How Can Ants Cause Structural Damage to Your Home?
WouterWhether you are dealing with an infestation of ants or termites, there are certain things to watch out for. If you have a problem with these insects, you can get rid of them by hiring a certified pest control company.
While there are many species of ants, most are not going to cause structural damage to your home. These insects are primarily nuisance pests. They have very strong jaws, which enable them to chew through almost anything. They can chew through wood, insulation, drywall, and even plastic. They are attracted to moisture and dark, humid areas.
Carpenter ants build their nests in the wood of houses, chimneys, and other wooden structures. They dig deep into the wood to create tunnels for their colonies. They are the most common species of wood destroying pests.
They will cause similar damage to damp wood as termites, but do not cause the same level of destruction. Carpenter ants live in large colonies and will colonize areas that are close to food sources.
Ants can enter a house through a window or door frame. They also have the ability to get inside your home through cracks in the walls or floors. They will also chew through window caulk, insulation, and wiring.
Carpenter ants will also hollow out the foundation of a house. This can weaken the structure of the house and cause it to leak water. They can also short circuit electrical equipment such as air conditioners and switches.
