3 Dangers of Finding Carpenter Ants in Your Home

February 22, 2023

Finding evidence of pests in your home can be alarming, but some unwanted visitors are more worrisome than others. Carpenter ants eat and chew through wood, leaving behind shavings and dust, while wreaking havoc on your home. The possible dangers don't stop there, which is why it's important to call an exterminator as soon as you notice wood shavings, rustling sounds, or any large ants crawling around. To encourage action against these pests, here's a helpful list of some of their most noticeable impacts.


Why Are Carpenter Ants Dangerous? 

1. Affect the Home's Structure 

Similar to any other pest, carpenter ants' main job is to seek shelter, and their home of choice is in the holes and tunnels they burrow into wood. They primarily prey upon soft, rotting, or otherwise compromised wood, which makes your home particularly susceptible after heavy rain or if there's already structural damage present. From there, carpenter ants gnaw, burrow, and eat their way through solid and healthy lumber, which can further deteriorate a home. 


2. Consume Food

Unlike termites, carpenter ants don't survive off the wood they chew. Their bodies aren't able to process the glucose, which means that while they make themselves comfortable in your home, they'll be also be looking for food. They're particularly interested in fruit, meat, and juice, but their trail of wood shavings and general presence can contaminate your food, even if they're not picking away at it. 


3. Bite

If carpenter ants are able to burrow into your home, the structural damage comes with the risk of injury. Weak floor boards, walls, and other components can make living in your home precarious, dangerous, and uncomfortable. Carpenter ants can also bite, leaving itchy and burning bumps behind. 


The pest control technicians at family-owned Target Pest Control in Rochester, NY, have the equipment and training to keep carpenter ants and other insects out of your house. For two decades, the fully licensed and insured crew has helped homeowners in Monroe County avoid property damage, health problems, and other issues caused by pest infestations. Read customer reviews online and call (585) 427-7175 for a free estimate in the Monroe County area and learn about service warranties. 

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