Content Updated: February 17th, 2025

If you've spotted large, black ants in or near your house along with small piles of what looks like sawdust, there's a chance you may have wood ants, also known as carpenter ants. Unlike termites, which eat wood, wood ants do not consume wood. However, wood ants in the house can still cause significant damage to wood framing, reducing the structural integrity of your home. Understanding how to get rid of wood ants is crucial to help protect your property from the potential damage they can cause.

wood ants on wood

What causes wood ants in my house?

Wood ants, such as red wood ants and silky ants, may be drawn to your home for food and shelter. These highly social species can form large colonies, with a single colony housing thousands of ants. They are attracted by food sources, especially sweets, and proteins found in spilled food, leftover drinks, or organic waste.

They can enter through cracks in walls, gaps around doors and windows, or by hitching a ride on firewood. Homes near wooded areas are especially risky, as wood ants typically nest in forest debris but invade indoor spaces when food or suitable conditions are present. If you have wood ants in your house, it’s essential to consider carpenter ant treatment from a professional immediately, as these pests can lead to significant issues if not addressed promptly.

How do I prevent wood ants?

The best way to get rid of wood ants is to prevent them from entering your home in the first place. Taking proactive measures can help save you from the hassle of dealing with an infestation later on. Here are several steps you can take to help prevent wood ants in your house:

  1. Seal entry points: Use caulk or weather stripping to close cracks in walls and gaps around windows and doors.

  2. Keep your home clean: Clean up food spills regularly and store food in airtight containers to avoid attracting ants.

  3. Properly store pet food: Be sure to keep pet food stored in sealed containers.

  4. Manage outdoor areas: Keep your yard tidy by removing debris and avoid stacking firewood against your house.

  5. Reduce moisture: Fix leaks and ensure good drainage to eliminate damp spots that might attract ants.

By preventing wood ants and knowing how to get rid of them, you can help keep your home safe and free from these pests.

How do I treat wood ants?

The best approach to treating wood ants in your home is thorough and systematic. First, it’s essential to locate the nest, which is often found in wooden structures or outdoor areas nearby. DIY methods, such as using vinegar solutions or homemade bait traps, can temporarily get rid of wood ants. Still, they are generally ineffective for an entire infestation because they don’t address the root cause or eliminate the colony.

At Terminix, our technicians use a comprehensive approach to get rid of carpenter ants. Initially, they conduct a thorough inspection of your property to identify nesting sites and areas of activity. Once the source of the infestation is determined, they utilize targeted carpenter ant treatments to help eliminate the colony. Get started with our ant control services, or try our Terminix PestFree365+ pest control plan to help protect your home from wood ants year-round.

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