Why Do I Have So Many Ants? A Guide to Ant Control
It’s prime summer season here in Upland, CA, and as the temperatures rise, so does ant activity.
In fact, did you know that many local neighborhoods, from the historic Euclid Avenue District to the serene San Antonio Heights, are hotspots for ant infestations during these sweltering months?
Ants invade homes not because they’re lost but because they’re hungry and thirsty. And Southern California’s heat waves drive them straight to your kitchen and pantry.
If you’ve been spotting these tiny invaders scurrying across your countertops or forming suspiciously long lines, you’re not alone. But don’t worry. We’ll show you how to get rid of ants effectively, why professional ant control makes a difference, and how we at ProCraft can help.
Understanding and Eliminating Ant Infestations in Your Home
Not all ants are created equal, and recognizing who’s crashing your home is key to controlling them. Some of the most common house ants in Upland include:
Argentine Ants: Your typical line-following invaders that thrive in warm areas, often found in kitchens.
Odorous House Ants: They smell like rotten coconut when crushed (yep, it’s as weird as it sounds). They love sugary spills.
Carpenter Ants: These large, destructive ants burrow into wood, causing structural damage over time.
Fun Fact: Argentine ants dominate here because they outcompete native ant species, forming massive “super-colonies.” It’s why their infestations can seem endless unless treated properly.
Why Ants Are Invading Your Kitchen and Pantry
You might think you keep your home spotless, and you probably do! But ants don’t need much to invade. They’re opportunists, taking advantage of any tiny resource you unknowingly provide.
Here’s what makes your home an ant hotspot:
Food crumbs and spills left behind on counters or floors. Even trace amounts of sugar or grease act like neon signs for ants.
Moisture and water sources, such as leaky pipes or damp dish sponges.
Entry points like cracks in your foundation or openings around doors and windows.
Another interesting point to note is that local homeowners near Central Avenue and beyond often mention seeing ants making their way indoors after outdoor sprinklers run. Moisture draws them in, especially during droughts when their usual resources dry up!
How to Get Rid of Ants (For Real)
It’s not enough to spray them on sight or crush a few beneath a paper towel. For real control, here’s what you need to do to get rid of ants:
Seal Entry Points: Use caulk to close up cracks near doors, windows, and baseboards.
Eliminate Attractants: Clean up crumbs, store food in airtight containers, and address moisture issues promptly.
Lay Targeted Bait Stations: Baits are more effective than sprays because ants carry the poison back to their colonies.
While DIY approaches might see some results, they often fall short. That’s because they can’t tackle the root of the problem: finding and eliminating the queen.
This is where professional ant control becomes vital. At ProCraft, we use advanced techniques to not only stop the ants you see but also eliminate their colonies, guaranteeing longer-term relief.
Here’s one more word of caution: spraying store-bought repellents may kill ants on contact, but they can also scatter colonies, making the problem worse.
Why DIY Ant Control Fails and When to Call an Expert
We get it: taking on an ant infestation yourself can feel satisfying. Who doesn’t love a good underdog story against pests?
But there are a few things homeowners usually overlook:
Incomplete Elimination: Baits or sprays might take out worker ants, but queens and larger nests remain untouched.
Misidentifying Species: Different ant types require specific treatments. What works on odorous ants won't touch carpenter ants.
Quick Reinfestations: Without sealing vulnerabilities, more ants will march in.
When should you call the pros? If you’ve tried DIY remedies for over two weeks with no success, or if you’re seeing wood shavings or structural damage (thanks to carpenter ants), it’s time to bring us in. We can handle what DIY methods can't.
ProCraft Is Upland’s Go-To For Professional Ant Control
At ProCraft, we specialize in ridding homes of common house ants and more stubborn species.
Upland’s unique climate puts many homes at risk during peak summer, but we tailor solutions specific to your location, whether you’re near Historic Downtown Upland or living closer to Foothill Boulevard.
Our professional treatments aren’t one-size-fits-all, because your home deserves better than cookie-cutter! Contact us today.
Did You Know?
Ant infestations are astonishingly common in heat-prone regions like Upland, CA. The average Argentine ant colony can contain hundreds of queens and thousands of workers, making it nearly impossible for homeowners to eliminate them alone. Their underground tunnels can stretch over entire city blocks, which is why localized treatments from experts are essential for total control.
FAQ
How can I prevent ant infestations?
To deter ants, seal cracks, keep food stored properly, and address leaks or moisture issues. Preventative professional treatments can also help ensure ants don’t make their way inside.
Why do DIY ant control treatments fail?
Most DIY solutions only kill ants on the surface and don’t deal with colonies or queens. For severe infestations, professional control is the best option.
How do professionals treat ant infestations?
At ProCraft, we identify the species first, then use targeted baits and treatments to eliminate colonies from the inside out. We also help seal entry points to prevent reinfestation.
Are professional ant control treatments safe for pets?
Absolutely. Our treatments are safe for pets and kids when applied correctly. We prioritize family-friendly solutions.
How soon can I see results after professional treatment?
You may notice reduced activity within a few days, with full eradication taking one to two weeks depending on the infestation size.
