Snohomish is home to a variety of ant species, some of which can become bothersome pests by invading homes and gardens in search of food or shelter. In order to keep ants from becoming a nuisance, there are several steps you can take to prevent ants and achieve complete ant control. These steps include eliminating food sources, sealing up potential entry points into your home, and continuing regular ant prevention treatments even after the colony is gone. If you already have an ant problem, there are many methods you can try that may get rid of them. Results will vary by the method used and will be different in every situation. Working with a Snohomish pest control company with experience eliminating and controlling ants will provide the most consistent and effective results.
Characteristics Of Common Ants
Common ants found in Snohomish can vary depending on the type of habitat, but there are some characteristics that are common to all species. Ants range in size from very tiny to a little over half an inch long. Common ants have three body parts; the head, thorax, and abdomen. Additionally, they have antennae, a pair of mandibles, two eyes, and six legs.
The most common ants found in Snohomish are as follows:
- Pavement ants are small to medium-sized with light brown or black bodies. They are attracted to food and often establish colonies near homes.
- Carpenter ants have dark brown to black bodies and range in size from 1/4 to 5/8 of an inch long. They build nests in wood, such as trees, logs, stumps, and wooden structures.
- Odorous house ants are small with black or brown bodies and are attracted to sweets.
- Pharaoh ants are 1/16 of an inch long, are light yellow to reddish-brown, and each colony contains many queens.
Ant behavior varies with different species. Some species build nests underground, while others choose above-ground locations. These pests can either be solitary or social, with some species living in colonies containing hundreds or thousands of individuals. Ants communicate visually but also use pheromones and vibrations as trails to help find their way around and forage for food sources. If you continue to have issues with ants, it is best to contact a professional ant pest control company for assistance.
Why Ants In The House Can Be So Problematic
Ants in the house can be a major problem for homeowners. They are small and hard to spot, and it is difficult to maintain ant control in your house without professional help.
One of the most common problems associated with ants is their ability to invade food sources. Food contamination will result in you having to throw out food, which costs you money. Not only can ant infestations wreak havoc on a home’s pantry, but they can also spread bacteria and other pathogens throughout the home. Ants are also capable of causing damage to the house itself. They can burrow into walls, creating structural weaknesses and holes that can lead to water damage or even more severe problems. Some ant species can also cause problems with electrical wiring, potentially leading to a fire hazard in the home.
Five No-Nonsense Ant Prevention Tips For Around The House
Preventing an infestation in and around your home can seem overwhelming, but with a few simple steps, you can keep your house free from ants.
Here are five no-nonsense ant prevention tips for your home:
- Clean up spills immediately.
- Store your food in airtight containers.
- Seal up cracks and gaps where ants can enter.
- Remove any standing water on the property.
- Use natural ant repellents.
By following these simple tips, you can help prevent ant infestations in and around your house.
Professional Assistance Is Key To Total Ant Control
Getting professional assistance from Guard Pest Control is key to effective ant control. Ants can be a nuisance, but with the help of our knowledgeable technicians, the ants in your home will soon be a thing of the past. Guard Pest Control is locally owned and operated and has 20-plus years of experience providing pest control ant treatment for Snohomish residents. Guard Pest Control also offers ongoing maintenance plans to help protect your property from ant infestations year-round. Our technicians will continuously monitor for any signs of new activity and take action if necessary to prevent an outbreak. Whether you’re dealing with an existing infestation or want to be proactive about keeping ants away, the best pest control for ants is Guard Pest Control.
Call us today for help with ants and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Snohomish.