THE ALL STAR ADVANTAGE

All Star Services serve greater Los Angeles, and our founder, Robert Messersmith, is an animal trapper who has 18 years of experience. He also has a background in construction, so he knows the best ways of removing pests and then repairing any resultant damage. All Star Animal Trapping makes a point of hiring similarly experienced professionals.

How to Control an Ant Infestation

To solve an ant infestation, the first step is to identify the ant species plaguing you. Different ant species have different behaviors that will determine the optimal way to keep them at bay. But in general, here are some of the things you need to do:

• Seal

Ants take advantage of the smallest of cracks and crevices to gain access into the home. That’s why the first step is to cut off all entry holes into your house. Check out walls, windows, doors, and the foundation to look for potential entry holes. Seal these holes with caulk. 

• Clean up

When worker ants leave the colony searching for food sources, they leave out an invisible trail containing pheromones that help lead other ants to locate food sources. You want to ensure to wipe off these trails when you notice them. Use soap and water to wash them off. 

• Eliminate food sources

Ants are primarily attracted to buildings for food. That’s why it's important to ensure there is no easily accessible food in your house. Some of the tips to bear in mind include:

1. Ensure that luring food sources like sugar and grease are kept in sealed containers. 
2. Ensure that leftovers are properly disposed of in sealed trash cans.
3. Wash your dishes immediately after you eat. 
4. Sweep away food crumbs from the floor and countertop immediately after eating.

• Eliminate water sources

Like all animals, ants need water to survive. While most ants get most water they need from food, having water around your house might also attract ants. That’s why you need to:

1. Fix leaky pipes and faucets.
2. Ensure your gutters and spouts are draining water from your house.
3. Install a dehumidifier to reduce moisture inside your home.

How to Get Rid of Ants

If you’re dealing with an ant infestation, you need a way to get rid of them now. All Star Services - Wildlife and Pest Control specializes in fast and efficient ant removal. And here are some of the most common methods for ant removal:

• Ant baits

Ants' baits contain insecticides mixed with materials that attract worker ants foraging for food. Once the worker ants pick up the bait, they take it back to their colony, killing other ants. 

Although this method is slow (it takes a few days), it is very effective because it takes the attack right to the source. 

• Ant spray

These are insecticides used to kill ants right on the spot. They can be used to kill ants that you come directly in contact with. But because the majority of ants do not leave the colony, using ant spray only provides temporary relief.

• Ant liquid

Ant liquid is preferred for treating large areas, especially outdoors where you see a large group of ants. The ants die once they touch the liquid. Ant liquid can also be poured into anthills to attack the entire colony.

• Ant granules

These are effective for dissuading ants. They should only be used outdoors. Place the granules around your yard - especially places you notice ant hills or ant activity. The ants will eat the granules and will all die within a day or two. 

Wrap Up

Are you dealing with an ant infestation? Contact us at All Star Services - Wildlife and Pest Control to get the best professionals to solve your ant infestation promptly and efficiently.