We’ve all been there; you’re pouring your morning coffee when you notice a trail of tiny ants marching across your kitchen counter. At first, it seems harmless. You wipe them up, put down a bait trap, and go on with your day. But then they’re back. Again. And again. At some point, it stops feeling like a minor annoyance and starts to feel like a full-blown invasion.
So, how do you know when it’s time to stop battling ants on your own and call in a professional? Let’s break it down.
Early Warning Signs
A few stray ants now and then is normal, especially in warmer months, but a steady trail? That’s a different story. If you’re noticing ants consistently, especially around food or water sources, they’ve likely set up shop somewhere nearby. And where there are a few ants, there are probably hundreds more you’re not seeing.
DIY solutions can help at first, but if you’re finding yourself in a cycle of “spray, wipe, repeat,” it’s probably time to bring in the experts.
When Home Remedies Aren’t Cutting It
Ants are sneaky. They nest inside walls, under floorboards, or even inside appliances. If you’ve tried all the tricks in the book —vinegar sprays, borax traps, sealing every crack you can find —and they’re still showing up, it’s a sign the infestation is beyond the surface.
Think of it this way: if you’re treating the symptoms but not the root cause, the problem won’t go away. A pest control professional can track the ants back to their nest and eliminate the entire colony, not just the scouts.
Watch Out for Carpenter Ants
Some ants are just looking for crumbs. Others, like carpenter ants, are after your home’s wooden structure. These guys don’t eat wood like termites but tunnel through it to build their nests, which can cause severe (and expensive) damage over time.
If you’re seeing larger ants, piles of sawdust, or even hearing faint rustling in the walls, don’t wait. Call someone who can confirm whether you’re dealing with carpenter ants—and take care of them fast.
Flying Ants
Flying ants (called swarmers) are a sign that a colony is mature and trying to expand. If you see them indoors, especially near windows or doors, it’s a big flashing warning sign that it’s time to call pest control. Swarmers can lead to the formation of new colonies, which means double the trouble.
How A&M Pest Control Can Help
At A&M Pest Control, we know how frustrating and overwhelming ant infestations can be. Our local technicians aren’t just trained; they’re part of the community and genuinely care about protecting your home as if it were their own. We’ll identify the type of ants you’re dealing with, locate their nest, and use safe, effective methods to eliminate them for good.
Don’t let ants take over your space. Reach out to us today if you’re on the Cape and need to get back to an ant-free lifestyle!