The 4-second visual ID
| Feature | Carpenter Ant | Pavement Ant |
|---|---|---|
| Size | 3/8 – 1/2 inch (large) | 1/8 inch (very small) |
| Color | Black, sometimes black + red | Dark brown to black |
| Where you see them | Inside, near window frames, in kitchens | Under sidewalks, foundation cracks, kitchens |
| Evidence they leave | Fine sawdust ("frass") below ceiling cracks | Small dirt mounds between paving slabs |
| Damage to your home | Yes — they excavate wood | No — they're a nuisance only |
Why it matters
Carpenter ants don't eat wood — but they hollow it out to nest in it. Over years, an unchecked carpenter ant colony can compromise window frames, sill plates, and porch supports. You should treat them within the same season you find them.
Pavement ants are annoying but not destructive. The treatment is much faster (a non-repellent bait at trail entry points), and the colony is usually wiped out in 7–10 days.
Carpenter ant treatment is multi-step
1. Identify the colony location (we often use moisture meters — carpenter ants love damp wood) 2. Inject non-repellent into the nesting void via small holes 3. Place bait gels on active trails 4. Address the moisture source (gutter, roof leak, AC drip) that drew them in 5. Follow-up in 30 days to confirm elimination
Free identification — bag one of the ants in a ziplock and we'll ID it on the call.