How to Get Rid of Carpenter Ants in Massachusetts

Carpenter ants are common throughout the United States, but New England’s coastal climate particularly appeals to carpenter ants. In spite of their name, these insects are far more likely to damage your home than to build you a new one. Carpenter ants can quickly cause damage that can be expensive and even dangerous, so if you’re battling a carpenter ant infestation in your home, you’re probably wondering what can be done. Here’s how to get rid of carpenter ants in Bridgewater.

Why Are Carpenter Ants Inside My House?

In order to get rid of carpenter ants, it’s important to know why they’re in your home. Much of the time, a carpenter ant problem is related to a moisture issue, as they are attracted to damp or damaged wood. Contrary to popular belief, carpenter ants do not eat the wood they excavate, like termites; rather, they dig to build tunnels and nests for the colony. Because they are not consuming wood, these ants will also be drawn to your home by food sources such as crumbs, trash, grease residue, fruits and juices, and even pet food.

How to Get Rid of Carpenter Ants

Simply put, to avoid a problem with carpenter ants, you must remove the conditions that are attracting them. Here are some DIY measures you can take to make your home less appealing to carpenter ants.

Limit moisture. Inspect for and repair plumbing leaks and replace damaged wood when you find it. Next, eliminate sources of damaged wood outside, like dying trees or rotting stumps.

Restrict access. Keep tree branches trimmed back from your home and avoid storing firewood near your foundation. Seal cracks and small openings around your foundation and make sure doors and windows close securely and all screens are intact.

Remove food sources. Keep counters, floors, and other contact surfaces clean. Seal food in airtight containers, including pet food. Cover trash cans and take garbage out regularly.

Call the Experts for Carpenter Ant Control in Massachusetts

While these methods can help to prevent carpenter ants from coming inside, if they’re already in your house, it’s time to call the professionals. Effectively eliminating carpenter ants is a science that requires finding the source, identifying conducive conditions, and having the right products to rectify the problem and eliminate nests.

Call the Burgess Pest team for a free estimate today, and let us take over before the carpenter ants do.