There are many types of ants that can be found in and around homes, but carpenter ants and termites are two of the most common. Both carpenter ants and termites are attracted to wood, but there are some key differences between the two. Carpenter ants are generally larger than termites and have a narrower waist. They also have large mandibles that they use to chew through wood. Termites, on the other hand, are smaller in size and have a broader waist. They also have smaller mandibles and feed on wood by softening it with their saliva.

In this blog, you’ll learn:

• How to tell the difference between carpenter ants and termites
• What termites feed on
• How carpenter ants swarms multiply
• How A1 Exterminators can help you get ant and termite free

Are you noticing new holes or tunnels throughout your precious mahogany wood? Are you desperately looking for a Termite Control solution? A1 Exterminators can help you get rid of termites today.

What Are The Main Differences Between Ants & Termites?

There are three main differences between ants and other insects: their size, their social behavior, and their ability to survive in harsh environments. Ants are much smaller than other insects, which makes them more difficult to see and easier to miss. This also allows them to enter into small spaces, which is useful for their survival. Ants are very social insects, living in large colonies with many different roles.

This social behavior helps them to survive in harsh environments and to find food. Finally, ants are able to survive in harsh environments because of their ability to store food. This allows them to go without food for long periods of time, which is essential for their survival.

Difference #1: How Big Are Each of the Insects?

Large queen surrounded by smaller attendants of ant colony found under bark of firewood. Likely carpenter ants Camponotus pennsylvanicus.

Carpenter ants are one of the largest species of ants, and can be a real nuisance if they invade your home. These black or dark brown ants are about ¼ to ½ inch in length, and are attracted to damp or wet wood. If you see carpenter ants in your home, it’s important to take action immediately to get rid of them, as they can cause significant damage to your property.

Carpenter ants are:

• Largest species of ants
• Made up of black or dark brown skin
• ¼ to ½ inch in length

Termites are one of the most feared pests in the United States. They are small, yet they can cause big problems. A mature termite colony can have up to 2 million members. That’s a lot of termites eating away at your home!

Remember, termites are:

• Small
• Colonies have 2 million members
• These pests love to feed on wood

Difference #2: What Do Carpenter Ants & Termites Eat?

Carpenter ants are a type of ant that is known for its wood-destroying habits. These ants are able to tunnel through wood and create damage to the structure of a home or building. While carpenter ants do not eat wood, they do use it to create their nests. These ants are attracted to moist or rotting wood, so they are often found in homes or buildings that have water damage.

Termites on the other hand, feed on wooden structures like homes and furniture can be at risk for damage from termites. These insects feed on wood, and their colonies can quickly cause extensive damage to a property. Homeowners should be aware of the signs of termite damage and be sure to contact a pest control professional if they suspect an infestation.

Difference #3: Where Do Termites & Carpenter Ants Live? 

Professional gas range and range hood, white cabinet, antique ceiling lamps, fine bone china teacups in cabinets. Chalk paint hand-painted stools. Antique brass fruit tray.

Termites generally live in the soil, but some species build their nests in trees or in above-ground mounds. Some tropical species can even live in the water. Termites are very important in the ecosystem because they help break down dead wood and other plant material.

Carpenter ants are insects that live in wood. They are one of the most common types of ants in North America. Carpenter ants are black or brown and are about 1/4 to 1/2 inch long. They get their name from the fact that they build their nests in wood. Carpenter ants are not harmful to humans, but they can be a nuisance. If you have carpenter ants in your home, you should call an exterminator.

Difference #4: What Kind of Problems Do Pests Cause?

Pests are a big problem for homeowners. They can cause damage to your home, make it dirty, and carry diseases. Some pests, like termites, can even eat away at the wood in your home. This can be a huge problem because it can make your home structurally unsound. Other pests, like cockroaches, can carry diseases like salmonella. This can be a big problem if you have young children or elderly people in your home.

Termites can cause a significant amount of damage including:

• Damage to priceless wood and kitchen counters
• Holes and unsightly swarms
• Anxiety and overall uneasiness for families

Carpenter Ants also cause their fair share of destruction, including:

• Carpenter ants produce frass that can be found around areas where they infest and do damage
• Carpenter ants emerge from their tunnels and live seemingly forever (at least that’s what it seems like to scared and shocked homeowners)
• Visible damage always occurs when swarms of carpenter ants are in your home or office. Carpenter Ant Control is extremely important to have in place to avoid these problems.

Difference #5: How Does A1 Exterminators Treat For Carpenter Ants & Pesky Pests Like These?

Destroying the nest of the carpenter ants and removing rotting wood is crucial in the process of removing this damaging pest. Insecticide sprays help kill some of the worker ants inside the home, but if the nest remains untreated the queen will continue to produce more offspring and the attacks on your home or business will continue. Carpenter Ant Control is one of the most popular services we offer at A1 Exterminators.

Start the carpenter ant treatment process by removing rotted wood from your home and property. Eliminate all entry points to your home like cracks in the foundation and spaces around pipes that lead into your home. If you have firewood outside do not store it directly on the ground, but raise it up using bricks or other non-organic materials. If you have done these simple steps and still have a carpenter ant issue in your home or business call A1 Exterminators today.

Get Rid of Carpenter Ants With A1 Exterminators