Why Can't I Get Rid Of Ants In The House?

The arrival of spring brings a refreshing relief from a long, arduous winter. Excitement is in the air as flowers push through the ground and trees bud and blossom.

The chirping of baby birds and the arrival of wobbly-legged fawns are always a joyful spring experience. However, not all spring arrivals are met with appreciation.

As we air out our houses, with windows being opened and screens in place, an army of those dreaded, pesky ants begin appearing in our homes. It starts with a few forager ants finding their way inside.

If they find a supply of food lying around, they leave a trail and go back to the colony and spread the word. The next thing you know, there is a constant parade of ants in the house.

All it takes is a little juice spilled on the floor or counter, or a sticky piece of candy lying around in the sofa cushions to attract these pests. Two of the more common attractions are sugar or high fructose corn syrup as well as other dead insects.

The only way to get rid of ants and keep them away is to remove all sources of food and water.

You may think ants are somewhat harmless pests. This is a common misconception as many ants can contaminate food and carpenter ants are a species of ants that actually have the potential to both contaminate food sources as well as weaken your wooden structures.

Why Carpenter Ants are so Hard To Get Rid Of

Carpenter ants are one of those pests that can be difficult to get rid of. These ants are the largest native ant species, they are also the most destructive.

Even though they do not consume wood, they chew into the wooden structure to create passageways, galleries and chambers in which to build their colonies, thus weakening the structure.

There are many over the counter sprays, traps and remedies for the do it yourself homeowner.

However, after many attempts, the ants just keep coming back.

This is because you are only treating the few ants that you see. The only way to eliminate the ant problem is to find the ant colony and eradicate the entire colony.

Home pest control services are only effective when the colony is located and removed.

What's The Best Way to Exterminate Ants?

Maryland pest control companies are strong advocates of preventive measures to reduce the risk of infestation.

American Pest recommends you remove any foliage that is close to or in contact with the walls or foundation of your home.

The shrubs and ivy creates a natural bridge for ants to enter homes or buildings. This is especially true with the carpenter ant.

Also, a thorough cleaning under the stove and refrigerator and inside cupboards and pantries will help reduce food sources and discourage ants from coming in.

Contact American Pest at the first sign of ant infestation and inquire of our quality Preferred Care residential pest control!