Ants in the house? Few things are more frustrating than finding trails of ants invading your kitchen or living space. At J&J Exterminating, we know that staying ahead of these unwelcome insects can be a challenge, but with the right approach, you can enjoy an ant-free home.
This blog shares practical tips and insights on how to keep ants outside where they belong. Whether you’re looking for preventive measures or ready to take action against an active ant problem, we’ve got you covered.
Why Ants Enter Your Home
Ants are natural explorers. They are constantly on the hunt for food, water, and shelter, which your home readily provides. Even the smallest crumbs, pet food, or leaky pipes can attract these tiny foragers. Louisiana’s warm and humid weather only makes it more appealing for ants to venture indoors.
How to Keep Ants Outside
Step 1: Seal All Entry Points
Ants can enter your home through the tiniest cracks and gaps. Inspect your windows, doors, baseboards, and even utility entry points.
- Apply caulk or weatherstripping around doorframes and windows.
- Use mesh screens or steel wool to block off small crevices.
- Install door sweeps at the base of exterior doors.
Step 2: Eliminate Food Sources
Ants have an incredible sense of smell and are drawn to even the smallest food scraps.
- Clean counters, tables, and floors regularly to remove crumbs and spills.
- Store food in airtight containers to minimize access.
- Avoid leaving pet food or sugary items out for extended periods.
Step 3: Address Moisture Problems
Ants are also drawn to water, making leaky faucets and damp areas a beacon for them.
- Fix plumbing leaks promptly.
- Use a dehumidifier in particularly damp areas like basements.
- Ensure gutters and downspouts direct water away from your home’s foundation.
Step 4: Maintain Your Landscaping
Outdoor plants and wood piles can serve as nesting grounds for ants.
- Trim shrubs and trees so they don’t touch the exterior of your home.
- Keep woodpiles and compost bins at least 10 feet away from your house.
- Regularly clear yard debris and keep your lawn tidy.
Step 5: Use Natural Deterrents
If you’re looking for eco-friendly solutions, consider these natural ant deterrents:
- Lemon Juice and Vinegar—Wipe down surfaces with a mixture of these liquids to disrupt ant scent trails.
- Essential Oils—Peppermint, tea tree, and citronella oils can be applied at entry points.
- Cinnamon—Sprinkling cinnamon at doorways or windows can deter ants due to its strong scent.
Step 6: Set Up Barriers and Baits
Switch to preventive measures with physical barriers and bait systems.
- Lay down ant bait traps near entry points. The bait attracts ants, which carry it back to their colony, eventually eliminating the infestation.
- Apply a thin line of diatomaceous earth around your home’s foundation. This natural powder dries out ants, deterring them from crossing the barrier.
When to Call the Experts
Despite your best efforts, ants can be remarkably resilient. If their numbers seem to grow no matter what you do, it’s time to call the pest control professionals. At J&J Exterminating, we specialize in identifying ant species and crafting targeted solutions to eliminate them for good.
Our Gold Shield 365 program offers year-round pest protection with a combination of Integrated Pest Management techniques. That means we not only remove existing ants, but we also help prevent future infestations using proven baits and physical barriers.
Why Choose J&J Exterminating?
J&J Exterminating has been Louisiana’s trusted pest control partner for over 60 years. Here’s why you can count on us:
- Customized pest solutions tailored to your needs.
- A network of 15 locations throughout Louisiana and Texas.
- A guarantee that our services will meet your satisfaction.
We are proud to offer free inspections and estimates to start you on the road to being ant-free.
Additional Services
Besides ant control, we offer a full suite of pest management solutions, including termite control, rodent control, and bed bug treatment. Our services are designed to give you peace of mind, whether at home or in your business.
Final Thoughts
Keeping ants outside may seem like a never-ending challenge, but with the right mix of prevention, natural deterrents, and professional support, your home can remain pest-free for good. Take steps today to seal up your home, eliminate attractants, and leverage expert knowledge when needed.
For a trusted, effective solution to your ant problems, contact J&J Exterminating today and request your FREE estimate. Our team is ready to help you safeguard your home from ants and other unwelcome guests.
Tags: Ant Control, Ant Control Company, Get rid of Ants
