Ants are a common household pest that can quickly become an infestation if left untreated. Ant infestations can be frustrating to deal with as they can contaminate food and cause damage to property.
Ants typically enter homes in search of food and water. They are attracted to sweet, greasy, or protein-rich substances, and once they find a food source, they leave a trail of pheromones for other ants to follow. This can quickly lead to an ant trail and a full-blown infestation if not addressed promptly.
There are many types of ants that can invade homes, but some of the most common include:
- pavement ants
- carpenter ants
- odorous house ants (sugar ants)
- Argentine ants
The specific type of ant can impact the treatment method used, so it’s important to properly identify the ant species before taking action.
To prevent ant infestations, it’s essential to maintain a clean home, store food securely, and promptly clean up spills and crumbs. Sealing entry points around the home, such as cracks in walls or windows, can also help prevent ants from entering.
If an infestation has already taken hold, there are several options for treatment. Some people opt for DIY methods, such as bait stations or sprays, while others prefer to hire a professional pest control service. Baits are a common method of ant control as they attract ants with a sweet or greasy substance, and the ants carry the poison back to the colony, effectively eliminating it. Sprays can be effective for spot treatment, but they may not reach the entire colony.
It’s important to note that while DIY methods can be effective, they may not be sufficient for severe infestations or certain ant species, such as carpenter ants, which can cause significant damage to homes. In these cases, a professional pest control service may be necessary to completely eliminate the infestation and prevent future ones.
Household ant infestations can be a frustrating and persistent problem. Prevention measures, such as maintaining a clean home and sealing entry points, are essential, but if an infestation does occur, it’s important to properly identify the ant species and consider professional pest control services for severe infestations or certain ant species.
Get Professional Help from Bug-A-Way!
If you’re fighting a persistent ant infestation or simply trying to prevent one in the future, we can help! As the Four States’ pest control experts, we have safe and effective solutions ready to put a definitive end to your struggle with ant infestations.