Watch Out for Carpenter Ants in North Georgia: What You Need to Know
As spring turns to summer in North Georgia, homeowners start to notice more than just blooming flowers and longer days—they often begin seeing signs of unwanted visitors: carpenter ants.
At Canton Termite and Pest Control, we’ve helped countless North Georgia families deal with carpenter ant infestations, and we want to make sure you know the signs, the risks, and the solutions.
What Are Carpenter Ants?
Carpenter ants are one of the most common structural pests in our area. Unlike termites, which eat wood, carpenter ants excavate it to build their nests. They prefer moist or decaying wood, which makes older homes, crawl spaces, and even tree stumps around your property vulnerable targets.
These ants are typically black or reddish-black and can range from ¼ to ½ inch in length. They’re most active during the warmer months, especially after sunset when they leave the nest to forage for food.
Signs You Might Have a Carpenter Ant Problem
Carpenter ants can be sneaky. You might not see them often, but here are a few signs that could indicate a problem:
- Sawdust-like material (frass): This is pushed out of their tunnels and usually found in piles beneath wooden structures or furniture.
- Faint rustling sounds in walls or hollow doors.
- Winged ants indoors: Often mistaken for termites, these reproductive ants indicate a mature colony.
- Visible ants foraging in kitchens, bathrooms, or along exterior walls.
Why Carpenter Ants Are a Problem
While carpenter ants don’t eat wood like termites do, their excavation can cause significant structural damage over time. Left unchecked, they can weaken beams, joists, and other critical parts of your home. The longer a colony remains hidden, the more costly the repairs.
What You Can Do
- Eliminate moisture problems – Repair leaks and improve ventilation in crawl spaces, basements, and attics.
- Seal cracks and entry points – Use caulk or foam to block off access to the interior of your home.
- Remove wood debris – Don’t stack firewood near the house and get rid of tree stumps or fallen limbs.
How Canton Termite and Pest Control Can Help
Our team has decades of experience identifying and treating carpenter ant infestations in Cherokee County and the surrounding North Georgia area. We start with a comprehensive inspection to locate nests and assess the extent of the problem. From there, we develop a custom treatment plan to not only eliminate the current colony but help prevent future issues.
If you suspect carpenter ants are in or around your home, don’t wait. The sooner you act, the less damage they’ll cause.
Contact Canton Termite and Pest Control today for a free estimate and let us help you keep your home safe, strong, and pest-free.
📞 770-479-1598
