Ants
What are ants?
Like other pests that regularly find their way into our homes, ants have adapted quite well to living close to people. Ants live successfully in nature far away from us, but they also call our yards, gardens, and houses home.
Three of the most problematic ants that find their way into Boise area homes are the carpenter ant, odorous house ant, and pavement ant.
- Carpenter ants: These large ants are destructive. They tunnel and nest inside of wood. In our homes, carpenter ants cause costly structural damage.
- Odorous house ants: These small ants produce big smells. When they are crushed, these ants emit a potent rotten coconut-like odor.
- Pavement ants: Pavement ants are small ants that invade properties in large numbers; their large numbers make them difficult to eliminate and prevent.
A pest control treatment for your Boise home is the most effective way of preventing an ant infestation from overwhelming your property.
Are ants dangerous?
Most ants don't pose a considerable danger to people or our properties. However, that doesn't mean we should allow these tiny terrors to take over. No matter the species, ants spread bacteria, contaminate food, and it's annoying to find ants trailing throughout your home over floors, tables, and counters.
The carpenter ant is an ant that is dangerous in our homes. Though they enter our houses for the same reason as other ants, searching for food, if carpenter ants decide to stay, their nesting preferences cause costly structural damage within Boise homes.
Why do I have an ant problem?
Ants are a problem in our homes because they are constantly searching for food and water, and our kitchens, bathrooms, and pantries offer them what they are looking for.
Our yards may initially attract ants, but our homes more often than not become their endpoint. Once ants discover food sources, they will keep returning until the free food runs out or they are made to stop.
Where will I find ants?
Some ants like to nest in wide, open sunny spaces, but most ants nest in shady, secluded spots.
- Many ants, including odorous house ants, create their nests under trees, woodpiles, rocks, landscaping ties, and in areas of dense vegetation.
- Pavement ants prefer to nest in the soil next to foundations, sidewalks, and driveways.
- Carpenter ants nest in wood, choosing dead trees, tree stumps, or fallen trees to build their nests.
When ants move indoors to nest, you can expect to find their nests in wall voids, under walls, behind cabinets, in structural wood, or even in large pieces of electrical equipment.
Ants aren't pests that try to hide their presence; they are active during the day and night, and homeowners regularly spot them moving throughout their homes.
How do I get rid of ants?
Ants are tiny invaders that can drive anyone crazy as they continuously move in and out of our homes. The best way to eliminate ants from your house and stop them from returning is to put your trust in a professional. At Affinity Pest Control, we have over 20 years of experience solving Boise, ID pest problems. We will provide you with the accurate identification of your pest problems and pest control services for Boise commercial properties and homes that are effective, responsible, and eco-friendly.
We are dedicated to our customers and providing high-quality treatments that are safe for homes, families, and pets. Call today for more information about ridding your Idaho property of ants with the help of the professionals at Affinity Pest Control and our guaranteed services!
How can I prevent ants in the future?
The most effective way to prevent recurring problems with ants is to partner with us at Affinity Pest Control and implement the following prevention tips:
- Make it difficult for ants to forage for food in your yard by keeping lids on trash cans, regularly harvesting gardens, picking up uneaten pet food, and maintaining outdoor eating and cooking areas.
- Avoid providing ants with access to food in your pantry and kitchen by regularly washing dishes, removing trash from your home daily, and regular vacuuming and wiping down surfaces and the inside of cabinets.
- Seal any opening or gaps you discover in your home's foundation or exterior walls. It is also important to place weatherstripping around windows and doors and install door sweeps on all exterior doors. Repair or replace screens that are damaged or loose.