Home
Pests
Treatments
Service Order
Feedback
Links
Customer Portal
Contact
Hydrex

How to Control Ants


Inside the home we offer both pesticides and baiting. Generally only the ants that come in contact with the pesticide will die, but this happens very quickly. Baiting takes longer to work but can be brought back to the colony and kill off ants who never contacted it directly. Pesticides will be injected into cracks, crevices, and voids. Baits can be put in the wall by removing wall plates, or drilling small holes. Both of these methods are very effective and it is between you and your pest control technician to decide which is best for you.

Outside the home a chemical barrier is sprayed. This kills ants outside, and more importantly keeps them from traveling into your home. Power spraying through vents in homes with sub areas is another step we do to extend the barrier underneath your home. For safety, modern pesticides are designed to break down over time. This means spraying should be done monthly to maintain an effective barrier. During the wetter months granules can be used instead of spray, which are activated and dispersed by the rain, and keep ants from seeking refuge in your home.

FACT: Ants and termites are enemies, and ants actually feed on termites. Ants have been known to carry away termites for breakfast! An ant infestation in your home could also mean you have termites. Since termites don't like light, you generally won't see them until it's too late. If you haven't had a termite inspection recently, and have ants you might want to consider having one scheduled. Ants could be a tip off to a bigger problem.


Things you can do to help:

Some measures can be taken to help control these (and other pests) on your own. Seal or eliminate points of entry from the outside, such as cracks, voids or earth to wood contacts. Also be aware of overhanging branches or other plant life touching the structure, as these provide convenient pathways to your home. Ants and many other pests prefer moist or decayed wood. Be sure to eliminate any water leaks, poorly ventilated areas, or other conditions that may be causing areas of decay. Finally, make sure to seal or clean up any opened or spilled food sources which could attract a these pests into your home.

You can try this homemade bait effective for small ants yourself. Mix together, over low heat, the following items until everything has dissolved.
  • ¾ cup of water
  • ¼ cup of sugar
  • 1-1.5 teaspoons boric acid
When the solution cools you can dab a cotton ball in it, and place in a square of foil where the ants will find it. Be careful to label the solution poison and keep it away from children.



http://www.hydrex.info
Hydrex Pest Control of the North Bay, Inc