Ants are among the most common household pests that invade homes, yards, and workplaces. They enter through tiny cracks and crevices in search of food, water, and shelter.
While some ant species are relatively harmless, others can cause damage to property, contaminate food, and even pose health risks. The key to effective ant control lies in understanding how pest control professionals eliminate ants and prevent future infestations.
This article explores how pest control professionals get rid of ants using various methods, including natural and chemical treatments, and what steps can be taken to prevent them from returning. We’ll also discuss how to recognise an ant infestation and when to call in the professionals for help.
Let’s get straight to the point
Pest control professionals eliminate ants by identifying the species, targeting the colony, and using a combination of natural and chemical methods. Common ant species include carpenter ants, which can cause structural damage, and fire ants, which are aggressive and can pose health risks.
Natural control methods involve using essential oils, diatomaceous earth, and borax-based baits, which can repel or kill ants without chemicals. For larger infestations, chemical treatments such as ant baits, insecticide sprays, and granular insecticides are used to destroy the entire colony, including the queen.
The key is not just killing visible ants but ensuring the queen and the nest are eliminated to prevent future infestations.
After treatment, preventive measures such as sealing entry points, maintaining cleanliness, removing standing water, and keeping yards well-maintained are essential for keeping ants away.
If dealing with large infestations or destructive species like carpenter or fire ants, professional pest control services are recommended for long-term solutions.
Identifying the Type of Ant
The first step in effective pest control is identifying the type of ant causing the problem. Not all ants are the same, and different species may require different approaches to control.
Pest control experts are trained to distinguish between species, which helps them select the most effective treatment.
Common Types of Ants
- Carpenter Ants: These ants can cause significant structural damage by tunnelling into wood to create nests. They don’t eat wood like termites, but their nesting habits can weaken the integrity of buildings over time.
- Fire Ants: Known for their aggressive behaviour and painful stings, fire ants can pose a serious health risk, especially for individuals who are allergic to their venom. Fire ant colonies are difficult to eradicate without professional help.
- Sugar Ants: Also known as odorous house ants, these ants are attracted to sweets and greasy foods. While they do not cause structural damage, they can contaminate food and spread bacteria in kitchens and pantries.
- Pharaoh Ants: These small yellow ants can be found in hospitals, homes, and other buildings. They are particularly challenging to control because of their ability to establish multiple colonies in a short amount of time.
Once the ant species is identified, pest control professionals can choose the appropriate methods to eliminate them and prevent them from returning.
Signs of an Ant Infestation
Recognising the early signs of an ant infestation can help prevent the problem from escalating. Here are some key indicators that you may have an ant infestation:
1. Live Ants
If you see a few ants in your home, this could be an early warning sign of a larger infestation. Ants often send out scout ants to search for food, and if these scouts find something they like, they will leave a trail for others to follow. A sudden appearance of ants in large numbers usually indicates the presence of a nearby colony.
2. Ant Trails
Ants leave behind pheromone trails to communicate with other ants in their colony. These trails help guide worker ants to food sources. If you notice ants moving in a well-defined line, following one another closely, it’s a clear sign that they have established a food source in your home.
3. Ant Nests
Ant nests can be found both inside and outside homes. Outdoor nests often resemble small piles of dirt, while indoor nests may be hidden in wall voids, behind baseboards, or under floors. Carpenter ants, in particular, leave behind wood shavings or “frass,” which is a clear sign of structural damage.
4. Food Contamination
Ants are constantly searching for food. If you find ants in your pantry, on your countertops, or in food storage areas, it’s a sign that they’ve found a food source and are likely establishing a colony nearby.
How Pest Control Professionals Get Rid of Ants
Pest control professionals use a combination of natural and chemical methods to eliminate ants. The goal is not only to kill the ants you see but also to destroy the colony, including the queen. Here are the main methods used by pest control experts:
Natural Ant Control Methods
Natural methods are often used when homeowners prefer non-toxic treatments or when the infestation is small. These methods can be effective in controlling ants without using harsh chemicals, making them safer for homes with pets and children.
1. Essential Oils
Certain essential oils are known to repel ants. Pest control professionals may use oils such as peppermint, tea tree, or eucalyptus to create barriers that deter ants from entering your home. These oils are applied to common entry points like windows, doors, and baseboards. The strong scent disrupts the ants’ scent trails and prevents them from finding food.
2. Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder made from crushed fossils of marine organisms. It works by dehydrating ants, causing them to die. Pest control professionals spread diatomaceous earth in areas where ants are frequently seen, such as along baseboards, under sinks, and around the perimeter of the home. This method is safe for humans and pets but lethal to ants.
3. Borax and Sugar Bait
A mixture of borax and sugar is a natural ant killer that is highly effective. The sugar attracts ants, and the borax acts as a poison. Worker ants carry the borax-laced bait back to the colony, where it is shared with other ants, including the queen. Over time, the entire colony is wiped out. Pest control experts strategically place these baits in areas where ants are active.
Chemical Ant Control Methods
For more severe infestations or when dealing with aggressive ant species, chemical treatments may be necessary. Pest control professionals have access to powerful insecticides that can eliminate ants quickly and effectively.
1. Ant Baits
Ant baits are commonly used in professional pest control. These baits contain a slow-acting poison combined with attractants like sugar or protein. The worker ants carry the bait back to the colony, where it is fed to the queen and other ants. Over time, the poison spreads throughout the colony, eventually killing the entire nest. Bait stations are placed in strategic locations where ants are active, such as kitchens or along ant trails.
2. Insecticide Sprays
Insecticide sprays are used to kill ants on contact and to treat areas where ants are entering the home. Pest control professionals apply these sprays along baseboards, doorways, windows, and other entry points. While sprays can kill visible ants, they are usually used in combination with other methods like baits to ensure the entire colony is eradicated.
3. Granular Insecticides
Granular insecticides are used primarily for outdoor ant control. These granules are spread around the perimeter of the home and in ant nests. When ants come into contact with the granules, they are killed. Granular insecticides are especially effective for preventing ants from entering the home by creating a barrier around the property.
Targeting the Colony
The most important aspect of professional ant control is eliminating the colony, including the queen. Killing a few ants on the surface will not solve the problem, as the queen will continue to produce new workers. Pest control experts focus on targeting the nest and destroying the queen to ensure the colony is completely eradicated.
- Baits: Baiting is one of the most effective methods for colony elimination. Worker ants carry the bait back to the nest, where it is distributed among the colony members, including the queen.
- Sprays: While sprays can kill ants on contact, they may not reach the queen or the nest. This is why sprays are often used in conjunction with baiting for a more comprehensive solution.
Preventive Measures After Treatment
After eliminating the ants, pest control professionals will recommend preventive measures to stop future infestations. Keeping your home and property clean and well-maintained can go a long way in preventing ants from returning.
1. Seal Entry Points
Ants can enter homes through tiny cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and foundations. Pest control experts recommend sealing these entry points with caulk or another appropriate material to prevent ants from gaining access to your home.
2. Maintain a Clean Home
Ants are attracted to food, especially sugary or greasy substances. Keeping your kitchen clean and free of crumbs is crucial to preventing future infestations. Wipe down countertops, sweep floors, and store food in airtight containers. Additionally, take out the rubbish regularly and clean up any spills immediately.
3. Remove Standing Water
Ants need water to survive, so eliminating sources of standing water is essential. Fix any leaks in pipes, faucets, or drains, and ensure that your home is properly ventilated to prevent moisture buildup. Removing water sources can significantly reduce the chances of ants returning.
4. Yard Maintenance
Ants often build their nests outdoors before moving inside. Keeping your yard well-maintained can prevent ants from setting up colonies near your home. Trim bushes, remove leaf piles, and ensure proper drainage in your yard. You may also want to consider treating your yard with a granular insecticide if you have a recurring ant problem.
When to Call a Professional
While DIY methods can be effective for small ant problems, large infestations or destructive species like carpenter ants or fire ants require professional pest control. Pest control experts have the tools, knowledge, and experience to eliminate ants quickly and prevent long-term damage to your home.
Carpenter Ants
If you suspect a carpenter ant infestation, it’s essential to call a pest control professional immediately. Carpenter ants can cause significant structural damage, and eliminating them often requires specialised treatments.
Fire Ants
Fire ant infestations are particularly dangerous due to their aggressive nature and painful stings. Professional pest control is necessary to safely and effectively remove fire ants from your property.
Conclusion
Pest control professionals use a combination of natural and chemical methods to get rid of ants and prevent future infestations. Identifying the type of ant and targeting the entire colony, including the queen, is crucial for effective control.
Natural methods like essential oils, diatomaceous earth, and borax baits are effective for small infestations, while chemical treatments such as ant baits, sprays, and granular insecticides are necessary for larger colonies or aggressive species.
Preventive measures, such as sealing entry points, maintaining cleanliness, removing standing water, and keeping your yard in good condition, can help prevent ants from returning.
If you’re dealing with a large infestation or a species like carpenter or fire ants, calling a professional pest control service is the best way to ensure the infestation is fully eradicated and your home remains ant-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is Professional Expertise Necessary For Ant Control?
Certified technicians with specialised knowledge and advanced equipment guarantee the thorough eradication of ants. Unlike DIY methods, which may offer only superficial solutions, professionals delve into the root causes of infestations, ensuring a comprehensive and lasting resolution to the ant problem in your living space.
Can Ants Pose Health Risks?
Certain ant species, like carpenter ants, can cause structural damage, and ants may genera, only carry diseases. Professional pest control helps mitigate these risks.
What Distinguishes Professional Pest Control From Diy Solutions?
Professional pest control offers expertise, specialised equipment, and targeted strategies that surpass the capabilities of DIY methods. Certified technicians provide a comprehensive and lasting solution to ant infestations.
Can Ants Become Resistant To Certain Control Methods Over Time?
Ants may develop resistance to specific control methods, emphasising the importance of varied approaches. Professional pest control services adapt their strategies to ensure continued effectiveness.
Is It Possible To Prevent Ant Infestations Before They Occur?
Yes, proactive measures, such as regular inspections, maintaining cleanliness, and implementing preventive treatments, can significantly reduce the likelihood of ant infestations in your home.
