Why Ants Come Into Sacramento Homes & How To Keep Them Out

Trail of Pavement Ants carrying a dried leaf.
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Due to ants’ persistent presence, most people believe they’re essentially harmless. The fact is that these pests are dangerous. There’s a great chance your food and surfaces can become contaminated, as these bugs carry bacteria on their bodies. You and your loved ones may end up ill. It’s only more distressing that ants can get indoors easily and multiply with speed. They are not to be underestimated.

While it’s challenging to keep ants out of Sacramento homes, it’s not impossible. With a little reading, you can find out what draws local species in and what their risk factors are. Further, you’ll learn how Pro Active Pest Control can be of assistance. We provide both residential and commercial pest services for ants, bed bugs, rodents, and more.

What Ants Infest Sacramento Homes? What Are the Hazards?

Carpenter, Pharaoh, and pavement ants are quite prevalent in the region. Carpenter ants stand out from the crowd because of their substantially larger size. They are 0.25 to 0.50 of an inch long. Many are red, reddish-black, yellow, orange, tan, or brown. However, the vast majority are black. This species focuses on forging tunnels and nests in wood, which wrecks the material. Logs and trees will be ruined by their activities. Indoors, the concern is with foundations. If you notice that your walls are becoming hollow or you see wood shavings, you probably have an infestation.

Pharaoh ants are just 0.12 of an inch long, if not smaller. These bugs are a yellow-brown shade, but they have black and red marks on their abdomen. If they enter your abode, it’s because they need shelter, food, and water. Accordingly, they will reside in pipe chases, pantries, and food packages. Those are their preferred spots though; they will settle in anything.

As the Pharaoh subgroup, pavement ants are around 0.09 to 0.12 of an inch long. Light-colored appendages protrude from their black or brown bodies. Hence their name, they surround sidewalks and driveways. They often create visible mounds in the bordering dirt and nearby soil, which can damage a lawn. While they favor concrete, they aren’t opposed to patios and decks. Inside domiciles, they tend to congregate in the kitchen. Try not to touch them; they can sting you.

How Can You Prevent Sacramento Ants?

Ant populations are very difficult to control once they’ve infiltrated. They reproduce rapidly and gather in places that are hard to reach. Maintaining preventative protocols is key in warding off these pesky pests. You have to make sure ants don’t have easy access and available food and water. Perform the following tasks:  

  • Seal gaps in utility lines, doors, screens and windows, and foundations.
  • Add sweeps to all doors that face the outside.
  • Have moisture hitches and leaks repaired immediately; particularly if it’s affecting the wood.
  • Use secure canisters for food, trash, and pet food storage.
  • Don’t leave food out in the open, and clean up related messes right away. 
  • Regularly tidy up the kitchen and pantry. This includes dishes, cupboards, and beneath appliances. 
  • Vacuum and take the garbage out often. 
  • Frequently mow the lawn and trim greenery. Sit plants two feet away from the property. 
  • Remove organic debris from the yard.

What Can Pro Active Pest Control Do About Sacramento Ants?

Commercial insecticides often cause ant clusters to scatter and build new nests in even more locations. Plus, they can either be too weak or noxious. You can save money and time with our professional solutions at Pro Active Pest Control. Our ant products are not only robust, they’re eco-friendly and safe. Only trained and experienced technicians will apply them and our services are guaranteed. Call us at Pro Active Pest Control for a free quote today!

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