Ants are the number one nuisance pest in the United States. With more than 700 species occurring in the country and more than 20 types known to infest homes and other structures, it’s not surprising that so many people report having issues with this pest.
As a provider of ant control services, we understand how frustrating it can be to deal with an ant infestation in your home. Not only do they invade your living space, but they can also contaminate your food, damage your property, and some can even cause painful bites.
Prevention is key to avoiding these problems, and in this blog post, we’ll go over some simple steps you can take to prevent an ant infestation in your home.
1. Know the Popular Hangouts
It’s probably not surprising to hear that ants most frequently infest kitchens. After all, kitchens are full of food and water, everything ants (as well as all other pests) need to survive. Bathrooms, bedrooms, living rooms, basements, inside walls, and in/around air conditioning and heating units are also known to attract ants.
2. Eliminate Water Sources
Reducing moisture and standing water around your home can go a long way to help prevent certain species of ants. Repair leaky pipes, and routinely check under sinks for areas of moisture. Consider using a dehumidifier in damp basements, crawl spaces, or attics. Outside, ensure that downspouts and gutters are functioning properly so that water flows away from the home’s foundation.
Eliminating excess water and moisture attracts a variety of different pests aside from ants as well, so it is crucial to inspect your property regularly.
3. Eliminate Food Sources
Keeping your kitchen tidy will help to discourage ants from coming indoors. Wipe down counters and sweep floors regularly to eliminate crumbs and residue from spills. Store food in air-tight sealed containers, and keep ripe fruit in the refrigerator. Wipe down sticky jars, especially any containing honey, syrup, jams, or other sweets. Finally, use a lid on trashcans and dispose of garbage regularly.
4. Don’t Discount Your Pets
Cats, dogs, and other pets can inadvertently invite ants into your home. Their food and water bowls are an attractant for pests, so be sure to keep pet bowls clean and clean up any spilled food or water promptly. Opt to store pet food in a sealed plastic container rather than the paper bags they often come in, which can be easily accessed by ants and other pests. Inspect dog/cat doors to ensure that pests cannot get through. Remember that ants can fit through even the tiniest openings.
5. Block off or Eliminate Access Points
Take time to inspect the outside of your home for easy access points. Trees and bushes should be trimmed away from the home, as branches can provide highways indoors for ants. Seal any cracks and crevices on the outside of the home with silicone caulk, paying special attention to areas where utility pipes enter.
6. Don’t Go It Alone
Without the proper training and tools, battling ants can be an uphill battle. What’s worse, an infestation can continue to grow if it is not properly treated. Some species of ants can cause serious property damage (like
carpenter ants), and others (like fire ants) can pose health threats to your family. Even species that are considered nuisance pests (like odorous house ants) can contaminate food.
So if you do find ants in your home, contact a licensed pest professional right away. They will be able to identify the ant species, spot likely entry points, and determine an effective course of treatment.
Your Local Pest Control Company
Buzz Kill Pest Control is the premier ant exterminator in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Our state-certified and licensed team has over 30 years of combined experience in the pest control industry, and we guarantee to get rid of your ant problems for good with our safe and effective products and services. We offer customizable plans that fit any budget and situation and offer low-impact and GREEN products to keep your property safe.
Our service plans for residential and commercial property owners include the following:
- Ant Control Services
- Rodent Control, Rodent Prevention, and Rodent Removal
- Termite Inspections, Termite Treatments, and Termite Control
- Bed Bug Infestation Services
- And Much More!
Contact us today to schedule a free pest inspection!