Warning! This blog contains content that may be graphic to those with a disdain for bugs!
Ants are persistent pests that can turn your home into a foraging ground if left unchecked. From kitchen counters to bathroom floors, these tiny invaders leave pheromone trails that invite even more ants to the party.
If you’re wondering how to get rid of ants in the house, you’re in the right place. Here’s what works—and what doesn’t.
Different ants require different strategies.
Carpenter ants? You’ll need to go after the nest inside wood structures.
Sugar ants or odorous house ants? Focus on cutting off food and moisture.
Fire ants? Use extreme caution; they bite and sting.
Knowing the species helps determine the best course of action.
Ants are drawn to even the smallest crumbs.
Wipe down counters with vinegar or citrus-based cleaners
Store food in sealed containers
Empty trash and pet bowls regularly
Fix any leaks that create moisture sources
If DIY methods aren’t working, or you’re seeing carpenter ants, it’s time for professional help. Signs you need to call Cal King Pest Control:
Ants return after treatment
You’ve found nests inside wood structures
You see multiple types of ants in your home
DIY baits are ignored
Professional exterminators can eliminate colonies and treat your home to keep ants from coming back.
Ants often enter through the tiniest gaps. Common ant entry points include:
Gaps around windows and door frames
Cracks in walls or foundations
Utility lines and plumbing entry points
Vents and weep holes in brick
Seal these areas with caulk or weatherproofing material to block future invasions.
Spraying visible ants may kill a few workers but won’t stop the colony. Instead:
✅ Use ant baits that the ants carry back to the nest
✅ Place them along trails, near entry points, and in high-traffic areas
✅ Be patient—this method targets the queen ant, which is key to full eradication
Carpenter ants require more aggressive treatment. Signs include wood shavings near baseboards or hollow-sounding walls.
Treat wall voids and wood with professional-grade insecticides
Eliminate water-damaged wood
Use non-repellent sprays that carpenter ants can transfer through the colony
Understanding how ants grow helps explain why infestations spread so fast. A typical ant colony lifecycle includes:
Eggs laid by the queen
Larvae fed by worker ants
Pupae, which transition into adults
Mature ants (workers, soldiers, and reproductives)
Colonies can live for years and expand to multiple nesting sites if left untreated.
Seal cracks and crevices around doors and windows
Install door sweeps
Trim trees or shrubs touching your home
Schedule seasonal pest control services
Use ant bait to target the colony, not just surface spray. Eliminate food sources and seal entry points. For best results, hire a professional.
Carpenter ants require more advanced treatments, including non-repellent insecticides and direct nest targeting. They often nest inside wood.
Smaller infestations may clear in a few days. Larger or hidden colonies can take 1–2 weeks or more, especially if carpenter ants are involved.
Yes—if the queen survives or entry points aren’t sealed. That’s why follow-up prevention and seasonal treatments are recommended.
Want to understand more about ant behavior and colonies?
Read our article on Bite of Ant – What It Means and How Ant Colonies Work
Call Cal King Pest Control at (530) 673-6322
CalKingPestControl.com
