How to tell the difference between carpenter ants and termites
Did you ever consider that termites and carpenter ants have a lot in common? So they might not be the most popular houseguests, but getting to know them can help you keep them out of your home in this way, safely and soundly!
Both of these little critters enjoy munching on wood and can do significant damage when permitted to run rampant. And they are also very adept at hiding so they can cause problems without you even noticing. This is why it's so critical to contact a professional pest control service if you see any signs of wood damage, or suspect you have a termite or carpenter ant problem. At Nexus Termite Treatment Belmont, qualified technicians can help identify the nuisance, as well as provide adequate treatment options to help protect your Castle Hill home.
Carpenter ant and termite bodies
While termites and carpenter ants share some similarities in their wood-eating tendencies, they are different. For one, carpenter ants have a more segmented body ( head, thorax and abdomen), while termites have a basic shape ( head and thorax). Termite wings are generally much longer than their bodies, while ant wings are only a little longer than their bodies.
As for snacking, termites are the real wood-lovers, depending on it for sustenance, while carpenter ants can’t digest wood; they simply tunnel through it to create their comfy nests. Termites are known as “silent destroyers” because they can chew through wood, flooring and even wallpaper undetected. Carpenter ants can also do damage, but they tend to take a bit more time to really get going.
These two pests can also take up residence in your home’s wood. Carpenter ants like to nest in moist or decaying wood, while termites dwell in enormous underground colonies! They construct mud tubes for traversing and keeping them safe.
To help prevent these pests from sticking around, be sure to repair any leaks or moisture issues in your home immediately. Both these critters like a moist environment, so addressing those problems is critical!
Now, here’s a fun fact: Carpenter ants tunnel creates smooth, neat channels, whereas termite tunnels are rough and often filled with mud. If you think you have either of these guests, it’s better not to bother them or apply any sprays; this might only create more problems.
Identifying whether you’re dealing with carpenter ants or termites can be confusing, but it’s OK! This is why Nexus Termite Treatment Belmont is at your service. We can find the source and develop a customized plan to keep these pesky pests out of your house. Plus, we’ll offer advice to avoid further infestations in the future.
Signs of Carpenter ants in your home
Here are some signs of carpenter ants:
Sawdust: Look for small piles of wood shavings mixed with insect parts.
Noise: You might hear crunching sounds as they tunnel through the wood.
Damaged wood: Check high-moisture areas like basements for smooth tunnels.
Foraging trails: Carpenter ants often stick to the same paths.
Signs of Termites in your home
Discolored or drooping drywall
Peeling paint that looks like water damage
Wood that sounds hollow when tapped
Small, pinpoint holes in drywall
Buckling floorboards
Stuck windows or doors
Mud tubes on your home’s foundation
According to Australian Standard, if you don’t have a termite barrier, you should get inspected every six months and once per year if you do.
Termites and carpenter ants can do costly damage to your home, but if you identify them early, it’s often treatable on a budget. Don’t hesitate to contact us for a proper investigation if you think you have a pest issue. We’re here to help keep your home, safe and sound!
Nexus Termite Treatment Belmont offers all pest control services in Belmont and surroundings. Feel free to contact us at (08) 6275 6512 or visit our website:
https://nexustermitetreatment.com.au/
