By nature, ants like to travel in packs and colonize. For this reason, once you see one in your home, there’s a good chance others are already present or will follow. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to address an ant problem. Once you’ve followed the steps below, don’t forget to contact an ant control team to prevent the insects from coming back.

5 Ways to Banish Ants from Your Home

1. Use Natural Repellants

If you’ve spotted a few ants in your home, consider cleaning the nearby areas with known ant repellants. Certain scents and cleaning agents can keep the insects at bay without introducing any chemicals in your home. Try lemon juice, cayenne pepper, vinegar, or peppermint or tea tree oils.

2. Address Any Leaks

Like any pest, ants are naturally drawn toward easy access to water sources. It is, therefore, no surprise to find ants lingering next to leaky pipes. A good ant control practice is to address any leaks promptly before they attract an army of pests.

3. Seal Off Entry Points

Ants must enter your house from somewhere. Identifying the entry point, if possible, can prevent more from coming in. Caulk any cracks near windows, doors, or other joints in your home, and replace any weather-stripping that has eroded.

4. Trim Back Foliage

Ants—like other insects—can dwell in plant life, so it’s a good idea to trim back any foliage around the perimeter of your home. Since carpenter ants are drawn to lumber, you should also keep any firewood at least 20 feet from your home’s exterior.  

5. Consider Ant Baits

Finally, bait stations are small, simple ant control measures that can be placed around your home. Some varieties contain ingredients such as sugar, along with substances that are toxic to insects. While certain types pose little to no threats to humans, read the package’s warning concerning pets or children.

When it comes to ant control, the best approach you can take is a preventive one. With the help of Allan's of Central Kentucky Termite & Pest Control you can keep invasive insects out of your home year-round. This trusted team has been serving Lebanon, KY, homeowners for nearly four decades. Learn more about their approach to pest prevention online or call (270) 692-2215 to discuss your home’s needs with one of their team members.