other openings around windows, doors, and the foundation of your home to prevent ants from entering.
  • Trim Vegetation: Keep trees and shrubs trimmed back from your home, as carpenter ants can use overhanging branches to enter your house.

3. Landscaping Tips

Landscaping can also play a role in preventing carpenter ant infestations. By maintaining your yard and removing potential nesting sites, you can reduce the likelihood of carpenter ants establishing colonies on your property.

  • Remove Dead Trees and Stumps: Dead trees, stumps, and fallen logs are prime nesting sites for carpenter ants. Removing them from your property reduces the risk of ants migrating into your home.
  • Store Firewood Away from the Home: Firewood is a favorite nesting site for carpenter ants. Store firewood at least 20 feet away from your home and elevate it off the ground to prevent carpenter ants from nesting in it.

Protecting Your Triangle Area Home from Carpenter Ants with Neuse Termite and Pest Control

Carpenter ants are a serious problem for homeowners, particularly in North Carolina, where the warm, humid climate provides the perfect environment for these pests to thrive. If left unchecked, carpenter ants can cause extensive damage to the structural integrity of your home, leading to costly repairs.

Early detection, prompt treatment, and preventative measures are key to protecting your home from these destructive pests. If you suspect that carpenter ants have infested your home, don’t wait until the damage is done—take action immediately.

At Neuse Termite and Pest Control, we specialize in eliminating carpenter ant infestations and protecting homes from future infestations. Our experienced technicians use the latest tools and techniques to identify and eliminate carpenter ant colonies, ensuring that your home remains safe and secure.

Contact Neuse Termite and Pest Control today to schedule an inspection and learn more about our carpenter ant control services. With our help, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home is protected from these damaging pests.



The Neuse Logo
The Neuse Termite and Pest Control, Inc. is a BBB Accredited Pest Control Company in Clayton, NC