Ants Control & Removal Guide
(Sugar ants, Pavement ants, Odorous house ants)*Monomorium pharaonis* / *Tetramorium caespitum*
How They Get In
- Foundation cracks and gaps around utility penetrations — even hairline cracks allow entry.;
- Doors and windows with worn or missing weatherstripping.;
- Tree branches and shrubs touching the building provide direct bridges.;
- Firewood, potted plants, and construction materials brought indoors can harbor entire colonies.
How to Get Rid of Them
- Erase Trails: Wipe down ant trails with soapy water to remove pheromone signals — this disrupts the colony's ability to navigate and forage.;
- Seal Entry Points: Caulk foundation cracks, around windows and doors, and where pipes enter. Trim vegetation away from the building. Install door sweeps.;
- Baiting (Most Effective): Use ant bait stations with slow-acting poison. Workers carry bait back to the nest and feed it to the queen and larvae, eventually killing the entire colony. Place baits along active trails — don't spray the treatment near baits.;
- Direct Nest Treatment: For visible outdoor mounds or carpenter ant galleries, apply dust directly into nest openings. For indoor wall voids, inject through small drill holes.;
- Prevention: Store food in sealed containers, clean spills immediately, fix moisture problems. Monitor for re-infestation, especially in spring.
Prevention & Follow-Up
Seal all food in airtight containers. Clean up crumbs and spills immediately. Follow ant trails to find and seal entry points with caulk. Wipe down surfaces with vinegar solution to erase scent trails. Keep pet food bowls clean and off the floor when not in use.