There are very few things in this world as wonderful as free food, especially when it is good food. Unfortunately, ants feel the same way. These small scavenging pests will do anything for a free meal, even theft, and home invasion. If you have ever wondered how ant infestations start, here are a few things you should know to keep these pests out of your Moline home.
Common Ants Around Moline
Moline is home to more than a couple of species of ants. Since each is different in appearance, problems caused, and motives for invading homes in our area, here is what you should know about each.
Carpenter Ants: Carpenter ants enjoy stealing food, but this is not the main reason they invade area homes. These large, reddish-black pests invade Moline properties to find places to build their nests. More specifically, carpenter ants look for large structures of wood that are softened by water-damage, rot, or decay.
Pavement Ants: Pavement ants prefer to build their nests around paved areas such as driveways, sidewalks, and the foundation of homes. If possible, these pests will wander indoors to scavenge for food. As the weather gets colder during the fall and winter, these pavement ants may even look for ways to bring their colonies indoors where it is warm and cozy.
Pharaoh Ants: Pharoah ants are one of the few species of ants that spread dangerous diseases. Known for building their nests within the voids of walls, floors, and ceilings, these pests are common around homes and use pheromone laden trails to get to and from sources of food and water indoors.
Thief Ants: Thief ants will either build their nests in soil or within the wood that was recently occupied by carpenter ants. Although these pests cannot destroy wood themselves, they are still a huge nuisance with the way they invade homes and steal food and water.
Odorous House Ants: Odorous house ants are as smelly as they are annoying. Able to build their nests indoors or out, these pests adapt to the weather outside and have no problem invading homes for food, water, or shelter. When squished or threatened, this pest releases a pungent odor many liken to that of rotten coconuts.
The Difficulties In Preventing Ants
It doesn’t take a big opening for an ant to squeeze its way into your home. All these small and clever pests need is a single crack, gap, or small amount of damage to gain access to your living areas. Keeping this in mind, here are a few ways to reduce your chances of an ant infestation this spring:
Find and seal gaps, cracks, and holes in your home’s exterior foundation.
Repair damage to your home’s siding.
Make sure your window/door screens are damage-free.
Install door sweeps under all exterior doors.
Address issues with weatherstripping.
Clean out and repair your home’s gutters as needed.
Eliminate sources of water build up around your property.
Fix leaky piping and fixtures in and around your home.
Use a dehumidifier indoors.
Clean your home regularly.
Avoid feeding your pets outdoors.
Make sure your trash cans have tight-fitting lids.
For an easier and more effective solution to ant problems, let the experts at Quik-Kill Pest Eliminators help. Our team will use advanced, industry-leading pest control technologies to create a lasting defensive barrier around your home.
When ants come knocking, they will have no choice but to stay outside! Contact us today for more information about our year-round pest control options, or schedule your Moline home for a detailed pest inspection.