As the seasons continue to change, different pests make themselves known to San Jose property owners. One of these pests is the simple ant. However, ants aren't as simple as most people think since there are actually multiple species of ant roaming around San Jose.
Some of the most common species in the area are:
- Carpenter Ants: Growing up to 1/2 an inch in length, this species is black in color and is most known for its ability to create property damage due to their love of tunneling through the wood. If not caught soon enough, this can result in expensive repairs.
- Odorous House Ants: This ant is fairly small and a plain black in color or dark brown. They only make it up to about 1/4 inch long and release a rotten coconut smell when crushed. They can be found both inside and outside the house.
- Argentine Ants: As a rule, these ants are light or dark brown in color although some can also be black. They travel in groups and possess multiple nesting sites. Due to their large numbers, it's nearly impossible to control their population without professional assistance.
Overall, ants are fairly harmless compared to other pests. With that being said, it doesn't change the fact they belong anywhere else instead of inside your property. Thanks to a large population, multiple colonies, and potential complications, it's key that becoming and remaining ant-free begin with professional ant control.
Get Ahead Of The Problem
Ants roam and travel in search of food and water to bring back to their colony. As such, the easiest way to prevent ants from making your home their home is to limit how attractive your property is to them. Stick to these following tips and you'll be ahead of the problem:
- Food: Ants like your food. They like it a lot. For this reason, you must practice proper food storage and clean up any crumbs lying around. Also, be sure to wipe down and sanitize your counters, cabinets, and other surfaces regularly.
- Remove Water: All pests seek water. More importantly, they seek accessible water. That's why problems like a leaky faucet, roof leak, and other sources of water act as a beacon for ants as well as other pests. Plus, any standing water near or on the property can attract ants inside so be sure to watch for that concern too.
- Trash: Like most pests, ants are attracted to your trash. For this reason, you need to close trash bags, invest in a trash can with a sealed lid, and dispose of trash far away from the building to remain protected.
Now that you've eliminated some attraction points, it's time to look at actual preventative measures. This pest is a tiny insect and can fit through much smaller cracks and crevices than you're likely to be comfortable with. For this reason, be sure to do the following:
- Inspect Screens: Any opening like a window, vent, or other similar entry point needs to be protected by screens. If you don't have any, then invest in them. If you do, then inspect them to ensure there aren't any holes or tears letting ants through without you knowing.
- Seal Power: Besides the previously mentioned openings, they can also slip through cracks in the walls and foundation. Check the perimeter for these cracks and seal them with silicone caulk to remain protected.
Control The Ants With Bay Pest Solution
At first, ants aren't really a big deal. They don't represent a direct threat to you and your health (unless it's a fire ant) so they're often ignored. This is a mistake since they can quickly multiply and overrun your property. Plus, some like carpenter ants can harm your property, and all species can contaminate your food making them an indirect health threat.
That's why our team at Bay Pest Solution is here for you every step of the way. Over the years, we've honed our process to perfection to ensure our customers not only become ant-free, but they also remain ant-free.
Do you need ant control services? Then give us a call at Bay Pest Solution to speak with one of our agents about our professional pest control options or fill out our online form to schedule your free inspection.