Most ants are primarily a nuisance and cause little damage. Carpenter ants can weaken wood in structures. However unlike termites ants nest in wood but do not eat wood. Generally there are no disease problems associated with ants. Ants have a wide range of nesting habits and food preferences.
Proper identification is important in determining control measures.
Some ants build nests in soil producing characteristic mounds while others nest in homes behind moldings, baseboards, countertops and similar places. Still others like carpenter ants nest in decaying or moisture damaged wood. Ants feed on a variety of foods including starches, meats, fats and sweets. That's why they hang out in the kitchen with us. Not all ants found outdoors become pests.