Ant problems are common in the spring and summer. As colonies emerge and expand, they come looking for food in our homes. Here, they will spread germs and be a nuisance. Luckily, you can get rid of ants with a little determination and know-how.
Here’s how to get rid of ants and prevent them from coming back.
Identify the ant species
First, you must identify the ant species. This will not only determine the best course of action, but what may have caused the infestation in the first place, so you can take preventative action following treatment. Examine the ants closely and do some research online. Then, find which pesticides work best.
If you’re still not sure what you are dealing with, you can always call the professionals at Ant Control Markham or another company near you. A technician can identify the species and treat the problem for you.
Find the nest
The next step is to find where the ants are nesting. In many cases, ants come into the house to find food, but their nests are outside. This is why ant activity is common in doorways and other entrances to the home. See if you can find where the ants are most active, so you can target them more effectively.
If you notice that they are crawling in and out of wooden structures, you might be dealing with carpenter ants, which should be eliminated as soon as possible. Carpenter ants nest in soft wood, which can cause some serious damage. If this is the case, you will need to spray the nest directly. Look for products specifically formulated for carpenter ants and follow their directions.
Set bait
If you are getting rid of carpenter ants, do your best to spray the nest directly. Carpenter ants nesting in a wall void, for example, can be reached by drilling a hole in the wall and applying the pesticide there. For other ants, you can use simple baits.
Purchase a few baited traps from the hardware store and place them in areas of ant activity. Put them wherever you have seen ants, but away from small children and pets. Traps should not be placed near food preparation areas or anywhere they might get wet.
Soon, ants will come gather the bait and bring it to their nests, where their queen and the rest of their colony will consume it. The colony will stop growing once the queen has been eliminated.
Get rid of ant trails
Getting rid of ant scent trails will help to keep ants out, giving you lasting results. In a spray bottle, mix a cup of water with 1/3 cup of vinegar. Then, spray the floor and other areas where you have seen ants and wipe the surfaces clean. Ants that come exploring your home won’t smell any trails and will be more inclined to look elsewhere.
Keep the house clean
It’s important that you keep the house clean during the extermination process. This will encourage the ants to eat bait instead of the food they find on the ground. So, deep clean the house, then maintain it. Vacuum and mop regularly, and always clean up after a meal. Keep food in sealed containers and don’t leave any dirty dishes out on the counter.
Hire an exterminator
Exterminators can not only get rid of pests but carry out preventative treatments, so you don’t have to deal with them again. They have the training, experience, and pest control products needed to get the job done. If you are too busy or the pests are too difficult to handle, give them a call.
