Calls for pest control service to get rid of ants come pouring in this time of year. Ants are the number one nuisance in pest control in the United States. The majority of the Kansas City area residents have fought their fair share of battles against this annoying pest – whether it’s a nest of pavement ants in the garage or a parade of odorous house ants marching across the kitchen counter. Milberger Pest Control service has been at war with ants in Kansas City since 1936.
In addition to professional pest control service, there are some simple steps that homeowners can take to reduce your chances of unintentionally inviting ants into your home.
Know Where To Look
Kitchens are full of food and water, everything ants (as well as all other pests) need to survive. Bathrooms, bedrooms, living rooms, basements, inside walls, and in/around air conditioning and heating units are also known to attract ants.
Remove Water Sources
Reducing moisture and standing water around your home can go a long way to help prevent ants. Repair leaky pipes and routinely check under sinks for areas of moisture. Consider using a dehumidifier in damp basements, crawl spaces or attics. Outside, ensure that downspouts and gutters are functioning properly so that water flows away from the home’s foundation.
Remove Food Sources
Keeping your kitchen tidy will help to discourage ants from coming indoors. Wipe down counters and sweep floors regularly to eliminate crumbs and residue from spills. Store food in sealed pest-proof containers, and keep ripe fruit in the refrigerator. Wipe down sticky jars, especially any containing honey, syrup, soda or other sweets. Finally, use a lid on trash cans and dispose of garbage frequently.
Seal Access Points
Take time to inspect the outside of your home for easy access points. Trees and bushes should be trimmed away from the home, as branches can provide highways indoors for ants. Seal any cracks and crevices on the outside of the home with silicone caulk, paying special attention to areas where utility pipes enter.
Use A Pest Control Service
Without the proper training and tools, battling ants can be an uphill battle. What’s worse, an infestation can continue to grow if it is not properly treated. Some species of ants can cause serious property damage (like carpenter ants) and others (like fire ants) can pose health threats to your family. Even species that are considered nuisance pests (like odorous house ants) can contaminate food.
For more information about ants and pest control service, call Milberger Pest Control at (816) 761-1313 in Missouri and (913) 384-6760 in Kansas, or click here to request your free inspection.
