Termites and carpenter ants are two very different insects, but they're easy to mix up, especially when they swarm. Here's a clear breakdown of what sets them apart.
Termites are wood-destroying insects that feed on cellulose found in timber, paper, and other plant-based materials. They work silently and out of sight, which is why infestations often go undetected for years.
Carpenter ants are one of the largest ant species in the U.S. They don't eat wood, but they excavate it to build their nests, which can still cause significant structural damage over time.
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For termites, watch for mud tubes along your foundation, hollow-sounding wood, discarded wings near windows, or small pellet-like termite droppings known as frass.
For carpenter ants, the most telling sign is a trail of coarse sawdust near baseboards, window frames, or door frames, along with the ants themselves, which are most active after dark. You may also hear faint rustling inside walls.
Reducing moisture is one of the most effective things you can do against both pests. Fix leaking pipes, improve drainage around your foundation, and make sure gutters direct water away from the building. Keep firewood, lumber, and mulch away from the exterior walls.
For termites specifically, avoid wood-to-soil contact wherever possible, and consider a professional inspection if you haven't had one recently. Our termite prevention page has more practical steps you can take.
For ants, seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and utility entry points. Keep food stored in sealed containers and clean up spills promptly.
Termites can cause serious structural damage before you even know they're there.
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