Ants are industrious creatures that have existed since dinosaurs populated the planet. Ant queens live up to 30 years. The rugged insect may be able to lift as much as 5000 times its body weight according to a new study. There are an estimated 10 quadrillion ants currently inhabiting Earth. When an infestation starts it will feel as if their entire population is marching through the home. The reality is, no one wants to donate their home to the critters no matter how admirable and amazing they may be.
Carpenter Ants in Jackson NJ are often mistakenly identified as termites. This mistake is natural because they do share a similar appearance and a love for chewing wood. A carpenter ant, unlike a termite, only chews wood rather than eating it. This is a small consolation to a homeowner that finds lengthy tunnels hollowed out of their support beams. The ants become attracted to damaged wood because it is easy to chew through and create a nest for their colony. More ants arrive once a tunnel is formed and more wood is removed for their access. It is a process that happens quickly and quietly and a few small piles of sawdust beside a wall may be the only sign of their existence.
Homeowners that want to protect their property from Carpenter Ants in Jackson NJ need to learn how to identify an infestation and how to make a home less appealing to the ants.
Discouraging Ant Infestations
• Direct water away from homes with gutters and drains.
• Remove and replace any damaged wood.
• Keep yards clean of all debris.
• Clean up dead insects in basements and attics. This is a food source for carpenter ants.
• Do not allow tree branches to touch or overhang the house.
Identifying an Infestation
• Look for any sawdust or wood shavings near walls or windows.
• Inspect the exterior perimeter of the home for ants.
• Listen to sounds within the walls. A rustling sound is often heard outside of ant colonies. It is probably ants if the noise increases after tapping on the wall.
A home pest inspection is the only way to know for certain if carpenter ants are infecting a house. An inspection will verify the type of pest and the extent of the damage it has left behind. Click Here to schedule an inspection or for more information about carpenter ants or other common pests.
