How Do Ants Damage Houses?

Various types of ants can invade your home and cause damage. Carpenter ants, for example, can be a real nuisance. They burrow into your walls and doors, chew through wood, and damage structural framing.

Other common ant species may also invade your home in search of food. This is especially true during spring and summer. Various ants can be attracted to food, including sugary items, greasy meats, and oily foods.

If you have ants in your home, you should watch for signs of their nests. They may be in the form of piles of wood shavings beneath your baseboards, or door jambs. They can also be found under window sills and under your door.

If you hear a hollow sound coming from your walls or doors, this could be a sign of a carpenter ant infestation. During their nesting process, the ants will make rustling noises.

In addition to structural damage, ants can cause health problems as well. They carry fungal organisms and bacteria that can contaminate your food. They are also known to cause allergic reactions in some people.

To avoid having an ant problem, be sure to clean your yard, gutters, and gutter lines regularly. You can also make sure that all gaps are sealed to keep the ants out.

You can also try a chemical approach to ant control. These methods include bug sprays, exterminators, and liquid ant bait.

You may also want to consider a natural approach. For example, you can install aphid-killing plant spikes in the soil of your houseplants.