Ants
Ant trail from nest to food source.
Improperly sealed food can lead to serious ant issues.
Leaving used dishes out can provide plenty of resources for colonies.
Fire Ant mound in the grass.
Ants enter homes in search of food, water, and harborage. In the dry summer months, ant infestations are the most common as they are in constant search for water. This is the reason ants are commonly found in and around water sources (e.g. sinks, drains, toilets, pet water bowls). Once a water supply is established, ants go in search for a source of food. Ant food sources can be widely ranged from leftovers from the night before to crumbs in the back of the pantry. If you are seeing ants, your first priority is to remove their food source. Most ant infestations originate outdoors, and our pest control tech will point out potential problem areas around the structure as well as any recommendations that could aid in gaining control of the issue.
Please refer to our tips on how to control ant's food and water supplies. It is very important to stop ants before they establish trails inside your home. Once established, ants are much more difficult to control.
+ Tips to prevent Infestation
Interior:
o Remove kitchen waste daily
o Sanitize hard kitchen surfaces daily, including cleaning dishes and running dishwasher daily
o Do not leave food out on counter tops, or leave dirty dishes overnight
o Have lidded trash bins, and make sure to keep them closed
o Seal pet food containers and consider feeding pets indoors. Clean food bowl after each use.
o Clean out pantry and put food items in airtight containers and wipe shelves
o Clean drains on a regular basis
o Store fruit and vegetables in the refrigerator
o Remove and dispose of animal waste in outdoor garbage
Exterior:
o Keep your yard mowed and flower beds that are close to structures clean to prevent areas of nesting and feeding
o Adjust sprinklers to not have excess moisture
o Properly screen garage vents, doors, and windows
o Install weather stripping around doors, windows, and garage car door
o Seal holes around wires, conduits, pipes, and other holes leading into structure
o Clean up yard waste, including leaf and mulch piles, and other vegetation
o Check for leaks in plumbing
o Be sure to drain excess water from potted plants
