Ants of any kind are a nuisance in your home, and while some will just swarm sweet, sticky foods, others can be outright destructive. Moisture and carpenter ants are two different types of wood-eating insects, but you could be forgiven for thinking they’re the same. They’re both small, dark-colored, and like to make holes in wood. The guide below explains their differences and the pest control measures that are necessary.

Moisture Ants

These ants are small, normally no bigger than an eighth of an inch. They may take up residence in your yard and occasionally infiltrate your home while searching for food, but they’re unlikely to be noticeable unless you have a leak. That’s where they get their name from—the curious structures they build around sources of moisture.

Once they’ve moved into or near your home, moisture ants will start to use soil from the outdoors or particles of water-damaged wood to build “cartons,” nests that will soak up water from the leak. Because the carton absorbs water, it can lead to further wood decay. However, they’re not aggressive wood destroyers, and if you catch the problem early, a quick visit from a pest control company will solve the issue.

Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are slightly larger than moisture ants, coming in at close to half an inch. They’re typically brown or black, and like termites, they’re fond of wood furniture and support beams. Unlike termites, though, carpenter ants don’t feed on the wood—they just like to burrow in it. While carpenter ants need water to live, they’re not nearly as interested in it as moisture ants are.

If you see small piles of wood shavings near wooden furniture or joists, you may have a carpenter ant infestation. You can also tap on areas that you suspect are infested. If you hear a light rustling, the ants are moving because you disturbed them. While it can take years, carpenter ants can cause structural damage, so you should call a pest control company if you see signs of infestation. 

Please note:  The picture at the top of the page is a carpenter ant. 

Now that you know the difference between these types of ants, you’re ready to identify an infestation correctly. For prompt, effective pest control in Port Orchard, WA, contact the professionals at Extermination Services. They only use low-toxicity products to keep your family safe and they can handle rodents, wasps, ants, termites, and more. Learn about their full range of services online. Call (360) 895-1890 to schedule an appointment.