All About Pavement Ants

Pavement ants invade homes primarily in search of food. They are omnivorous and feed on a wide range of substances, including:

• Sweets (sugar, syrup, honey)

• Grease and fats

• Proteins (meat, cheese)

• Dead insects

These ants are most active at night, foraging for food and leaving behind pheromone trails to lead other ants to the food source. Once they find a reliable food source, they can establish a colony inside your home, typically in wall voids, under floors, or behind baseboards.

Preventing Pavement Ant Infestations

Preventing a pavement ant infestation requires a combination of good sanitation practices and home maintenance. Here are some steps to keep these ants at bay:

1. Keep Your Home Clean: Regularly clean your kitchen and dining areas to remove food crumbs and spills. Store food in airtight containers and promptly dispose of garbage.

2. Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and the foundation. Seal these entry points with caulk or weatherstripping to prevent ants from entering.

3. Reduce Moisture: Pavement ants are attracted to moisture. Fix any leaks and ensure your home is well-ventilated to reduce humidity levels.

4. Remove Outdoor Attractions: Keep outdoor trash bins sealed and away from your home. Trim trees and shrubs that touch your house, as these can provide a bridge for ants to enter.

Managing an Existing Infestation

If you already have a pavement ant infestation, follow these steps to manage it:

1. Locate the Nest: Identify where the ants are coming from and try to locate their nest. Pavement ants often build nests under concrete slabs, in wall voids, or behind baseboards.

2. Use Bait Stations: Ant baits are an effective way to control pavement ants. Place bait stations near ant trails and where you suspect their nest is located. The ants will carry the bait back to the colony, killing the queen and other ants.

3. Apply Insecticides: If bait stations are not effective, you may need to use insecticides. Apply a non-repellent insecticide along ant trails and entry points. Non-repellent insecticides allow ants to carry the toxin back to the colony.

4. Consult a Professional: For severe infestations, it's best to consult a professional pest control service. Professionals have access to more effective treatments and can provide long-term solutions.

Pavement ants can be a persistent nuisance, but with proper prevention and management strategies, you can keep your home ant-free. Regular cleaning, sealing entry points, and reducing moisture are key to preventing an infestation. If you already have ants in your home, using bait stations and insecticides can help eliminate them. For severe cases, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional pest control service to ensure your home remains pest-free.

By following these guidelines, you can effectively manage pavement ants and maintain a comfortable living environment.