Carpenter Ant Wood Damage

Carpenter ants can cause serious structural damage over time by hollowing out wooden beams, joists, and framing to build their nests. While they don’t eat wood like termites, the tunnels they create weaken structural integrity—especially in moisture-compromised areas. Early detection and a professional assessment are key to preventing costly repairs.

Look for small piles of sawdust-like material (frass), faint rustling inside walls, or flying ants indoors—especially near windows or wood structures. Unlike termites, carpenter ants often leave visible signs outside the wood. If you notice these symptoms, it’s time to call in the experts for a full inspection.

 Carpenter ant damage features smooth, clean galleries inside the wood—almost like it’s been sanded. Termite damage, by contrast, appears muddy, rough, and often hidden behind surfaces. Blackwater’s team can distinguish between the two, ensuring the right treatment plan and expert documentation if legal or insurance support is needed.

Yes. While carpenter ants prefer damp or decaying wood, they can also infest dry structural wood if conditions are right. Attics, wall voids, and window frames are common targets. Our inspections identify both active and hidden infestations, helping you take action before the damage spreads.

Carpenter ants often nest in moist or previously damaged wood—like crawlspaces, behind siding, rooflines, window frames, and hollow doors. They’re especially drawn to areas with past water intrusion. At Blackwater, we know where to look and how to uncover damage even when it’s out of sight.

Absolutely. Undisclosed or unresolved carpenter ant damage can lower property value, stall real estate deals, or lead to denied insurance claims. Our expert inspections and litigation-ready reports help protect your interests—whether you’re buying, selling, or dealing with insurance companies.

 Depending on the size of the colony and environmental conditions, carpenter ants can cause visible damage in just a few months. Over time, their tunneling compromises the integrity of wood framing, especially in moisture-prone areas. Early intervention is the best way to avoid long-term costs and structural issues.

 Because surface signs don’t tell the full story, Carpenter ants often nest deep inside walls or beams, and DIY solutions rarely solve the core problem. Blackwater offers expert forensic inspections, damage documentation, and consulting support—including legal testimony when needed. We don’t guess—we uncover the truth.