Pavement Ants vs Carpenter Ants

In and around our houses, ants can be a pain, especially if they become more numerous. Ants come in a variety of varieties, with pavement ants and carpenter ants being two of the most prevalent. People may have a hard time telling the difference between the two, but it’s important to do so, as control methods vary. We’ll look at the characteristics of pavement ants and carpenter ants, how to spot an infestation and the best ant removal strategies.

Characteristics of Pavement Ants

A little species, pavement ants, often known as sugar ants, typically measure between 2.5 and 4 mm in length. They have two antennae and a segmented body that is dark brown or black in hue. Their favored nesting locations, which are frequently in the cracks of pavement, sidewalks, and driveways, gave these ants their name. They might enter houses in quest of sweet pleasures and are drawn to sweet meals. Although they don’t offer any serious health threats, pavement ants can be a pain in the neck.

Distinctions between Pavement and Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants, on the other hand, are significantly larger and range in size from 1/4 to 1/2 inch. Despite being predominantly black, some species can also be reddish or yellow. The thorax and abdomen of carpenter ants are rounded. As opposed to pavement ants, carpenter ants can badly damage wood structures and need to be dealt with right away. Carpenter ants construct their nests in wood, particularly decaying, moist wood. They can potentially weaken your home’s structure if they go untreated.

Look Out for Signs of Pavement Ant Infestations

Signs of pavement ant infestations include the presence of ants in and around your home, particularly in the kitchen or pantry areas where sweet foods are often stored. These ants are also known to create visible and unsightly dirt mounds around their nests, which can be found in cracks, under rocks, or near paved areas. Keep an eye out for these mounds, as they’re a clear indication of a pavement ant infestation.

Find out How to Spot a Carpenter Ant Nest

Like pavement ants, carpenter ants are most active in the spring and summer. Winged ants, wood shavings or sawdust close to wooden buildings, and rustling sounds in your walls are all indications that you may have carpenter ants in your home. Examine any potential spots where water damage may have occurred, because carpenter ants often like damp or moist wood. These ants may have multiple nesting sites within your home, so thorough inspections are necessary.

Ant Removal: The Best Strategies

Several methods can be used for ant removal. For pavement ants, using commercial ant bait stations or ant traps can be effective. These traps contain slow-acting insecticides that the ants carry back to their nests, ultimately killing the colony. For carpenter ants, it’s best to call in a pest control expert who can identify the nest’s location and use specialized insecticides to eliminate the infestation. Some DIY remedies like borax and sugar mixtures can be used to kill carpenter ants, but without the eradication of the central colony, the problem will remain.

Protect Your Property From Future Ant Infestations

Preventative measures can help keep both pavement ants and carpenter ants from infesting your home. These include:

• Cleaning up food and drink spills immediately
• Storing food in airtight containers or the fridge
• Sealing up cracks and crevices around your home using caulk or foam
• Fixing any leaks or water damage
• Regularly inspecting your home for signs of ant infestations

Managing Ant Infestations

Pavement ants and carpenter ants may look similar at first glance, but they have distinct differences in their physical characteristics and behavior. Knowing these differences can help homeowners better identify and treat ant infestations. However, it’s always best to call in a professional pest control service to eliminate the infestation properly and to prevent any future ant infestations from occurring in your home. Taking preventative measures can also go a long way in ensuring that your home is and remains ant free.

The Best Ant Removal Company in Ohio

When dealing with these ant infestations, it’s important to act swiftly and effectively to prevent structural damage to your home and maintain the cleanliness of your living spaces. If you’re located in the Cleveland, Ohio, area and are dealing with either pavement ants or carpenter ants, don’t hesitate to reach out to Prevent Pest Control for expert assistance. Our team of professionals is equipped to handle these pests safely and efficiently, ensuring your home is ant free. Give us a call today at (440) 322-0887 or visit our website for all your ant removal needs.