maple tree problems

we've been on this property for 7 years, and this is the first year we've noticed branches dying back on on of our maple trees (I think its a silver leaf maple)

when I inspected the tree today, I noticed a large number of ants coming out of the trunk (looked like fire ants)

I also noticed that many of the roots are visible above the ground level.

don't really know what the extent of the problem(s) is/are and don't know where to start. can anyone give us some advice.....am uploading several pictures

 

It's possible that those 'fire ants' are actually carpenter ants.

 

they are black and red and about the size of fire ants
but you may be right.....don't know much about carpenter ants

 

Here's a page that says it can help with ID: http://www.extension.umn.edu/distribution/housingandclothing/DK1015.html

 

thanks
I believe they are carpenter ants.....had always thought carpenter ants had to be bigger than fire ants and black only

 

No problem, it's always a good idea to check - especially here in Texas. ;)