Summer in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, means sunshine, barbecues, and enjoying the outdoors. But while you're soaking up the warm weather, something more destructive might be happening inside your home—a carpenter ant infestation.
Carpenter ants are one of the most destructive pests in the Pittsburgh area, and summertime is when they’re most active. Unlike termites, they don’t eat wood, but they do tunnel through it to build their nests, which can lead to serious structural damage if left untreated.
Here’s what every homeowner in Pittsburgh needs to know about the hidden danger of carpenter ants and how to keep them out of your home.
Why Summer Is Prime Time for Carpenter Ants in Pittsburgh
Carpenter ants become more active when the temperature rises. Summer provides the warmth and moisture these ants need to thrive and expand their colonies. If you've seen large black ants crawling around your windowsills, kitchen, or basement, don’t ignore them—they could be scouting for nesting sites.
Factors that attract carpenter ants in summer:
- Warm temperatures accelerate their activity and colony growth.
- Moisture problems (like leaky roofs, pipes, or damp wood) create perfect nesting areas.
- Decaying or untreated wood around your property can act as a magnet.
How to Identify a Carpenter Ant Problem
Carpenter ants can be sneaky, and by the time you notice signs, significant damage may already be done.
Look for:
- Large black ants (especially winged ants inside the home)
- Sawdust-like debris (frass) near baseboards, windows, or walls
- Faint rustling noises coming from inside walls
- Damaged or hollow-sounding wood
If you’re seeing winged ants indoors during summer in Pittsburgh, they’re likely nesting inside your home, not just visiting.
Why Carpenter Ants Are So Dangerous
Carpenter ants weaken the structural integrity of your home over time. They tunnel through wood to create galleries for their nests, and while it may take longer than termites, the damage can be just as costly if ignored.
Homes with moisture issues, older wood structures, or areas of rot are at especially high risk.
How to Prevent Carpenter Ant Infestations
- Fix Moisture Issues: Repair leaking roofs, pipes, or windows that allow water to seep into wood structures.
- Trim Trees and Shrubs: Carpenter ants often enter homes by traveling along tree branches that touch the roof or siding.
- Store Firewood Away From the Home: Wood piles should be at least 20 feet from your foundation and elevated off the ground.
- Seal Entry Points: Inspect and caulk cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and the foundation.
- Schedule Regular Pest Inspections: Professional pest control companies in Pittsburgh, PA can spot the early signs of an infestation and take action before major damage occurs.
When to Call a Carpenter Ant Exterminator in Pittsburgh
If you suspect carpenter ants are in or near your home, don’t wait. These pests won’t go away on their own, and DIY sprays typically don’t eliminate the nest.
A licensed Pittsburgh pest control company will:
- Identify the source and nest location
- Apply safe and effective treatments
- Provide long-term prevention strategies
Protect Your Pittsburgh Home This Summer
Don’t let carpenter ants silently destroy the place you call home. Whether you’ve noticed signs of activity or just want peace of mind, now is the time to act.
Complete Pest Solutions offers expert pest control services across Pittsburgh and Allegheny County. We specialize in carpenter ant removal and prevention and offer free inspections for homeowners.
Call us today to schedule your carpenter ant inspection and protect your home before the damage is done.