The answer to 'termite vs carpenter ant' is that while both can cause significant damage to wood structures in homes, they are distinct pests with different characteristics and control methods. Termites are social insects that feed on the cellulose in wood, while carpenter ants are solitary insects that excavate tunnels in wood to nest.
Termites are generally more destructive, as they can silently consume the structural integrity of a home over time. Carpenter ants, on the other hand, tend to leave more visible signs of their presence, such as sawdust piles and damaged wood. The costs to treat and prevent termites are also typically higher than for carpenter ants, as termite infestations often require more extensive treatments and ongoing monitoring.