Ant Control 101: A Helpful Guide For Lighthouse Point Homeowners

Ants are small but mighty creatures, and they have a knack for infiltrating homes, causing headaches for homeowners everywhere. Lighthouse Point residents are no exception to these unwelcome visitors. In this guide from Great Southern Environmental Services, we'll explore the types of ants found in the area, the problems they pose, and, most importantly, effective methods to keep them out of your home. We'll also discuss the best time to call the pros about effective pest control services in Lighthouse Point.

Types Of Ants: Understanding Common Ant Species

Understanding the habits and preferences of common types of ants in Lighthouse Point is the first step toward effective ant control:

• Carpenter ants are large ants that nest in damp or decaying wood. They create smooth tunnels and galleries while excavating their homes.

• Pharaoh ants are tiny ants, about 1/16 of an inch in length. They are pale yellow or light brown and nest in warm, humid areas. These ants gravitate to sweets, proteins, and grease.

• Sugar ants are small and range from light brown to black. These ants are often in kitchens and dining areas. They are attracted to sugary substances and food scraps. 

• White-footed ants are small ants with pale-colored legs and antennae that form large colonies and nest both indoors and outdoors. They're attracted to honeydew-producing insects like aphids and mealybugs. Control requires addressing both the ants and the insects they feed on.

By knowing which species might be responsible, you can take targeted measures to prevent these intruders from wreaking havoc.

Ant Problems: Health Concerns And Property Damage

Ants might be small, but the problems they bring can be significant. Beyond being a nuisance, ants pose health concerns and can cause property damage. 

Ants can contaminate food, leading to health risks. They can damage the structural integrity of your home by nesting in walls, insulation, or even electrical wiring, potentially causing costly repairs. Ignoring an ant infestation can lead to a snowball effect, amplifying both health risks and property damage.

Keep Ants Out of Your Home: Effective Prevention Tips

Prevention is the key to avoiding the hassles of dealing with ant infestations in your home.

Here are a few ant prevention tips to try at home:

• Seal any small gaps around windows, doors, and utility openings.  

• Store food in airtight containers to minimize odors that might attract ants.

• Dispose of trash regularly and use sealed bins.

• Trim branches and plants away from your house so ants do not use them to access your home.

• Certain substances, such as cinnamon, citrus peels, or vinegar, act as natural ant repellents. Sprinkle these around entry points.

These tips will help you discourage ants. However, regular pest control inspections by professionals can identify potential ant issues before they escalate into an ant infestation. Professionals can also apply preventive treatments to keep ants away.

Expert Ant Control: Call Us At The First Sign Of Ants In The House

Despite the best prevention efforts, ants might find their way into your home. Delaying the response can lead to a more extensive and challenging-to-control problem. Consider contacting professional ant removal services at the first sign of ants in your home. These experts have the tools and knowledge to effectively identify the ant species, locate their nests, and implement targeted control methods.

Entrust Great Southern Environmental Services with resolving your ant problem before it gets out of hand. Since the early 2000s, we have spearheaded the use of science-based methods for effective pest control. Contact us to schedule your inspection and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Lighthouse Point.