What does borax do to ants?

Pest control companies typically use a combination of methods to control carpenter ants, depending on the severity of the infestation. The most common methods include insecticide sprays, dusts, baits, and traps. Insecticide sprays and dusts are applied directly to the areas where carpenter ants are present, such as in wall voids, cracks, or crevices. Baits are used to attract ants and contain a slow-acting poison that the ants carry back to their colony, which can help eliminate the entire nest. Traps can also be used to capture and remove carpenter ants. A professional pest control company can determine the most effective treatment plan for your specific carpenter ant problem.

It is worth getting an exterminator for ants because they can become a nuisance and contaminate your food. Ants are one of the most common household pests, and there are many different species of ants. If you have an ant problem, it is important to identify the type of ant so that you can find the best way to get rid of them.

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 do not hibernate in the winter, but they will slow down their activity level as the weather gets colder. Ants are most active in the spring and summer when they are searching for food and water to sustain their nests. If you see carpenter ants on your property in the winter, it’s a good indication that there is an infestation.

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.