5 Signs That There Are Ants in Your Home

Ants are one of the most common household pests, and although they are small, they can quickly become a nuisance. They tend to invade homes in search of food, water, and shelter. If left unchecked, an ant problem can escalate quickly, leading to potential damage to your home and food supply.

In this article, we’ll discuss 5 signs that you have ants in your home and what you should do about it. If you’re dealing with an infestation, don’t hesitate to call PPestControl at (866) 228-5691 for professional ant control.

1. Ant Trails Around Your Home

One of the most obvious signs that you have ants is the sight of trails leading to and from specific areas in your home. Ants often travel in a line, following a scent trail that they leave behind as they search for food.

What to look for:

• Visible Trails: If you see a line of ants walking along countertops, floors, or walls, they are likely following a trail to a food source.
• Consistent Movement: The trail will often remain consistent, with ants marching in a straight line to and from the food source.
• Direction: The ants usually move from the nest to the food and back, creating a clear path for others to follow.

Action to Take:

• Trace the trail back to the source of the ants.
• Seal off the area where they are entering and clean up any food crumbs, spills, or other attractants.

2. Ants Found Near Food Sources

Ants are most attracted to food and water, especially sugary substances, grease, and pet food. If you find ants near your kitchen or pantry, it’s a clear indication that you have an ant problem.

What to look for:

Action to Take:

• Clean up food spills and crumbs immediately.
• Store food in airtight containers and avoid leaving pet food unattended.
• Wipe down surfaces with soapy water or vinegar to remove scent trails.

3. Visible Ant Nests or Mounds Outside Your Home

While ants usually come indoors in search of food, many species build their nests outside. If you find small mounds of dirt near your home’s foundation, it could be a sign of an ant nest nearby.

What to look for:

Action to Take:

• Treat the outdoor nests with an appropriate insecticide or call a pest control professional to help eradicate them.
• Seal any cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and foundations to prevent ants from entering your home.

4. Ants Inside Walls or Ceilings

In some cases, ants don’t just appear on your countertops or floors; they may also infest hidden spaces, such as inside walls or ceilings. This is more common with certain types of ants, like carpenter ants, which are known to tunnel into wood.

What to look for:

Action to Take:

• Inspect areas of wood damage for signs of ant tunnels.
• Call PPestControl for a professional inspection if you suspect ants are nesting inside your walls or ceiling.

5. Ants in Unusual Places (Bathroom or Bedroom)

While ants are commonly found in kitchens and dining areas, they can also invade other rooms in your home, including bathrooms and bedrooms. This could be a sign that their nest is nearby or that they’re simply exploring new areas in search of food.

What to look for:

Action to Take:

• Eliminate any food or water sources in these areas.
• Keep bathroom sinks dry and close trash cans tightly.
• Inspect your home for entry points and seal cracks around windows and doors.

Quick Checklist: 5 Signs That There Are Ants in Your Home

Conclusion

Ants are persistent and resourceful pests, but recognizing the signs early can help you take swift action to control them. If you notice any of the signs listed above, take the necessary steps to eliminate food sources, seal entry points, and address outdoor nests. If the problem persists or you need professional help, call PPestControl at (866) 228-5691. Our experts are ready to assist you in managing and eradicating your ant infestation effectively.