Act this week
Little piles of sawdust near wood?
Small piles of coarse sawdust with insect bits in it, under trim, beams or window frames, are a sign of carpenter ants digging nests in damp wood.
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Most likely
Ants
Act this weekIt won't fix itself. Get it looked at soon.
How to tell
- Fine shavings like pencil-sharpener dust, often with ant parts.
- Large black ants indoors, especially at night.
- Faint rustling inside a wall.
Do this now
- Vacuum the pile and watch if it comes back.
- Look above it for small holes in the wood.
- Check for leaks in that area.
Avoid
- Don't ignore it as just dust; carpenter ants keep digging.
When to call a proCall this week. Carpenter ant nests are usually in damp, hidden wood.
Call (855) 424-9709Compare
Other signs: windows
Call todayPiles of tiny wings by a window or door
Probably: termites
Call todayWinged bugs swarming inside the house
Probably: termites
Can waitStink bugs on the windows in fall
Probably: stink bugs, pantry pests and other bugs
Can waitLots of spiders and webs in the corners
Probably: spiders and scorpionsSafety first
While you sort it out
- Keep kids and pets away from nests, droppings and bait.
- Don't spray a nest or set off foggers.
- Wear gloves to clean droppings; never sweep them dry.
- Sting with trouble breathing? Call 911 first.
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