Signs of Carpenter Ants in Your House
Carpenter ants are a common pest in Plano, TX, and can cause significant damage to your home if left untreated. Understanding the signs of an infestation is crucial to protecting your property. Here’s what you need to know:
Recognizing Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants are larger than most ants, ranging from 1/4 to 1/2 inch in length. They are usually black but can also be red or a combination of both colors. Unlike termites, they do not eat wood but excavate it to create nests, which can weaken the structural integrity of your home.
Common Signs of Infestation
- Sawdust Piles: Carpenter ants create smooth tunnels and galleries in wood, pushing out wood shavings, which resemble sawdust, known as “frass.” Look for these piles near wooden structures or along the edges of floors.
- Rustling Noises: If you hear faint rustling sounds inside walls or wooden structures, it could be carpenter ants at work, especially at night when they are most active.
- Winged Ants: During mating season, you might see winged carpenter ants emerging from walls or ceilings. These are reproductive ants looking to establish new colonies.
- Visible Ant Trails: Carpenter ants often travel in well-defined trails between their nest and food sources. You may notice these trails along your foundation, walls, or even electrical wires.
- Hollow-Sounding Wood: Tap on wooden structures; if they sound hollow, carpenter ants may have excavated tunnels inside.
Conducive Conditions in Plano
Plano’s climate provides an ideal environment for carpenter ants. Warm temperatures and occasional humidity create perfect conditions for them to thrive. They often seek out moisture-damaged wood, which is easier to excavate, so it’s essential to repair any water leaks or damaged wood promptly.
Cost of Carpenter Ant Control in Plano
Preferred Pest Management offers comprehensive pest control services to tackle carpenter ant infestations. Prices for our services in Plano range from $89 to $199, depending on the size of your home and the severity of the infestation. Our services include a thorough inspection, treatment, and follow-up to ensure complete eradication.
Why Choose Preferred Pest Management
Preferred Pest Management has received numerous awards for our exceptional pest control services in Plano, TX. With over 115 five-star reviews on Google, our reputation speaks for itself. We provide a preferred pest protection service plan that covers over 25 pests, including carpenter ants, ensuring your home remains pest-free year-round.
Preventing Carpenter Ant Infestations
To prevent future infestations, follow these tips:
- Eliminate Moisture: Fix leaks and ensure proper drainage around your home.
- Seal Entry Points: Close gaps around windows, doors, and foundations.
- Trim Vegetation: Keep tree branches and shrubs away from your home to reduce access points.
- Store Wood Properly: Keep firewood and building materials away from your home’s foundation.
Conclusion
Carpenter ants can cause serious damage if left unchecked. By recognizing the signs of an infestation and taking preventative measures, you can protect your home. For expert assistance, contact Preferred Pest Management. Our experienced team will ensure your carpenter ant problem is resolved quickly and effectively.
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