Carpenter ants are more than a nuisance. These wood-destroying insects can quietly tunnel through walls, beams, and flooring, leaving behind costly structural damage if not treated quickly. Many homeowners mistake carpenter ants for common black ants, but it’s crucial to know the difference. Unlike other ant species, carpenter ants don’t just invade your kitchen for food—they carve out nests inside wood, putting your home at risk.
At Pearson Plumbing, Heating & Pest Control, we’ve been protecting Rockford-area homes for over 60 years. Our trained technicians know how to identify carpenter ant activity, stop infestations at the source, and help prevent them from coming back. If you’ve noticed large black ants indoors, especially near wood, give us a call today at (815) 398-8312 to schedule an inspection.
How to Identify Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants are one of the largest ant species found in Illinois. Adults range from ¼ to ½ inch long, and are usually black or dark reddish-brown. You might notice:
- Large ants crawling near windows, doors, or in the kitchen
- Rustling sounds inside the walls at night
- Piles of sawdust-like material called “frass” near baseboards or wood trim
- Hollow or weakened wood that crumbles when touched
Because carpenter ants are most active at night, it’s easy to miss the early signs. That’s why a professional inspection from Pearson can help you catch the problem before it gets worse.
Why Carpenter Ants Are a Serious Problem
Unlike termites, carpenter ants don’t actually eat wood. Instead, they chew through it to create nesting galleries. Over time, this weakens beams, studs, and joists — the very materials that support your home. Left untreated, an infestation can cause:
- Sagging floors or ceilings
- Structural instability in walls
- Extensive repair costs
DIY sprays or store-bought ant traps may kill visible ants, but they rarely eliminate the colony hidden deep inside wood. A professional treatment plan is the best way to ensure the queen and her workers are removed completely.
Pearson’s Proven Carpenter Ant Control
When you call Pearson, you’ll get more than a quick fix. Our pest control process combines decades of experience, advanced tools, and preventive strategies to give you lasting peace of mind. Here’s what to expect:
- Thorough Inspection: We carefully examine your home inside and out, locating nests, entry points, and signs of damage.
- Targeted Treatment: Using safe, effective products, we eliminate carpenter ants at the source, not just the ones you see.
- Ant Prevention & Guidance: Our team maps out entry points for you and provides practical advice to reduce future infestations.
We understand that pest issues can be stressful. That’s why Pearson offers 24/7 emergency service, financing options for larger jobs, and friendly technicians who treat your home like their own.
The Pearson Difference
Plenty of companies promise pest control, but Pearson sets itself apart with:
60+ Years of Local Experience
We’ve served Rockford and surrounding communities for decades, earning the trust of families like yours.
Comprehensive Home Services
Plumbing, heating, cooling, and pest control under one roof — we’re proud to be your partner for all things home services.
No Problem Club Membership
Enjoy regular inspections, a free outdoor pest application, exclusive discounts, and priority scheduling for added peace of mind.
Family-Owned Company
We’re proud to be a family-owned company with values that support the community we live in.
When you choose Pearson, you’re choosing a team that stands behind every service with reliability, dedication, and genuine care.
Call Pearson for Carpenter Ant Pest Control
Your home is one of your biggest investments. Protect it with expert pest control backed by decades of experience. Pearson Plumbing, Heating & Pest Control is ready to help you eliminate carpenter ants quickly and effectively.
Call (815) 398-8312 to schedule your inspection.
