Ants are one of the most common house pests in Monroe. You would be hard-pressed to find a homeowner who hasn't had to deal with ants at some point in their lives. These little insects are found in almost every part of the world, invading homes and causing problems for centuries.
At Guard Pest Control, we are a locally-owned company providing pest control in Monroe for over 20 years. Keep reading to learn the best way to prevent an ant infestation in your Monroe home.
Common Types OF Ants Found In Monroe
There are several hundred different species of ants in the world. In Monroe, we usually only have to deal with a few different kinds. Some of the most common types of ants that you are likely to see in this area include:
- Pharaoh ants: These ants are small and are only about 1/16 of an inch long. They are usually a pale red or yellow and typically have darker-colored abdomens. These ants are commonly found in commercial properties like restaurants and grocery stores. They can also be found in homes and are usually seen around pantries, in cabinets, or in other areas of the kitchen.
- Carpenter ants: The carpenter ants are one of the largest types of ants found in Monroe. An adult carpenter ant is usually close to 1 inch long. Their bodies are typically red, black, or a combination of red and black. These large ants get their name from their ability to use their saw-like jaws and "drill" holes in various wooden surfaces. They excavate the wood to build their nest inside.
- Odorous house ants: This type of ant is one of the most common ant species that are found inside homes and businesses. They measure anywhere from 1/16 to 1/8 inch long and are usually black or dark brown. When they are crushed, they emit a foul odor that smells like rotten coconuts, which is where they get their name.
- Pavement ants: Pavement ants are 1/8 inch long and usually black. As their name suggests, these ants like to nest under and around the pavement. You can generally find them building nests in between the cracks of sidewalks and other paved areas.
The ants in Monroe can be found inside your home and in your yard. If they are allowed to build their nest on your property, it is only a matter of time before they find a way into your home.
The Problems An Ant Infestation Can Create In Your Home
The ants that are found in this area can be both destructive and dangerous. Many ants that can find their way into your home can carry and spread a variety of harmful pathogens. They have been known to spread dangerous illnesses to humans, including shigellosis, E. coli infections, streptococcus, salmonellosis, and clostridium.
In addition to making you sick, some ants can also cause property damage to your home. For example, when carpenter ants move into your home, they will build their nest directly inside a wooden object. Usually, this is a structural beam on your home or some other large wooden surface. Over time, the wooden surface will weaken and even become structurally unsound.
Four Environmentally-Friendly Ant Prevention Tips For Your Home
If you want to keep ants out of your home, you don't have to use unsafe products or try any complex techniques. Some of the easiest ways to prevent ants in your home include:
- Keep a lid on your outdoor trash cans
- Don't leave food out in the open
- Don't let the grass in your yard grow high
- Fix any moisture issues that you have around your home
Another thing you can do to keep ants out of your home is to team up with a professional ant control specialist in Monroe. Having a professional treat your home regularly will help ensure that the ants cannot come into your home.
The Solution To Total Ant Control For Your Home
If you are struggling to get rid of ants around your Monroe home, Guard Pest Control can help you. We use the latest treatments and techniques to ensure that the ants get out of your home quickly and that they cannot come back.
Give us a call today to get your free quote over the phone.