What Long Island Homeowners Should Know About Ants & Termites

As Long Island homeowners, we often deal with pesky critters. Termites and ants, in particular, can really catch our eye. While they might look similar at first glance, it's important to know the differences because of the impact they can have on our homes. In this article, we'll dive into the differences between ants and termites and give you some helpful tips on what to do if you come across these little critters.

Did You Know? Termites and ants engage in competition for territory and resources. Carpenter ants, in particular, are known to prey on and consume termites. When present in large numbers, carpenter ants have the capability to eliminate entire termite colonies. Typically, homeowners will encounter either termites or ants, but it is uncommon to have both simultaneously.

What's the Difference?

Eastern Subterranean Termites that are most often seen by homeowners are termite swarmers, which are often call "flying termites." These termites have black to dark brown bodies about 3/8 inch in length. They are equipped with four pairs of wings, identical in size and shape. The antennae are straight and resembles a string of little beads.

Ant colonies release winged ants. These winged ants are often called alates, swarmers, or winged reproductives. Their bodies can be black, brown, or reddish. They swarm at the same time as termites, usually from March to July. So, flying ants are often mistaken for termite swarmers or flying termites.

Both species have wings that extend beyond their bodies. With both being similar in size and color and the fact that they swarm at the same time of year, it's easy to see why some mistake one for the other. Telling the difference between the two is very important to effective pest control treatment.

Is Termite Control or Ant Control A DIY?

Over-the-counter products may claim to kill termites and ants. Their effectiveness, however, may be limited. They can provide some protection. But don't rely on them to fully eradicate an established infestation. These products may only target a portion of the infestation, leaving the possibility of a resurgence in population. Once that time is up, those pests will come back in full force. But there are practical DIY tips as shown below that you can do to protect your property from termites and ants.

Are Ants and Termites Dangerous?

While ants and termites may seem like mere nuisances, their presence can pose significant dangers to your home. Termites, often called "silent destroyers," can cause extensive structural damage as they feed on wood, compromising the integrity of your house. Their relentless appetite can lead to costly repairs if left unchecked. Termites can eat wood 24/7 without rest and cause approximately $6.8 billion in damages. Termite damages are not covered by insurance. Here is an image of termite damage at a house in Uniondale, NY.

On the other hand, carpenter ants, though not as voracious as termites, can still wreak havoc by hollowing out wood to build their nests, weakening wooden structures over time. Both pests can also attract other unwanted insects, creating a larger infestation problem. Understanding the potential threats these insects pose is crucial for maintaining a safe and sound home environment.

How Do I Prevent Ant or Termite Infestation?

We recommend these following tips to prevent ant and termites from entering and damaging your property.

• Use a caulking gun to fill in holes, gaps, and cracks around your home’s exterior.
• Make sure there is a non-wood barrier between exterior soil and your home’s structural wood.
• Address moisture issues in and around your home by fixing piping, repairing broken gutters, and using a dehumidifier.
• Repair or replace structural wood that is negatively affected by rot, decay, or water-damage.
• Store firewood and untreated lumber a good distance from your home’s exterior.
• Avoid using wood-based mulch on your property.
• Clean up sticks, leaves, and other wood-based debris from your yard.
• Remove dead stumps and fallen trees from your property.

Call EM Pest Control to Eliminate Both Ants and Termites

If you spot flying termites or ants in your home, give EM Pest Control a call! Our friendly team of experts in Long Island, Queens, and Brooklyn are eager to help you tackle the issue. We provide personalized solutions to keep your home safe from both ants and termites. With our quick response, we promise to make your home a cozy, pest-free haven. Call us today for a free quote!

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