Carpenter ants are no ordinary type of ant. They get their name from their ability to get into your wood. Moreover, these types of ants tend to be located in cool, wet climates like in Central Connecticut. If your home or business has been infested with carpenter ants, the ant control pros at Total Pest Control, LLC are ready to do a thorough job at removal. We are proud to provide prompt and effective ant control services to clients throughout Southington, Bristol, Cheshire, Farmington, Prospect, Waterbury, CT, and all of Central Connecticut.

Contact us today to schedule a service!

Total Pest Control has techs with over 35 years of industry experience. Call our office at 860-577-0400 or  reach out here online  today and get an estimate.

Understanding the Risks of Carpenter Ant Infestations

Here are three key risks associated with having carpenter ants in your home:

• Property Damage: Unlike termites that eat wood, carpenter ants excavate galleries within it to build their nests. Over time, this can weaken the structural integrity of wooden components such as beams, walls, and furniture. This can lead to costly repairs and compromise the safety of your home.
• Food Contamination: Carpenter ants, like other ants, are attracted to food sources in your home. They can contaminate your food by crawling over it and leaving behind bacteria and other pathogens. This can pose health risks if anyone eats the contaminated food. 
• Bites: While carpenter ants do not typically bite humans, they can do so if they feel threatened or cornered. Although their bites are not usually as painful or dangerous as those from other insects, like bees or wasps, they can still cause discomfort, swelling, and allergic reactions.

Being aware of these risks and taking proactive steps to address the infestation can help protect your property, health, and overall well-being. 

Effective Tips for Preventing Carpenter Ants

There are several effective means of prevention that you can employ. 

Some prominent tools of prevention are these: 

• Use a dehumidifier: Carpenter ants are attracted to moisture, so reducing humidity levels in your home can deter them. Focus on areas prone to dampness, such as basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms. Maintaining optimal humidity levels creates an environment less conducive to carpenter ant activity.
• Trim tree branches and shrubs: Carpenter ants often enter homes by accessing branches or shrubs that touch the exterior walls. Regularly trim tree branches and shrubs to prevent this, keeping them at least a few feet away from your home. This reduces the chances of carpenter ants using these natural pathways to gain entry into your property.
• Caulking the cracks: Sealing cracks and gaps in your home's foundation, walls, windows, and doors with caulking is an effective way to prevent carpenter ants from entering. These tiny openings serve as entry points for the ants, so sealing them off denies them access. Regularly inspect your home for any visible cracks or gaps and promptly fill them in.
• Store wood away from the house: Carpenter ants are drawn to wood, so it's important to keep firewood, lumber, and other wooden materials stored away from your home. When storing wood, ensure it is elevated off the ground and kept in a dry area. 

Remember to regularly inspect and maintain your property, addressing any issues promptly. If you suspect you have an infestation, don’t waste time having us take a look. 

Peace of Mind with Professional Carpenter Ant Removal

As a homeowner, you don’t need to be concerned over what’s going on with the ants buried away in the back of your mind. A professional and thorough removal can set your mind at ease.

As a locally owned and operated business, Total Pest Control takes great pride in the quality of our work, the efficiency with which we do it, and the affordability of our pricing. We’re proud of the good reputation we’ve earned with customers and are determined to deliver you that same type of service. 

What are the signs of a carpenter ant infestation in my home?

Identifying a carpenter ant infestation early can save you from significant property damage. Look for signs such as the presence of large black or red ants, especially in the evening when they are most active. You may also notice wood shavings or sawdust near wooden structures, which indicates that the ants are excavating galleries. Also, if you hear rustling noises within your walls or ceilings, it could be a sign of carpenter ants nesting inside.

Preventing carpenter ants requires a combination of strategies. Start by reducing moisture levels in your home, as these ants are attracted to damp environments. Use a dehumidifier in basements and crawl spaces. Also, keep tree branches and shrubs trimmed away from your home to eliminate natural pathways for the ants. Sealing cracks and gaps in your foundation and walls with caulking is also crucial. Lastly, store firewood and other wooden materials away from your home to deter these pests from nesting nearby.

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