Ants may not seem threatening, but an ant infestation can have a big impact on your life, whether it’s on the structural integrity of your home or the health and safety of your food. Understanding the problem you’re facing and finding an effective, tailor-made solution is key to protecting your property and your family.

Ant Species of the Pacific Northwest

Each type of ant species has different habits, habitats, and behaviors. The first step of any ant control solution is identifying the species that is inhabiting your home. During your free home inspection, your PestLock professional will make that their first priority.

Odorous House Ants

Odorous house ants are so called because they give off a smell similar to rotting coconut when crushed. They are typically ⅛ inches or smaller and brown in color. They feed on other insects as well as honeydew, plant sap, and human foods.

Moisture Ants

Moisture ants are very small, similar to house ants, and are typically dark brown or yellow. They are attracted to moisture, which is why they tend to build their large nests near water sources like bathtubs, damp crawlspaces, or leaks in your roof.

Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are the species to watch for, as they can cause serious damage to your home. While they don’t eat wood, they will tunnel through it to create a nest for the colony. They are the biggest ant species in the Pacific Northwest and black in color. If you don’t see the ants themselves, you may notice small piles of sawdust or insulation near where they have been tunneling into your home.

Prevent an Infestation

There are ways you can avoid facing an ant control problem in the first place. PestLock can help you with preventative measures, and you can also take several steps on your own, including:

• Clean up food crumbs and particles
• Keep kitchen surfaces clean
• Store food in air-tight containers
• Wipe up spills quickly
• Fix leaking pipes
• Seal gaps in doors and windows

To learn more about the factors that contribute to an ant infestation and what DIY solutions you may be able to use, visit the PestLock blog!

Contact the Ant Control Pros Today

Even the cleanest homes can fall victim to an ant infestation. When you see the signs, whether it’s a few ants in the kitchen or damaged packages in your pantry, then it’s time to call the professionals. The PestLock team is dedicated to keeping homes in Ridgefield and throughout the Pacific Northwest free of ants, bed bugs, rodents, and more, and we have the expertise and experience to implement an effective solution. Call today to schedule your free inspection and learn how we can help!