How do I permanently get rid of an ant infestation?

Carpenter ants are wood-destroying insects, but unlike termites, they do not consume wood. Instead, they excavate it to create nests and tunnels. Here’s how you can identify the presence of carpenter ants in your walls:

1. Sawdust Piles: One of the most evident signs is the presence of fine sawdust-like material, called “frass,” near baseboards, door jambs, or window sills. As carpenter ants tunnel through wood, they create frass, which they kick out of their nests.
2. Faint Rustling Noises: If you have a significant infestation, you may be able to hear a faint rustling or clicking noise when you place your ear against the walls. The sound is the result of the ants moving and chewing through the wood.
3. Visible Damage: While often hidden, if you have exposed wood or are doing renovations, you might notice smooth, clean galleries in the wood. This is different from termite damage, which often has a muddy or dirty appearance because termites bring soil into the wood.
4. Ant Activity: Spotting large black ants, especially in significant numbers, can be an indication. Carpenter ant workers and foragers can be seen going about their tasks. Finding winged ants indoors, especially during spring, is another sign of a potential nest within the structure. These winged ants are swarmers looking to start new colonies.
5. Trailing: Carpenter ants typically have a main nest outside and may establish satellite nests inside structures. Observing ants moving in a trail, especially from your home towards an outside area, can be an indication of this behavior.
6. Moisture Issues: Carpenter ants prefer damp or decaying wood to set up their nests. If there are areas in your home prone to moisture, such as leaky roofs or pipes, it increases the chance of a carpenter ant infestation.

If you suspect carpenter ants are in your walls, it’s essential to act swiftly. Over time, their tunneling can cause structural damage. It’s often advisable to consult with a pest control professional who can assess the extent of the infestation and recommend the best treatment options.

Carpenter ants are attracted to sweet foods and moisture. If you see a carpenter ant on your property, it’s likely that there is a food source nearby that is attracting them. Check for things like spilled sugar or open containers of fruit juice. You should also check for moisture sources like leaks or standing water.

Dealing with an ant infestation can be challenging, but several natural methods can effectively kill ants. These techniques range from household items to simple mixtures you can prepare. However, it’s important to use them cautiously, especially in areas where they might affect other living things, like plants and animals. Here are four natural methods to kill ants:

1. Borax and Sugar Bait: Mix borax with sugar and water to create a sweet and poisonous bait for ants. The sugar attracts the ants, and the borax fatally poisons them. Keep this mixture away from children and pets.
2. Diatomaceous Earth (Food Grade): Sprinkling food-grade diatomaceous earth in areas where ants are present can be highly effective. It works by dehydrating the ants as they come into contact with the powder. This method is safe around humans and pets.
3. Boiling Water: Pouring boiling water directly into ant nests can be a swift way to kill a large number of ants. However, be aware that boiling water can also kill plants and grass in the surrounding area.
4. Soapy Water: A solution of soap and water can be lethal to ants by breaking down their protective exoskeleton, leading to dehydration and death. Spray it directly on ants or their trails.

While these methods can effectively reduce ant populations, they should be part of a comprehensive approach to ant control, including keeping your home clean and free of food scraps, sealing entry points, and addressing moisture issues.

The cost of carpenter ant removal depends on the size and severity of the infestation. A professional exterminator like Birch Fumigators can give you a free consultation to assess the situation and provide a quote. Contact us today to book your appointment.

Borax is a white crystalline powder that is used as a household cleaner, ant killer, and laundry booster. It is also effective in treating fleas and lice on pets. When mixed with sugar, borax makes an effective bait for killing ants. However, we don’t recommend that you use poisons to kill ants without professional guidance. If you’re using borax as an ant bait, be sure to put it in a place where children and pets can’t reach it. You should also avoid inhaling the powder or getting it in your eyes.

Yes, Birch Fumigators offers carpenter ant pest control in Beaumont. We have a team of experienced and certified exterminators who can assess the situation and determine the best course of action. Contact us today to book your free consultation.