Ant Control – What You Should Know
Why they appear, what attracts them, and when to take action.
Seeing ants at home is frustrating, but prevention and targeted treatment are possible.
Where Ants Come From
Seasonal behavior
As Northern Ontario warms in spring and summer, ants forage aggressively and expand colonies. Winged “swarmers” can appear during mating flights.
Entry points
Ants exploit hairline cracks in foundations, gaps around windows/doors, utility penetrations, and even along tree branches touching the house.
Colonies & satellite nests
Some species (e.g., carpenter ants) create multiple nests, including moist areas inside walls, under floors, or around window frames.
What You Can Do at Home
- Wipe up spills and grease immediately; store sugar, cereal, and pet food in sealed containers.
- Rinse recyclables; keep compost and garbage tightly closed.
- Fix moisture issues: leaks, condensation, damp wood, or poorly ventilated bathrooms.
- Trim shrubs/branches so they don’t touch the house; keep mulch/soil pulled back from siding.
- Seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and utility lines with weather-resistant caulk.
- Use baits correctly (near foraging trails, not on top of them) and avoid chasing with strong sprays that scatter colonies.
What Attracts Them to Homes
- Food sources: Sugary foods, proteins/grease, crumbs, and pet dishes left out.
- Moisture: Leaky plumbing, damp wood, and humid crawlspaces or basements.
- Shelter & access: Landscape bridges (plants touching walls), clutter along baseboards, and unsealed gaps.
Why Ants Are A Concern
Property risks
Carpenter ants excavate damp or decayed wood, weakening structural elements if left untreated.
Hygiene issues
Foraging ants can contaminate food and surfaces as they move between kitchens, garbage, and outdoors.
Rapid breeding
Large colonies, multiple queens, and satellite nests make DIY control difficult; partial treatments often push ants to new areas.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I tell if they’re carpenter ants or pavement/sugar ants?
Carpenter ants are larger (often 6–13 mm), with evenly rounded thoraxes and elbowed antennae; you may see coarse wood shavings near activity. Smaller species trail in lines to sweets or grease. We confirm species on inspection.
Why do ants return after I spray?
Contact sprays kill foragers you see but don’t reach queens or hidden nests. Baiting and targeted treatments carry active ingredients back to the colony for long-term control.
Do carpenter ants always mean structural damage?
Not always. They prefer damp/decayed wood. We inspect for moisture sources and recommend repairs if needed.
How long until I see results?
You may see increased activity around baits for a few days; noticeable reduction typically occurs within 7–14 days, depending on species and colony size.
Are treatments safe for kids and pets?
Yes—when used as labeled and with our guidance on placement and re-entry. We prioritize baits and targeted applications to minimize exposure.
What should I do before a visit?
Clean food residues, secure trash, note the most active trails/rooms, and clear access to baseboards, sinks, and appliance edges.