Carpenter Ants in North Texas

Carpenter Ants in North Texas

Spring season is here in North Texas, and that means carpenter ants are becoming active again. As a homeowner, what can you do to protect your home and your family?

The first and most important step is to get a professional inspection. Many inspections are free, and most homeowners simply do not have the experience or knowledge needed to properly identify and treat carpenter ant infestations. Trying to handle it as a DIY project can allow the problem to grow worse over time.

Signs of Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants often nest in or around windows, doors, and small openings in your home. One common sign is small piles of wood debris and dead ants outside the colony. It can look almost like a little “trash pile.”

You may also see carpenter ants foraging for food in your kitchen or pantry.

Unlike termites, carpenter ants do not eat wood, but they tunnel through damaged or moist wood to create their nests. Colonies can be located inside or outside the home.

They are especially attracted to moisture areas. I’ve personally seen carpenter ants come up from under kitchen sinks and nest in the wall behind them because of moisture issues.

Two Important Things You Can Do Right Now

1. Maintain your yard.
   Make sure bushes and tree branches are not touching your home. Trim back shrubs and keep at least 1–2 feet of space around the exterior perimeter of your house.
2. Get a professional perimeter treatment.
   A pest professional can apply a non-repellent treatment to the soil around your home. Moisture barriers and mulch beds can create the perfect environment for carpenter ants to thrive, so these areas should be treated properly.

Many store-bought products found at home improvement stores are not as effective, and most homeowners don’t apply them correctly.

If you have questions or think you may have carpenter ants, call or text me anytime.

Aaron – Texas Pest Elimination
📞 682-220-0045

Have a great spring and stay pest-free!