Ants are small insects that are known for becoming a nuisance among those who are having picnics, barbeques, and other outdoor events where food exists. Ants are primarily social creatures that form large subterranean colonies (nests). Ants have six legs and antennae, and some colony members have wings.
How should I handle an infestation involving ants inside my home? The best course of action involves contacting a local pest control professional regarding the available treatment options. A provider of residential ant control in Edisto Island will expel these pests from the premises and implement exclusionary measures that will substantially reduce the likelihood of subsequent invasions.
Types Of Ants: Understanding Common Ant Species
What are some of the most common home-invading types of ants found in this region? Property owners on Edisto Island will most likely encounter fire ants, carpenter ants, odorous house ants, and pavement ants. Fire ants range in size from 1/8 to ¼ of an inch long and usually appear reddish-brown. One common indicator of an underground fire ant nest is the presence of a large mound of extracted dirt.
Carpenter ants usually measure about ½ of an inch long and appear reddish-black. Carpenter ants are aptly named because they tunnel into wood to form nesting sites. Odorous house ants have tiny bodies that appear either black or dark brown. Odorous house ants emit an unpleasant odor when crushed.
Pavement ants are another very small species that measures only 1/8 of an inch long. They often create nests along driveways, sidewalks, and other paved areas.
Ant Problems: Health Concerns And Property Damage
Are ants dangerous insects? Homeowners with a fire ant nest in their yard should move cautiously, as those who disturb a nest often find themselves being bitten and stung by a swarm of ants.
Although they may contaminate food and surfaces inside your home, most ant species are largely seen as nuisance pests.
While they are an unlikely health risk, carpenter ants are known for creating costly property damage.
What does carpenter ant damage look like? Carpenter ant activity is often not immediately apparent, as these insects quietly begin tunneling into wooden areas of your home. In many cases, doors or windows become more difficult to open or close, floors begin to bow, and interior walls appear warped. Homeowners might notice “sawdust-like” frass accumulating near the site of carpenter ant activity.
Ant Prevention Tips: Keep Your Home Ant-Free
What are some of the most effective methods of preventing ants from invading your home? Property owners in Edisto Island should consider these tips:
Limit attractants around the exterior of the home by cleaning up all remnants after cookouts and keeping trash in durable, sealed garbage cans.
Look around the external base of the structure for any openings that develop and fill them with a weatherproof sealant.
Keep kitchen floors swept, and countertops wiped down, and never leave dirty dishes out overnight.
Although viable, no ant prevention strategies are foolproof. Edisto Island homeowners facing an active problem with ants should immediately get a hold of a licensed pest control expert. A properly qualified pest management professional understands how to deal with ant infestations and how to stop ants from coming into your house.
Expert Ant Control: Call Us At The First Sign Of Ants In The House
Are you wondering how to get rid of little ants in the house? There is no simple and easy solution to substantial ant infestations; therefore, property owners in this region should promptly contact a local pest control company for assistance.
Apex of Edisto Pest Management is among the leading ant exterminators in Edisto Island. Our team of local professionals will safely and effectively solve problems involving ants. Contact our office today for further details.