Termagon Termite & Pest Control Blog

While they might not carry the “ew” factor of pests such as cockroaches or spiders, no homeowner wants to see ants inside their house. The presence of ants usually suggests food, dirt and other messes that have not been cleaned properly. If you notice only a couple of ants, there’s a very good chance that there are hundreds more somewhere just out of sight.

Getting rid of ants is a top priority, but it is hard to do if you do not know what type of ants you are dealing with. With over 700 species of ants active in North America, it is vital to know what kind of ants are infesting your home. Here are some of the more common types of ants you might find in your house:

Pavement Ants

If you see a line of ants in your house, there is a good chance they are pavement ants. Pavement ants get their name because of their tendency to build nests under stones, rocks, driveways etc. They are found close to homes, and if there is a way in, they will forage inside for food. Once food particles are found they will be sure to bring their friends, resulting in a caravan of ants leading outside.

Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are a problem for homeowners because of the damage they cause to wood. Unlike carpenters, these ants do not build anything; they excavate tunnels and chew through the wood in your home, which can lead to serious structural damage. Look for piles of wood shavings on your floor, and listen to the sounds of rustling insects in your walls.

Odorous House Ants

Odorous ants are another type of ant that you might find inside. They are drawn to vegetation, specifically, and will often make their way inside if there are trees or shrubs that are too close to the home itself. These ants get their name due to the ripe, coconut-tinged smell left behind when you step on them. 

Fire Ants

Although mainly found outside in the southern part of the U.S., fire ants have been known to make their way inside, and when they do, they are a real nuisance. It is very hard to get rid of fire ants because they fight back! These red ants bite, and it hurts! If you have ever been bitten by one of these pesky bugs, you’d know it. The bites leave a raised welt with a white spot in the middle, and those with allergies can actually have serious reactions. It is best to steer clear of these guys all together.

Who to Hire for Ant Control – Termagon 

Ants are an extremely annoying pest. Right when you think you eliminated the problem more will appear. Don’t take on this challenge alone, the experts at Termagon are here to help! If you are dealing with ants in your home, the best thing to do is call a professional. We are ready to help you deal with your ant problem! Contact us at Termagon today.