We all know that summer brings sunshine, cookouts, and more time spent outdoors. But when you’re a homeowner, it’s important to remember this season can also bring in an influx of ants looking for food and water. Once they find a way into your home, they can be tough to get rid of. That’s why it’s so important to take preventative measures before ants become a problem. Here are four effective tips to help keep ants out of your home during the warmer months:
1. Seal Entry Points
Ants are tiny, so it doesn’t take much for them to find a way inside. Start by inspecting the exterior of your home for small cracks or gaps near windows, doors, and the foundation. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal up these entry points. Even the smallest hole can act as a doorway for a full-blown invasion.
2. Eliminate Food Sources
Ants are constantly searching food, and your kitchen is often their top destination. To keep them out, make sure to wipe down counters regularly, store pantry items in airtight containers, and sweep up crumbs as soon as they appear. Don’t forget to take out the trash frequently and rinse recyclables before tossing them in the bin.
3. Control Moisture
Water is just as attractive to ants as food. Fix leaky pipes, clear out clogged gutters, and make sure there’s no standing water near your home’s foundation. Even a damp towel left on the floor can attract thirsty ants. Keep everything as dry as possible to make your space less inviting.
4. Keep Outdoor Areas Clean
Ants often start outside in your yard before making their way in. Trim back shrubs and tree branches that touch your home, and keep mulch and firewood stored away from the foundation. Regular yard maintenance not only improves curb appeal, but it also helps reduce the chance of ants migrating indoors.
While these tips can go a long way in preventing ant problems, sometimes they still manage to sneak through. When that happens, it’s time to bring in the professionals. Here at D & T Pest and Termite Control Inc., we’re ready to help you eliminate ants and keep them from coming back. Give us a call at (508) 966-4470 to learn more about how we can help keep your home ant-free this summer.