ANT CONTROL: GETTING RID OF ANTS IN THE HOME

Posted By SafeGuard Pest Control Administrator

HIRING A PROFESSIONAL EXTERMINATOR

While there are many do-it-yourself ant control products available, ant control is never as cut and dry as it may seem. Setting out ant traps and spraying along the perimeter of the building are most people’s first defense against an ant infestation. However, ant colonies can contain thousands of ants. For this reason alone, it’s imperative to hire the services of a local pest control provider. That's because professional exterminators have the experience and access to the proper treatment materials to effectively handle an ant infestation in the house.

“HOW ARE THE ANTS GETTING IN?”

Ants are America’s #1 pest. Problem areas often include bathrooms and kitchens, due to the availability of water, however, ants can be found anywhere in the home or office as they forage for food. During the warmer months, ants often build nests outside, and will travel inside to locate food and water. They lay down a chemical trail that other ants follow, so if they find a good resource, they will continue along the path as often as possible. Ants are attracted to the following:

• Grease spills on floors and counters
• Foods that contain sugar like honey and syrup
• Juices and sodas
• Fruit left out on the counter
• Water leaks
• Pet food

A YEAR ROUND PROBLEM

Many people believe that ants are an issue only in the warmer months. In reality, an indoor ant problem can be a year-round matter if there are ant colonies living in the walls, or nesting in some other location within the property. It can be frustrating for homeowners and property managers to deal with ants year round, which is why a licensed technician should be contacted for successful extermination.

PROBLEMS WITH ANTS

The biggest problem with ants is the structural damage they can cause to a home or office building. They are not known to spread disease, but can create stress and frustration for the home or business owner, especially in great numbers. Carpenter ants, in particular, will chew through wood to create their galleries and tunnels. They are sometimes mistaken for termites, which is why identification by a licensed exterminator is recommended in the steps toward eradication.

COMMON TYPES OF HOUSEHOLD ANTS

• Black House Ant
• Carpenter Ant
• Garden Ant
• Fire Ant
• Odorous House Ant
• Pavement Ant
• Pharaoh Ant
• Sugar Ant

Correctly identifying the species of ant is an integral part of thorough treatment. Different species require different treatment methods. A professional exterminator will be able to make a thorough inspection and treat the home or office, and utilize the best ant extermination methods.

MAINTAINING A REGULAR TREATMENT SCHEDULE

The initial treatment to rid the property of ants will succeed when it is applied by a professional exterminator. However, because ants are persistent creatures, they may find their way inside the home again in the future. A regular treatment schedule will provide the necessary prevention to keep the ants away from the home or office.

Infestations of carpenter ants can cause structural damage, resulting in financial loss. By employing regular seasonal treatments, you are preventing ants from building their nests within your home or office, and assuring that the building’s structural integrity won’t be compromised by an ant infestation.

ANT PREVENTION TIPS

Ants are incredibly industrious and will find a way into the home any way they can, since they can fit through most openings. However, there are some things you can do to keep ants at bay. These include:

• Correct all plumbing issues, specifically, leaky pipes and leaks from the roof.
• All exposed wood should be painted or sealed (carpenter ants will chew through untreated wood).
• Store all firewood away from the building.
• All dead stumps on the property should be promptly removed.
• Make sure all branches and other foliage do not touch the structure by keeping them trimmed back.
• Pick up any liquid spills inside or outside the home including sodas, juices, grease, and honey.
• Keep the kitchen area swept and free of debris and crumbs.
• Replace wood that has been previously damaged by insects with new, treated wood.
• Store all proteins, carbohydrates, and sweets in air-tight containers.
• Pick pet food up and store it properly when the pet is done eating.

ARE YOU PREPARED FOR THE #1 PEST ISSUE?

Ants are the number one nuisance for humans as they forage for food both inside and outside of buildings, while creating their nests practically anywhere, from an acorn to inside foundation walls, under concrete slabs (such as patios), under floorboards, inside insulation, inside rotted out window frames, behind cupboards, inside garages, in attics, basement walls, and more This can often lead to an ant problem in the home, in the yard, or even in the car.

That's why the best defense against ants is to contact your local pest control provider for a thorough inspection.