ANT CONTROL
Table of Contents
Signs of an Ant Infestation
A few ants on the kitchen counter rarely mean just a few ants. Most infestations start with scout ants finding a food or water source, then leaving a scent trail that brings the rest of the colony behind them. Look for steady lines of ants near sinks, pet food bowls, or trash cans, and check window sills and door frames for small piles of dirt or debris pushed out from nest openings. Carpenter ants leave behind sawdust-like shavings near wood trim, window frames, or inside wall voids, since they hollow out wood to build their nests rather than eat it. Outdoors, small mounds of soil near a patio, driveway edge, or foundation often point to a pavement ant colony nesting underneath.
Risks
Most household ants are more of a nuisance than a health hazard, but a few species create real problems. Carpenter ants can cause structural damage over time as they tunnel through moist or damaged wood to expand their colony, and an established nest can be difficult to fully locate without a trained eye. Ants that trail through kitchens and pantries can also contaminate food and food-prep surfaces as they move between trash, drains, and countertops. Once a colony has multiple satellite nests around the property, DIY sprays tend to scatter the ants instead of eliminating them, which can make the problem harder to solve later.
Professional Treatment
Pestonix technicians start by identifying the ant species, since carpenter ants, odorous house ants, and pavement ants each require a different treatment approach. We trace trails back to the nest, or nests, rather than treating only the ants that are visible, and use targeted baiting and application methods that let worker ants carry the treatment back to the colony. For carpenter ants, this often includes inspecting wall voids, window frames, and areas with past moisture damage. Treatments are family-safe and pet-safe, with scheduling available across NYC, Long Island, Westchester County, and surrounding areas.
Prevention
Wipe down counters and sweep up food debris regularly, especially around pet food bowls and trash cans. Store sugary foods, pet food, and pantry staples in sealed containers rather than their original packaging. Fix leaky pipes and reduce excess moisture around sinks, basements, and crawlspaces, since ants are drawn to damp conditions. Trim back tree branches and shrubs that touch the house, and seal cracks around windows, doors, and the foundation where ants can slip inside.
When to Call Pestonix
If ants keep returning despite regular cleaning, or you notice sawdust-like shavings near wood trim, it’s time for a professional inspection. Pestonix backs ant control treatment with our 3-Month No-Pest Guarantee, with licensed technicians serving homeowners throughout NYC and Long Island.