Fact Sheets no. Large black or brown carpenter ants, winged or wingless, can cause serious damage if permitted to remain in the structural wood of a building. Winged carpenter ants often are mistaken for termites, a more serious problem. Locating all nests is the most important and difficult step in controlling carpenter ants. Preventive measures will guard against carpenter ant infestations.
Carpenter ants prefer to nest in decayed, often water-damaged wood.
Occasionally, they move into the sound structural wood of a building. If they are permitted to remain there, serious damage can result. Although carpenter ants can cause significant damage, problems develop slowly and there is plenty of time to plan safe and effective ways to control the infestation. Carpenter ant worker. Carpenter ant, winged form.