As the spring thaw continues across Canada, pest control specialists are warning homeowners to be on high alert for carpenter ants.
They continue to be one of the most destructive pests to infiltrate homes this time of year.
Orkin Canada reports a surge in infestations, citing damp and mild spring conditions as the driving force behind the spike.
Carpenter ants don’t eat wood like termites, but they do tunnel through it to create nests. Over time, this excavation can lead to serious structural damage, especially when moisture-compromised wood is involved. However, experts caution that even sound wood isn’t immune.
To help prevent infestations, Orkin Canada recommends a few key steps:
- Eliminate moisture: Fix leaky pipes, roofs, and basements. Reduce indoor humidity with proper ventilation.
- Seal entry points: Close cracks around windows, doors, utility lines, and foundations.
- Clear wood debris: Remove old firewood, dead trees, and stumps near the home.
- Trim vegetation: Keep branches and shrubs from touching your house, as they can act as bridges for ants.
- Inspect regularly: Look for live or dead ants, piles of wood shavings, rustling in walls, or discarded wings.
With early action and proper prevention, homeowners can safeguard their homes from costly damage. If signs of carpenter ants appear, experts recommend seeking professional pest control support right away.
If you have a news tip or story idea, you can now send us a heads up via email at:
- News1013@LocalRadio.ca (Milton)
- News1015@LocalRadio.ca (Orangeville)
- News92@LocalRadio.ca (South Simcoe)
If you’d like to get ahold of me personally, shoot me a message at Cameron.Wilkinson@LocalRadio.ca. We’re in the business of content creation, so no idea is a bad idea.
