Why are there ants in my house?

Ants seem to appear out of nowhere, but their reasons for entering your home are actually quite common. Food crumbs, forgotten spills, or even a leaky faucet can be beacons to these resourceful scavengers. Regardless of the reason, ants in the house can be a nuisance. 

Are you searching for a lasting solution to your ant problem? Ehrlich offers comprehensive ant control solutions that address the root cause of infestations and provide long-term protection. 

Where do ants come from?

Ants are tiny but determined invaders that can easily sneak into your home. Here are a few common ways ants enter homes:

• Cracks and gaps: Check for small cracks in your foundation or around windows and doors
• Doorways and windows: If not properly sealed, ants can easily enter through doorways or squeeze through tiny gaps around window frames
• Following utility lines: Ants sometimes follow pipes, electrical wires, or other utility lines that enter your house
• Firewood and vegetation: Storing firewood near your house and having overgrown vegetation around the foundation can provide ants with hiding spots and pathways to your home

Prevention is key when it comes to keeping ants out of your home. Here are some tips on sealing entry points that can help prevent ants:

1. Caulk cracks and gaps in the foundation, walls, and around windows and doors 
2. Add weatherstripping around doors to create a tight seal
3. Seal gaps around utility lines entering your home
4. Trim bushes and trees at least 12 inches away from your foundation
5. Store firewood away from your house and on a raised platform

What causes ants in the house?

Do you wonder, “Why are ants in my house?” Ants can be attracted to your home for several reasons, but they primarily search for food, water, and shelter. However, different types of ants have different preferences and nesting habits. For example, carpenter ants seek out wood to nest in, while pavement ants nest in cracks in sidewalks and building foundations, searching for food sources.

Seasonal factors can also drive ants into your house. In the warmer months, ants search for food, water, and shelter from the heat. During the cooler months, dropping temperatures can cause ants to seek warmth and food inside.

Food

Ants are attracted to various types of food commonly found in homes:

1. Sweets: Candies, syrups, and sugary drinks
2. Greasy foods: Oils, butter, and greasy leftovers
3. Proteins: Meat, pet food, and other protein-rich foods
4. Fruits: Fresh fruits and fruit juices
5. Crumbs and spills: Any food particles or spills left on counters, floors, or in cupboards can be an open invitation for ants in the house

Water

What causes ants in the house near sources of water? Ants need water to survive; even seemingly insignificant water sources can attract ants. A leaky faucet drip, condensation around pipes, or a pet's water bowl can suffice. Additionally, moisture buildup around leaks or condensation can signal a potential nesting site for some ant species. They may be drawn to these damp areas for shelter or to establish a new colony. 

Reproduction

If your home provides suitable conditions such as food, water, and shelter, ants may establish nests indoors. Your home can offer protection from predators and adverse weather conditions, making it an attractive environment for ants to reproduce. 

Weather

During natural events or periods of extreme weather, ants may seek shelter indoors to protect themselves and their colonies. These events can also disrupt an ant colony's outdoor habitats, forcing them to relocate to safer environments. Additionally, sudden changes in temperature, especially during seasonal transitions, can drive ants indoors. 

Are ants dangerous?

Ants in the house are not typically dangerous to humans, but they can pose certain risks and cause damage.

1. Property damage: Some ant species, like carpenter ants, can cause structural damage to wood by tunneling through it to build their nests.
2. Food contamination: Ants can contaminate food supplies by crawling over them, potentially spreading bacteria and pathogens.
3. Allergies and stings: Some people may be allergic to ant stings and/or bites, which can cause severe reactions. 
4. Nuisance: Large numbers of ants in your home can affect your comfort and peace of mind.

Addressing ant infestations quickly is essential to reduce potential risks and prevent damage to property and health.

Kicking ants out of your house

Discovering ants in the house can be frustrating. Luckily, there are some ways you can help remove or deter them. 

1. Keep your house clean and free of food crumbs and spills.
2. Seal cracks, gaps, and openings where ants can enter your home.
3. Store food in airtight containers.
4. Place ant baits in areas where ants are active to attract and eliminate them.
5. If ant infestations persist, hire a professional pest control service for complete control.

Contacting Ehrlich for professional ant control is the most effective solution to eliminate infestations quickly and thoroughly. Our technicians have the expertise to identify the type of ants and implement targeted treatments for eradication. Contact us to schedule an ant inspection!