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Ants are among the most common household pests and can be quite a nuisance. They invade our homes and gardens and often come in large numbers, making it difficult to get rid of them.
This article will discuss the common types of ant infestations, their causes, and how to prevent them. Once you learn these, ant pest control will be a cakewalk.
Common Types of Ant Infestations
There are many ant infestations, but here are some of the most common types to be wary of.
Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants are one of the most common types of ant infestations. Moist and decaying wood attract these ants. These ants often nest in wooden structures like walls, ceilings, and floors.
Carpenter ants do not eat wood, but they will create tunnels and galleries, which can weaken the structure of your home.
Fire Ants
Fire ants are another common type of ant infestation. You can see them frequently in warm and humid environments, and they often nest in soil, under rocks, or in mounds. Fire ants can induce painful bites and stings, which can cause severe allergic reactions in some people.
Odorous House Ants
Odorous house ants are tiny brown or black ants attracted to sweet and greasy foods. They are often found in kitchens and pantries and sometimes form large colonies in wall voids or under floors.
Pharaoh Ants
Pharaoh ants are yellow or light brown ants that often come to sweets and greasy foods. You often find them in kitchens, hospitals, and other areas with a constant food and moisture supply.
Pharaoh ants carry and transmit disease-causing organisms, making them a significant health hazard.
Pavement Ants
These ants are small, dark brown or black. You can see them commonly on sidewalks or driveways. Pavement ants can easily enter your home through cracks in your foundation or walls.
Causes of Ant Infestations
After the types of ant infestations, it is essential to learn what attracts them. Here are the three most frequent causes.
Moisture
One of the leading causes of ant infestations is moisture. Ants need water to survive, and thus they often find moist environments. Leaking pipes, clogged gutters, and wet soil around your home’s foundation can provide ideal conditions for ants to thrive.
Food Sources
Various food sources, including sweet and greasy foods, crumbs, and pet food, can attract ants. Leaving food on the counter or not properly storing it can draw ants to your home. In addition, food spills and crumbs can also provide a ready supply of food for ants.
Access Points
Ants are small and can enter your home through tiny cracks and openings. Even the smallest openings, such as gaps around windows and doors, can allow ants to enter your home.
How to Prevent Ant Infestations
Now you should learn how to eliminate the causes of ant infestations in your home. Follow the below steps in general, and hire a professional ant pest control if necessary,.
Maintain Cleanliness
One of the best ways to prevent ant infestations is to maintain cleanliness in your home. Wipe down counters, sweep up crumbs regularly, and store food in sealed containers. This will eliminate any food sources for ants and make your home less attractive to them.
Fix Moisture Issues
Eliminating moisture issues in your home is another important step in preventing ant infestations. Repair leaking pipes and faucets, and ensure your home has proper ventilation to prevent excess moisture buildup.
Seal Access Points
Sealing access points is crucial to prevent ant infestations in your home. Ants can enter your home through small cracks and gaps in windows, doors, and walls, so it is important to seal these areas with caulk or weatherstripping.
Check for any gaps around pipes or electrical wires entering your home and seal them. You can create a barrier to keep ants out of your home and prevent them from finding a way in by blocking these access points.
Professional Pest Control
You may need to call in professional ant pest control if you have a persistent ant infestation.
A professional ant pest control in Melbourne will be able to identify the type of ant infestation you have and provide effective treatment options to eliminate the problem at its root.
Eliminate standing water
Removing standing water is another way to prevent ant infestations. Ants need water to survive, so fixing any leaky pipes or faucets and emptying any standing water outside is crucial.
Make sure your gutters are clean, free of debris, and have a proper water flow. You can also check for any areas in your yard collecting standing water, such as birdbaths or flowerpots, and empty them regularly.
Trim vegetation
Trimming vegetation is an effective way to prevent ant infestations in your home. Ants can use plants and trees to climb into your home, so always keep your vegetation trimmed.
Prune any branches or bushes touching your home, and remove any plants or trees that are too close. It will create a barrier between your home and the ants, making it difficult for them to enter.
Use ant repellents
You can use several natural ant repellents, including vinegar, cinnamon, and peppermint. You can also use chemical ant baits and sprays, but be sure to read the label and follow the instructions carefully.
Clear out garbage
Regularly taking out the rubbish is important in preventing ant infestations in your home. Ensure your dust bins have tight-fitting lids to keep the ants out. Avoid leaving food scraps or trash around your home, and dispose of any food waste immediately.
Conclusion
Ant infestations can be frustrating, but by understanding the common types and causes, you can take action to prevent them. Maintaining cleanliness, fixing moisture issues, sealing access points, and calling in professional pest control when necessary can help.
RF Pest Management is one of the most efficient ant pest control services in Melbourne. Reach out to them whenever you need help.
