Wood-Destroying Ants

Serving Chicago Illinois and Indiana

While most ants pose no threat greater than simply being a nuisance, there are certain types of ants that you need to be a little more careful about. Namely, wood-destroying ants. These ants are known for constructing nests in forested areas or, alternatively, infesting wood in people’s homes. One of the most common is the carpenter ant, which is known for its destruction of wooden structures and materials. Although they don’t eat wood (unlike termites), they can still cause serious damage by continually excavating within a wooden structure. At Anderson Pest Solutions, we are committed to helping our customers learn about the dangers of wood ants in the midwest. 

What Are Wood Ants?

These ants encompass a wide range of ants that either nest using wooden materials or within wood structures themselves. Indoors, wood-destroying ants prefer damp, hollow spaces between walls and floors. Certain areas of a home can be especially vulnerable to damage, including window-sills, porches, and roof eaves. Some of the most common types of wood ants are as follows:

1. Carpenter ants. These ants prefer to nest in damp, decaying wood. Colonies can frequently be found outdoors in dead tree trunks and fallen limbs. These ants are often confused for termites.
2. Field ants. These ants are known for building nests and mounds in woodland areas. These nests are constructed with twigs, stems, and conifer needles. They typically do not infest homes.

Dangers of Wood-Destroying Ants

Wood ant damage can be significant if the infestation works undisturbed for some time. Compared to termites, the damage is not as significant—but still enough to warrant professional ant extermination services. Carpenter ant wood damage is the most worrisome. These ants are considered both predators and scavengers, eating other dead insects but also sugary liquids. This makes them twice as problematic, as they can find potential food sources in multiple ways. The best way to prevent carpenter ants from nesting in a home is to make sure all dead insects and food particles are cleaned immediately, especially in cracks or hidden corners. Whenever you think you have a dangerous ant problem, it’s best to contact your local professionals for help.

How to Get Rid of Carpenter & Other Dangerous Ants

The easiest way to avoid a wood-destroying ant infestation is to make sure any leaks, drips, or water damage is repaired immediately, as the damp conditions can encourage a carpenter ant invasion. Some other things you can do to help prevent these ants is by removing lawn debris and dead trees and by eliminating all insect matter and food particles. However, if you already have an infestation on your hands, it’s imperative to contact your local pest control experts for assistance. At Anderson Pest Solutions, our ant exterminators will work to eliminate the infestation and ensure the ants do not return. Contact us today to learn more!

<< Back to Ant Exterminator Services