When Should I Call a Professional Pest Control Company for Ant Control?

Identification of the Type of Ant

Before contacting a professional pest control company, you should attempt to identify ant species. There are many different species of ants, each with their own unique characteristics and behaviors. By understanding the specific type of ant you are dealing with, you can tailor your approach to ant control and take the necessary steps to keep them out of your home.

If you have ants in your home, they will likely be one of the following species. 

• Odorous house ant: As their name suggests, when crushed, these ants emit a strong odor, similar to rotten coconut. They are typically brown or black and range in size from 1/16 to 1/8 of an inch. Odorous house ants are attracted to sugary foods; you will often find them in kitchens and pantries.
• Pavement ant: You typically find these dark brown or black ants outdoors, building their nests in pavement cracks or under rocks. However, they are attracted to sweet and greasy foods and can come inside in search of those treats. Pavement ants can also sting if provoked.
• Carpenter ant: Unlike other ant species, carpenter ants bore into wood to build their nests, causing damage to wooden structures over time. They are typically larger than other ant species, ranging from 1/4 to 1/2 of an inch. Carpenter ants can be black, red, or a combination of both and are attracted to both sweet and protein-based foods.
• Pharaoh ant: Pharaoh ants are very small and light yellow. They can nest indoors in hard-to-reach areas, like wall voids and electrical boxes, making them difficult to eliminate.
• Argentine ant: Argentine ants are dark brown and typically nest outdoors but can come indoors for food. They are attracted to sweet foods and can form large colonies that are difficult to control.

Identifying the type of ant infesting your home is the first step in effective ant control, as understanding the specific characteristics and behaviors of each type of ant will help you determine the most effective treatment options and preventative measures. If you are unsure of the ant species, contact a professional pest control company for assistance.

Signs of an Infestation

Ants are a problem that every homeowner has to deal with at some point. These tiny insects can easily invade your home and quickly set up shop, creating an infestation that can be difficult to eradicate. 

Here are some signs to watch out for.

• Ant sightings: Firstly, if you see ants crawling around in your house, you likely have an infestation. Ants will often travel in large groups, so if you spot one, chances are there are many more nearby. Additionally, you may notice large numbers of ants entering your home through cracks in the windows or doors.
• Ant trails: Another tell-tale sign of an infestation is the presence of ant trails. These lines of ants move back and forth between their nest and food sources. You may notice them on floors, walls, or ceilings. You will often find ant trails in kitchens and pantries.
• Wood damage: Damage to wooden structures is another indication of an ant infestation. Carpenter ants, in particular, are known to bore into wood to create their nests. Over time, this can significantly damage your home’s structural integrity.
• Piles of wood shavings: If you notice piles of wood shavings or sawdust around baseboards or windowsills, this can signify a carpenter ant infestation. These ants create piles of wood debris as they make their nests.
• Small dark spots: Tiny dark spots on your kitchen counter or in your pantry could be evidence of an ant infestation. These spots are actually ant feces, often mistaken for dirt or other debris.

Call a professional pest control company to handle the problem if you notice any of these signs. With their help, you can eliminate the ants and prevent future infestations from occurring.

Structural Damage Caused by the Ants

Ants may seem like harmless creatures, but they can cause significant damage to your home’s structural integrity. Carpenter ants can be especially damaging to homes. They will burrow into the wood to create tunnels and chambers, which can compromise its strength and make it more prone to cracking or breaking. In severe cases, this can even lead to collapse or failure of the affected structure.

If you notice signs of carpenter ants in your home, such as piles of wood shavings or sawdust, or if you hear a faint rustling sound coming from your walls, you should call in a professional pest control company as soon as possible. A trained professional can identify the extent of the infestation and develop a targeted treatment plan to eliminate the ants and prevent future damage.

Mounds or Nests Found Outside or Inside the Building

Ants create mounds or nests as their homes. They are usually found in moist areas, near a food source, or outside a building, especially in gardens and lawns. The mounds look like piles of earth or soil with a small hole in the center. Ants create these mounds by digging into the ground to create tunnels and chambers. If you notice ant mounds in your garden or lawn, you should eliminate the ants before they make their way into your home.

On the other hand, finding ant nests inside your house usually indicates a more serious infestation. Ants can build nests in the walls, ceiling, and flooring, making them difficult to locate and eliminate. If you notice ant activity inside your home, such as ants crawling on your kitchen counter, walls, or floors, it’s important to call a professional pest control company to address the issue.

Pre-Treatment Preparation

A professional pest control company can confirm an ant infestation and provide a treatment plan. However, you will need to do some preparation to ensure your home is ready for treatment to begin. 

Here are a few things you need to know about pre-treatment preparation:

• Clear the area: Before the pest control technician arrives, clear the area where treatment will occur. You will need to remove loose objects, such as toys, clothing, or pet food bowls, from the floor. 
• Store food and dishes properly: Ants are attracted to food sources, so storing all food and dishes properly before treatment is important. Seal food in airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator or pantry. Clear dishes from countertops, sinks, and tables.
• Vacuum regularly: Vacuum the floors, rugs, and carpets in your home before treatment. Doing so removes any debris or dirt that could interfere with the effectiveness of the treatment. Additionally, vacuuming can help to remove ant nests or pheromone trails.
• Identify the type of ant: Different ant species require different treatments, so you should attempt to identify the type of ant that is present before treatment. Pest control professionals can help you confirm the identity of the ant, but it can be helpful to take a picture of the ant and send it to the technician before their arrival.
• Follow the technician’s instructions: The pest control technician will provide specific instructions for pre-treatment preparation. You must follow them carefully. Failure to follow these instructions can result in ineffective treatment and even worsen the ant infestation.
• Stay safe: Pest control treatments can be hazardous without the proper pre-treatment preparation. Cover any sensitive areas, remove pets and children from the home, and wear protective clothing on the day of treatment. Follow all safety instructions provided by the pest control technician.

Remove Any Food Sources Luring in the Ants

Ants can be pesky nuisances in your home. One of the main reasons ants infest homes is the easy availability of food. Hence, removing any food sources that might be luring them in is important. Here are a few tips on how to do just that:

• Seal food: Ants can quickly detect even small amounts of food and follow the trail to the source. So, make sure to store food in airtight containers or jars. 
• Clean spills and crumbs: Even the tiniest food particle can attract ants. Make sure to clean up any spills or crumbs immediately. Wipe down your kitchen counters and dining table after every meal.
• Dispose of garbage: Ants love garbage, and a full trash can is an open invitation for an ant infestation. Regularly dispose of your garbage and keep your trash containers sealed.
• Keep pet food sealed: Ants are also attracted to pet food. Make sure to store pet food in sealed containers. And after your pet has finished eating, clean up any remaining food immediately. 
• Fix leaks: Ants need water to survive, so fix any leaks or standing water sources in your home. 

Secure All Wooden Structures to Prevent Future Infestations

One of the most important steps regarding ant control is to secure all wooden structures in and around your home. Ants, especially carpenter ants, have a natural affinity for wood and can quickly establish colonies in your home’s wooden structures. 

Below we have listed the best ways to secure your wooden structures to prevent ant infestations.

• Inspect everything: Inspect any wooden structures in and around your home, including decks, porches, and outdoor furniture. Look for any signs of damage, such as chewed wood or visible tunnels. 
• Apply boric acid: You can apply boric acid to the wood infested with ants. This substance is toxic to ants and can kill any existing colonies. However, always exercise caution when using boric acid, as it can also be toxic to humans and pets if ingested.
• Use diatomaceous earth: Another method of preventing future infestations is by creating a barrier of diatomaceous earth around your home’s wooden structures. Fossilized remains of marine organisms create this substance. It acts as a desiccant, drying out the ants and killing them. Diatomaceous earth is safe for humans and pets, making it an effective and reliable solution.

Treatment Options Available From Professional Pest Control Companies

Ultimately, the best way to prevent future ant infestations is by enlisting the help of a professional pest control company. A pest control technician can help you identify the type of ant you are dealing with and recommend the best course of action for your specific situation. 

Pest control companies offer a variety of treatment options, including the following. 

• Insecticides: One of pest control companies’ most common treatment options is insecticides. These chemicals can be applied as sprays, baits, or powders and kill pests on contact or when they ingest the substance. While these chemicals can effectively eradicate pests, they can also threaten human and pet health if mishandled.
• Traps: Another treatment option available from pest control companies is traps. These can include sticky, pheromone, and snap traps designed to capture pests without harming them. Traps are a more humane option for those who do not want to kill pests outright, but they may not be as effective in eradicating a large-scale infestation.
• Heat treatment: Heat treatment involves raising the temperature of your entire home or property to a level lethal to pests. This technique can be particularly effective for dealing with bed bugs, as they are more susceptible to heat than other pests.
• Organic pest control: Many companies now offer organic pest control solutions for those seeking a more eco-friendly option. These treatments use natural products and methods to control pests without harmful chemicals. 
• Preventative treatments: Preventative treatments involve regular pest control visits, even when you do not have an active infestation. They can prevent future infestations and give homeowners peace of mind.

In conclusion, there are a variety of treatment options available from professional pest control companies. Whether you are dealing with a current infestation or just want to prevent one from occurring, a pest control technician can recommend the best course of action for your situation. Don’t let pests take over your home – enlist the help of a professional pest control company today!

Monthly Treatments and Services Offered by Professionals

Monthly treatments and services offered by professional pest control companies can play a key role in preventing infestations from occurring. We have listed the most common recurring services pest control professionals provide below. 

• Property inspections: One of the most effective services professional pest control companies offers is regular inspections. During these inspections, trained technicians will identify any potential entry points for pests, food sources, or other factors that may attract them to your home. They will also create a customized treatment plan addressing your pest control needs.
• Monthly treatment plans: In addition to regular inspections, most professional pest control companies offer monthly treatment plans. These plans involve applying pest control solutions every month in and around your home. Monthly treatments can be particularly effective for controlling pests known to cause property damage, such as termites and carpenter ants.

Monthly treatments and services offered by professional pest control companies can be a valuable investment in your home. By taking a proactive approach to pest control, you can prevent infestations and protect your property and family from the many negative effects of pest infestations.

Conclusion

As you learned in this article, professional pest control companies have the expertise, experience, and resources to effectively identify the ant species, locate their nests, and implement appropriate and targeted treatment strategies. They can also comprehensively assess the infestation, offer long-term solutions, and minimize the chances of recurrence.

Determining when to call a professional pest control company for ant control depends on the severity and persistence of the ant infestation, as well as personal preferences and circumstances. If you are dealing with a minor ant problem that you can effectively manage through DIY methods, involving a professional may not be necessary. However, if the infestation persists, you should seek the help of a professional pest control company right away.