From roaches and mice to squirrels and spiders, there are many unwanted pests that can enter your home. While some pests are more harmful than others, they are all nuisances for most homeowners. Ants are another pest that you most likely do not want in your home, even though many homeowners do not consider preventing and controlling ants a priority. This guide will help you learn the truth about a few misconceptions regarding ants.
Ants Aren't a Big Deal
Yes, ants are small, but that does not mean they are not capable of causing big problems. While surprising to learn, ants ARE a big deal, since they can affect not only your home, but also your health.
For example, carpenter ants are a big problem for homeowners because they can do as much damage to a home as termites. These ants build nests by excavating the wood in and around your home. If you have a large infestation of carpenter ants, you could be at risk of serious and costly home damage.
Other ants that can be big problems include fire ants. If stung by a fire ant, you will experience swelling, inflammation, and pain. In addition, many people have allergic reactions, which can be serious and even life-threatening.
Cinnamon Is Best Preventative Measure
Another misconception many homeowners believe is that cinnamon is one of the best ways to prevent ants from entering the home. Many homeowners sprinkle cinnamon around doorways, windows, and across their pantry and cabinets in hopes of repelling ants and other pests.
Unfortunately, cinnamon is not the most effective option for preventing ants — eliminating what is attracting the ants is your best preventative measure.
If you have ants in your home, determine what is attracting the ants. You may have food residue or crumbs lingering in your kitchen cabinets and pantry. Or you may have an excess amount of moisture in the home, which is not only attracting ants, but other pests, too.
By eliminating these sources, you are reducing the risk of pest infestations, keeping your home healthy and safe.
Ants Are Only Problems in the Spring/Summer
Finally, you may think ants and other pests are only problems in the spring and summer. Therefore, you may not consider pest control a priority in the cooler seasons. In reality, ants can be problems for your home all through the year — no matter what type of weather you are experiencing.
Food and moisture are not the only things ants may be on the hunt for inside your home. During the cooler seasons, the interior of your home will also be warmer while you are running the heat. Ants and other pests will most likely invade your home in hopes of finding food AND heat. Contact a pest control company like Be There Pest Control if you're having trouble with pests.
