The Many Types of Ants Known to Invade Homes
Ants are among the most common household pests across America, and Northeast Ohio is no exception. The three main types that tend to invade homes here are odorous house ants, pavement ants, and carpenter ants.
- Odorous house ants grow about 1/16 to 1/8 inch long and are typically brown to black.
- Pavement ants measure around 1/8 inch and are brownish-black in color.
- Carpenter ants, the largest of the group, range from 1/2 to 5/8 of an inch long. While most are black, they can also be brown, red, or a mix of both.
No matter which type of ant finds its way into your home, it’s important to address the issue quickly before they become a serious problem.
The Many Problems Ants Can Cause in Your Home
All ant species found in Northeast Ohio are known for being persistent nuisances, but their impact can go far beyond simple annoyance.
Most ants contaminate food and surfaces, especially in kitchens and pantries. Odorous house ants emit a foul, rotten coconut-like odor when crushed or threatened, while pavement ants are aggressive scavengers that will eat nearly anything — and recruit others once they find a steady food source.
Carpenter ants, however, are a different kind of threat. While they don’t eat wood like termites, they tunnel through it to build nests, weakening structural supports over time. If left untreated, their excavation activity can cause serious damage to your home’s framework.
Finding ants in your home — no matter the type — can be unsettling. That’s why it’s always wise to call a trusted pest control provider like Epcon Lane for expert ant control solutions.
Simple Tips to Prevent Ants in the House
Outdoor conditions often drive ants indoors in search of food, water, or shelter. When that happens, proactive prevention can make all the difference.
Here are a few simple ways to keep ants out of your home:
- Repair water leaks inside and outside the house.
- Seal gaps and cracks in the foundation, siding, and around doors or windows.
- Wipe up spills quickly and vacuum regularly to remove crumbs.
- Clean dirty dishes promptly and keep kitchen surfaces spotless.
- Empty and clean indoor trash cans frequently.
- Trim trees and shrubs to prevent them from touching your home.
- Store firewood at least 20 feet away from your house.
These steps go a long way toward minimizing ant activity. However, even the best prevention methods can fail. When ants persist, turn to Epcon Lane for fast, effective ant control near you.
How to Completely Get Rid of Ants in Your Home
The only way to completely eliminate ants is through professional pest control. At Epcon Lane, our family-owned and operated company has proudly served Northeast Ohio for over 75 years. We specialize in eco-friendly, family-safe pest control solutions backed by a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Don’t let ants take over your home. Contact Epcon Lane today for a free quote and learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services across Northeast Ohio.
