Pest Control for Ants: Guide for Getting Rid of Ants

Pest Control for Ants: Guide for Getting Rid of Ants

Pest Control for Ants: If you’ve been experiencing an ant invasion in your home, you’re not alone. Ants are one of the most common household pests, and they can be challenging to get rid of. This guide provides tips for removing ants from your home and preventing them from returning. Read on to learn how to get rid of ants for good!

What’s Included in This Article:

The Problem With Ants

Painful Bites and Stings – Ants can bite or sting, causing a painful reaction.

Allergies – Some people may be allergic to ant stings or bites. Symptoms of an allergy include swelling, hives, and difficulty breathing.

Disease – While most ants do not carry disease, some species have been known to transmit diseases like salmonella.

Property Damage – Certain species of ants, like carpenter ants, can cause damage to your home by tunneling through wood.

Food Contamination – Ants can contaminate your food by crawling on it or dropping their eggs into it.

Now that you know the problems ants can cause let’s take a look at some of the most common types of ants homeowners are likely to encounter.

Common Ants Homeowners Are Likely To Encounter

Carpenter Ants:

Carpenter ants are a species of ant that is known for their wood-damaging behavior. Unlike termites, carpenter ants do not eat wood; they simply excavate it to create their nests. Carpenter ants are capable of causing significant damage to wooden structures, and their presence is often an indicator of a more significant problem, such as water damage or rot. Carpenter ants are found worldwide, and their populations can fluctuate based on the availability of food and nesting sites.

Odorous House Ants:

Odorous house ants are a type of ant that is known for their strong, unpleasant smell. These ants are native to the southern United States but have also been spotted in other parts of the country. Odorous house ants are black or brown in color and are about 1/8 inch long. They get their name because they release a foul-smelling substance when crushed. Odorous house ants usually live outdoors but will sometimes come indoors in search of food. These ants are attracted to sweets and fatty foods.

Pavement Ants:

Pavement ants are small, black ants commonly found in urban areas. These ants live in colonies and typically build their nests in cracks in pavement or sidewalks. Pavement ants are often considered a nuisance pest, as they can enter homes searching for food. However, these ants can also be beneficial to the environment. Pavement ants help to aerate the soil and control the populations of other insects. In addition, these ants are an important food source for many animals, including birds. While pavement ants can be a nuisance, it is important to remember that they play an important role in the ecosystem.

Fire Ants:

Fire ants are a serious problem in many parts of the world. These invasive insects are not only highly aggressive, but they can also cause severe damage to crops and infrastructure. Fire ants typically build their nests in open areas, such as fields and golf courses. Once established, they can quickly spread to other areas, making them difficult to control. In addition to causing economic damage, fire ants can also be a danger to human health. Their bites can cause intense pain. If you see fire ants in your area, you should contact a pest control professional immediately. Quick action can help to prevent these invasive pests from causing serious damage.

Sugar Ants:

Sugar ants are a small, black species of ant that is commonly found in homes. Sugar ants are attracted to sweets and other sugary foods, which is why they are often seen in kitchens and pantries. Although they are not dangerous, sugar ants can be a nuisance. They can be difficult to get rid of, and their constant search for food can be messy.

Identifying an Ant Infestation

If you spot a single ant in your home, there’s likely no cause for alarm. But if you start seeing multiple ants or find them in large numbers, it could be a sign of an ant infestation. Here are three other signs that you may have an ant problem:

1. You see ants regularly. If ants are a regular sight in your home, it indicates an infestation. So keep an eye out for them, especially where food is stored or prepared.

2. You find ant nests. If you start seeing ant nests around your property, it’s a definite sign that you have an infestation. These nests can be located in the ground or in trees and shrubs.

3. You see damage from ants. Ants can cause damage to your property as they build their nests and forage for food. Look for chewing damage on wood, fabric, and other materials. Also, be on the lookout for trails of ant activity leading to and from your home.

If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to take action to eliminate the ant problem before it gets worse.

How to Prevent an Ant infestation

It can be quite frustrating to find ants in your home, even more so if they seem to be everywhere. Ants are attracted to food and moisture, so kitchens and bathrooms are often their target destinations. Luckily, you can do a few things to help prevent an ant infestation. First, keep your kitchen clean and free of crumbs and spills. Wipe up any messes right away, and sweep or vacuum regularly. You should also avoid leaving food out and properly seal all containers. In addition, keep an eye out for any cracks or openings where ants could enter your home, and seal them with caulk or another type of filler. Taking these precautions can help deter ants and keep them from taking over your home.

Using Natural Products To Get Rid of Ants

If you’re looking for a natural way to get rid of ants, here are five home remedies that can do the trick.

Vinegar:

Vinegar is a natural ant repellent that can also kill ants. To get rid of ants with vinegar, mix equal parts white vinegar and water. Place the mixture in a spray bottle and spray it on the ants. The vinegar will kill the ants and repel any new ones that try to enter your home. You can also prevent ants from entering your home by wiping down surfaces with vinegar and water. If you have an ant problem, don’t hesitate to try vinegar – it’s a natural, effective way to eliminate these pesky pests.

Borax:

Borax is a natural ant killer that is relatively easy to find and use. While it is effective at exterminating ants, it is important to take precautions when using this substance. First, Borax should never be used around food. It is important to keep Borax away from children and pets as well, as it can be harmful if ingested. To use Borax, mix it with sugar and water to form a paste. Then, apply the paste to any areas where ants are present. The ants will be attracted to the sweet paste and carry it back to their nest, poisoning the rest of the colony. Over time, this will effectively exterminate the entire ant population. However, patience is important, as it may take several weeks for all of the ants to be killed off. For best results, reapply the Borax paste every few days until the ants are gone.

Cornmeal:

Cornmeal may be the answer if you’re looking for a safe, effective way to get rid of ants. Cornmeal is a natural food source for ants, and they will be attracted to it. However, when they eat it, the cornmeal will expand in their stomachs and ultimately kill them. To use cornmeal as an ant killer, simply sprinkle it around the perimeter of your home or wherever you see ants. You can also put it in a shallow dish and set it near ant trails. Once the ants have ingested the cornmeal, they will die within a few days. For best results, reapply the cornmeal every few days until you see a significant reduction in the number of ants.

Diatomaceous Earth:

Diatomaceous earth is a naturally occurring substance that effectively controls ants and other household pests. The tiny particles of diatomaceous earth can pierce the ant’s exoskeletons and cause them to dehydrate and die. To use diatomaceous earth to control ants, sprinkle it around the perimeter of your home or wherever you see ants activity. In addition, diatomaceous earth is non-toxic and safe for use around children and pets, making it an ideal pest control solution for the home.

Citrus Oil:

Citrus oil is a natural, effective way to get rid of ants. Simply mix equal parts citrus oil and water in a spray bottle and spritz any areas where you’ve seen ants. The citrus oil will kill the ants on contact and help repel future invasions. You can also use citrus oil as a preventative measure by spraying it around doorways, windows and other potential entry points for ants. For best results, use pure citrus oil rather than a product that contains only a small amount of essential oil. With regular use, you can keep your home ant-free all year long.

Best Over-the-Counter Products for Getting Rid of Ants

Amazon.com is one of the best places for buying over-the-counter pest control products. So here are the products that ranked highest among Amazon shoppers.

10 over-the-counter products for getting rid of ants:

1. Ortho Orthene Fire Ant Killer1
2. BioAdvanced 502832A Fire Ant Killer Dust Destroys Queen And Mound
3. BioAdvanced Carpenter Ant and Termite Killer Plus, Insect Killer and Pesticide for Outdoors
4. Ortho Home Defense Insect Killer for Lawn & Landscape Concentrate
5. TERRO T901SR Ant Killer Plus Multi-Purpose Insect Control for Outdoors – Kills Fire Ants, Fleas, Cockroaches, and Other Crawling Insects
6. TERRO T1901SR Carpenter Ant & Termite Killer
7. Terminate Termite and Carpenter Ant
8. Bonide BND568 Termite_and_Carpenter_Ant_Killer Insecticide/Pesticide_Concentrate
9. Ortho Bug B Gon Insect Killer for Lawns and Gardens Concentrate
10. Safer Brand 51703 OMRI Listed Diatomaceous Earth

Pest Control for Ants Gone Wrong (Don’t try this at home)

Man tries to kill ants with gasoline and instantly regrets it.

When To Call an Exterminator for Ants

While there are several do-it-yourself methods for dealing with ants, sometimes it’s best to call in the professionals. Here are a few situations when it’s time to call an exterminator for ants:

1. You’ve tried do-it-yourself methods, and they’re not working. If you’ve tried all the DIY methods you can find and still see ants, it may be time to call in the professionals. Exterminators have access to stronger products and will be able to target the problem more effectively.

2. You have a large infestation. A few ants here and there is one thing, but if your home is practically overrun with them, it’s time to get professional help. Otherwise, you’ll just be playing whack-a-mole with the problem.

3. The ants are causing damage to your home. Some ant species can cause damage to your home by burrowing into wood or eating through electrical wires. If you see evidence of this damage, it’s time to call an exterminator.

4. The ants are a health hazard. Some ant species can bite or sting, and some can even spread disease. If you’re dealing with any of these dangerous ants, it’s time to seek professional help.

5. You don’t have time to deal with the problem. If you’re too busy to deal with an ant infestation, there’s no shame in calling an exterminator. They’ll be able to take care of the problem quickly and efficiently so you can get back to your life.

DIY Pest Control Vs. Professional Pest Control for Getting Rid of Ants

Benefits of DIY Pest Control

1. It can be much cheaper to do it yourself. Professional companies will typically charge a service fee plus the cost of their products.

2. Many people prefer to use natural or more environmentally-friendly products when possible. When using a professional service, these methods can often be harder to come by.

3. DIY pest control allows you to control the situation and choose the method of treatment that you feel is best for your particular problem.

Benefits of Using A Professional Pest Control Company

1. Professional pest control companies have the experience and training to quickly and effectively eliminate an ant infestation.

2. They also have access to more powerful pesticides and other treatment methods unavailable to consumers.

3. Professional pest control companies can provide long-term protection against ants and other pests. The long-term protection will give you peace of mind that your home is safe from these unwanted invaders.

Pest Control for Ants Cost

Pest control is a big business in the United States. According to HomeAdvisor, the national average cost of ant extermination is $150. However, we have seen estimates as low as $100 and as high as $500. To get a cost estimate for ant extermination near you, check local pest control companies here.

Conclusion

In conclusion, pest control is important in keeping your home safe from unwanted invaders. There are several different methods for pest control, both DIY and professional. So, it’s important to research the options and decide which option is best for you. If you have an ant infestation and need help, you can find local companies that offer pest control for ants here.

Have you experienced an ant infestation? If so, leave a comment and let us know what worked for you.