Carpenter Ants in wood fence
by
Becky P
Do you have holes in your wood fence like this? I did not know what was making the holes until I power washed the fence and all these carpenter ants started scurrying out of the holes. I can't afford to stain the fence (it's too big and I am too old and tired!) Should I fill the holes with wood putty and hope they move on? The fence is stained on the outside facing the street. (I did spray bug killer in the holes.)
Comments
Join the conversation
2 of 4 comments
-
I doubt the carpenter ants did that damage. Although they are a creature of opportunity. They often overtake old termite damaged wood and use the galleries that the termites make when they are done or have been removed because of changes in the environment around them. In any case it is very common to find them nesting in places such as this. If you plug the holes, and sprayed a bit of ant killer, you should be fine. An occasional spray on the ground around where the fence rests is a good idea also. You do not have to plug the holes, but not doing so allows moisture to get into the wood causing it to rot and decay faster. Which would result in a new fence being required. Its your call on this. To stain the fence or the easiest method to stain your fence, is to use a garden sprayer. Purchase a cheep one so you can discard it once your done. And simply spray the fence with the stain. Then while still wet, a thick roller pad on a long handle to smooth out the runs. Works like a charm. Real easy to do.
-
ok thanks! The fence is only 6 or 7 years old, depending on the side. Last winter we had a post break off during a storm and it seemed like it was termite damage. I thought cedar repelled termites.
Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?