Carpenter ant species reside both outdoors and indoors in moist, decaying or hollow wood. They cut "galleries" into the wood grain to provide passageways for movement from section to section of the nest. Certain parts of a house, such as around and under windows, roof eaves, decks and porches, are more likely to be infested by Carpenter Ants because these areas are most vulnerable to moisture.

As pests

Carpenter ants can damage wood used in the construction of buildings. They can leave behind a sawdust-like material called frass that provides clues to their nesting location. Carpenter ant galleries are smooth and very different from termite-damaged areas, which have mud packed into the hollowed-out areas.[3] Control involves application of insecticides in various forms including dusts and liquids. The dusts are injected directly into galleries and voids where the carpenter ants are living. The liquids are applied in areas where foraging ants are likely to pick the material up and, upon returning to the nest the insecticides will kill the rest of the Colony.

Odorous House Ant This ant can be difficult to control because it establishes multiple subcolonies and may nest in such a wide variety of sites. The keys to control are to find the colonies and subcolonies and treat them directly. Where the colonies cannot be found, baits may be attempted; however, several baits may be required before positive results are seen. Regular inspections and service are necessary to find and treat new colonies as they move in from neighboring properties.

Eliminate piles of lumber, bricks, or other debris that could serve as a nesting site for ants.

Keep landscape mulch less than 2 inches thick and at least 12 inches away from foundations.

Ensure the sprinkler system does not spray directly onto the foundation.

Seal as many cracks in the home's exterior as possible.

Keep tree and shrub branches trimmed to prevent them from touching the building.

If you need more help, consider talking to a pest control and exterminator for other methods.