The most effective means of control begins with the location of the main colony and the satellite colonies. Clues in the location of nesting sites include extruded sawdust, foraging trails, and the presence of foraging ants. Colonies within the structure should be controlled by a direct application of a pesticide. Nests in wall voids often can be accessed through plumbing or electrical wiring. Electrical plates can be removed and an insecticide applied into the wall void along the outside edge of the electrical box.
Ants follow wiring and plumbing routes through the structure.
Dust formulations are effective against all Hymenoptera because the dust adheres to the hairy surfaces of their bodies. As they clean themselves and feed other ants and larvae, the insecticide is spread throughout the colony. This formulation is effective as long as it does not become wet, so it is used primarily in wall voids. A perimeter spray of the structure should also be made during the season of carpenter ant activity from April through September. This will disrupt foraging trails and help to prevent re-entry from parent colonies nesting outside the structure.