Understanding the Damage Caused by Carpenter Ants

Understanding the Damage Caused by Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are often mistaken for termites because of their ability to damage wood, but they cause destruction in their own unique way. While they don’t eat wood, they hollow it out to build nests, which can weaken the structure of your home over time. Whether you live in Central or North Florida, it’s essential to recognize the signs of carpenter ant activity early to prevent long-term damage.

How Carpenter Ants Damage Your Property


Carpenter ants prefer moist or decaying wood for their nests, which means areas like attics, window frames, and wood piles are common targets. They chew through the wood to create smooth tunnels, leaving behind sawdust-like debris called frass. In both Central and North Florida, the humidity and frequent rain provide ideal conditions for carpenter ant infestations.


Signs of a Carpenter Ant Infestation


  • Sawdust Piles (Frass): Look for small piles of wood shavings near windows, doors, or wood structures.
  • Faint Rustling Sounds: You might hear faint noises inside walls as the ants tunnel through wood.
  • Winged Ants: The presence of winged carpenter ants inside your home often signals a mature colony.
  • Damaged Wood Structures: Softened or hollow-sounding wood can indicate nesting activity.


How to Prevent and Control Carpenter Ants


  • Remove Decaying Wood: Get rid of any rotting wood around your property to limit nesting sites.
  • Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for cracks or gaps that ants could use to enter.
  • Keep Wood Piles Away from the House: Store firewood at a safe distance to avoid attracting ants.
  • Schedule Regular Inspections: Professional pest control services can detect ant colonies early and prevent costly damage.


Carpenter ants can cause significant structural damage if left untreated. Identifying the signs early and taking action will protect your home from these destructive pests. Superior Spray offers expert pest control services in Central and North Florida to help you stay ahead of infestations.


Contact us today to schedule an inspection and keep carpenter ants at bay.


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