What is one effective method to prevent carpenter ant problems?

Trimming back bushes and trees is an effective method to prevent carpenter ant problems because it reduces the likelihood of ants finding their way to your home. Carpenter ants are attracted to moisture and wood, so when vegetation such as bushes and tree branches makes contact with the siding or roof of a house, it creates an inviting environment for them. By maintaining a clear distance between plants and the structure of your home, you can help eliminate potential pathways for these pests and decrease the chances of infestation.

The other options, while they may have some benefits, do not directly address the attraction and access issues that carpenter ants often exploit. For example, applying pesticide may not target the source of the problem effectively, especially if there are conducive conditions nearby, while traps indoors can offer limited control if ants are already entering from outside. Sealing all windows is beneficial for general pest control, but if the surrounding environment is still attractive to ants, this solution alone may not suffice in preventing infestations.