Practical Ways to Keep Ants Out
Ants are fascinating creatures in nature, but when they invade your living or working space, they can become quite a nuisance. Fortunately, there are several practical and effective ways to keep ants at bay and prevent them from infiltrating your home or business. Here are some strategies recommended by Sentinel Pest Control to help you keep those pesky ants out.
Seal Entry Points
Ants can find their way into your space through even the tiniest cracks and gaps. Inspect your doors, windows, and foundation for any openings and seal them properly using caulk or weatherstripping. Pay attention to areas where utility pipes enter your building and seal those gaps as well.
Keep a Clean Environment
Ants are attracted to food and water sources, so maintaining cleanliness is crucial. Wipe down countertops, tables, and floors regularly to eliminate crumbs and spills. Make sure to store food in airtight containers and promptly clean up any spills or food debris. Additionally, empty trash cans frequently and keep them tightly sealed.
Remove Accessible Food Sources
Ants are relentless in their search for sustenance. Don’t make it easy for them to find food in your home or business. Clean up pet food bowls after your furry friends have finished eating and consider using elevated bowls with a moat of water to prevent ants from reaching the food. Keep fruit bowls covered or in the refrigerator, and promptly clean up any fallen fruit from trees or plants near your building.
Employ Natural Deterrents
Certain substances act as natural ant deterrents. Sprinkle powdered cinnamon, black pepper, or cayenne pepper along ant trails and entry points to repel them. Another option is to use a mixture of vinegar and water as a cleaning solution, as ants dislike the smell of vinegar. Ants are reluctant to cross certain substances. Placing barriers at entry points can deter them from entering your space. Try creating barriers using substances such as diatomaceous earth, baby powder, or petroleum jelly. Spread these barriers near windows, doors, and other entry points to create a deterrent for ants. Read Country Living magazine article “22 Ways to Get Rid of Ants.”
Remove Standing Water
Moisture attracts ants, so fix any leaky pipes or faucets and ensure that areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms and kitchens, are kept dry. Pay attention to areas near windowsills and basements as well, as these areas can be prone to dampness. This is especially important during dry summer seasons as ants need water to survive just like we do.
Trim Vegetation
Ants often use tree branches and shrubs as highways into your building. Keep vegetation trimmed and ensure that branches do not touch or overlap with the structure of your home or business. This reduces the likelihood of ants finding their way inside. Avoid using climbing vegetation like clematis or ivy close to your exterior walls as it is an invitation for ants to invade.
Call Professional Help
If you’re dealing with a persistent ant problem that you can’t seem to resolve, it may be time to seek professional assistance. Pest control experts like Sentinel Pest Control (Kitchener-Waterloo) has the knowledge and experience to identify the ant species and implement effective solutions tailored to your situation. Sentinel Pest Control has decades of experience and has refined their methods and products in the commercial pest control environment. They are Southern Ontario’s best choice for Offices, Warehouses, manufacturing, pharmaceutical, food production, restaurants, and box store pest control. If your business is fighting a loosing battle against ants call Sentinel today.
By following these practical strategies, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of ants invading your home or business. Remember, consistency is key, as prevention is always more manageable than dealing with a full-blown infestation. Stay vigilant and enjoy an ant-free living or working environment!
