Ant Infestation? Does anyone know how to get rid of them?

Recently we decided to do a little home renovation, nothing much, we put new carpet in one room and installed a vanity table in another. Nothing too drastic or anything. Anyway, all of a sudden we began seeing TONS of carpenter ants. Everywhere I look I see one scurrying away, and hurry to squish it (because it seems to be the only way the kill them). Anyway, I was wondering if there's a non-expensive way to kill them for good. Starting tomorrow I'm declaring full-out war on the little bastards (a.k.a. I'm going to start carrying around a can of ant spray). I want the little bastards out of my house. Now. Any help?