Stop Ants from Taking Over Your Home or Business
Ants may be small, but they can become a big problem if left unchecked. Once they invade a home or business, they quickly build colonies, contaminate food, and in some cases, cause structural damage. Some ants can also bite or sting, creating an unpleasant experience for families, employees, or customers.
For residents and business owners in Ocean, Monmouth, and Middlesex Counties, preventing an ant infestation starts with understanding why ants invade and how to get rid of them effectively. If you have an ant problem, professional pest control services can help eliminate them at the source.
Why Are Ants a Problem in New Jersey?
New Jersey’s climate provides an ideal environment for ants to thrive. The warm, humid summers and mild winters mean that many species remain active throughout much of the year. As they search for food, water, and shelter, ants frequently make their way indoors. Some species, such as carpenter ants, can cause structural damage by tunneling through wood, while others, like odorous house ants, can contaminate food sources and create unsanitary conditions.
Ant infestations are one of the most common pest problems for homeowners and businesses. According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), ants are considered one of the most challenging pests to control due to their colony structures and resilience. You can learn more about ant behavior and control strategies from trusted sources like the NPMA at pestworld.org and university entomology departments such as Rutgers University’s Cooperative Extension like this article about carpenter ants and their control at njaes.rutgers.edu.
Common Ant Species in New Jersey
Different types of ants require different extermination strategies. The following ant species are frequently found in New Jersey homes and businesses:
- Carpenter Ants – Large ants that tunnel through wood, potentially weakening structural integrity. They are often found in damp wood, window frames, basements, and attics.
- Odorous House Ants – Small, dark brown or black ants that release a rotten coconut-like smell when crushed. They are commonly found in kitchens and pantries.
- Pavement Ants – Small black or brown ants that create nests in driveways, sidewalks, and building foundations.
- Acrobat Ants – Ants that raise their abdomens over their heads when disturbed. They are commonly found in decayed wood and insulation.
- Thief Ants – Tiny ants that steal food from other colonies and can spread bacteria. They often nest in walls, floors, and under appliances.
How Professional Pest Control Helps
Professional ant extermination involves more than just spraying visible ants. Many ants leave behind pheromone trails, leading others to food and water sources, which makes them difficult to eliminate without professional help. Callahan’s Termite & Pest Control follows an Integrated Pest Management (IPM) approach that combines inspection, targeted treatment, and prevention to control ants effectively.
Steps in the Ant Extermination Process:
- Inspection – Identifying the type of ant and locating nests inside and outside the property.
- Treatment – Applying baiting, liquid treatments, or dust applications based on the species.
- Nest Elimination – Treating and removing colonies in and around the home or business.
- Barrier Protection – Treating the perimeter of the structure to prevent future infestations.
- Prevention Guidance – Providing recommendations to reduce moisture, seal entry points, and eliminate food sources.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides helpful information about Integrated Pest Management and safe pest control practices at https://www.epa.gov/ipm
DIY Ant Control vs. Professional Extermination
While DIY treatments such as store-bought ant sprays and bait stations may offer temporary relief, they rarely address the root of the problem. Many ants split into multiple colonies when threatened, making infestations worse. Additionally, using the wrong type of pesticide or bait can make ants more resistant over time.
Professional exterminators have the expertise to identify ant species, apply treatments effectively, and create long-term prevention strategies. Resources from university extension programs, such as the Penn State Extension at extension.psu.edu, offer valuable information on different ant species and best practices for managing infestations.
How to Prevent Ants in Your Home or Business
The best way to deal with ants is to prevent them from entering in the first place. Here are some effective prevention strategies:
- Seal Entry Points – Inspect for cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and foundation walls, sealing them to block ant access.
- Keep Food Sealed – Store food in airtight containers, wipe down kitchen surfaces, and take out the trash regularly.
- Eliminate Moisture – Fix leaks under sinks, use dehumidifiers in damp areas, and ensure proper drainage around the property.
- Trim Vegetation – Keep tree branches and shrubs from touching buildings to reduce ant entry points.
- Reduce Clutter – Remove firewood, leaves, and other debris that ants can use for shelter.
Ant Control for Homes and Businesses in New Jersey
Ant infestations are not just a problem for homeowners. Businesses, including restaurants, food processing facilities, warehouses, and offices, are also at risk. Commercial spaces require specialized treatment plans to comply with health and safety regulations.
Callahan’s Termite & Pest Control offers both residential and commercial ant control services, including:
- Routine pest management for homes and businesses
- Targeted extermination for specific ant infestations
- Year-round protection plans to prevent recurring problems
Schedule an Ant Inspection
Ants are one of the most persistent and difficult pests to control, but with the right approach, they can be managed effectively. If you suspect an ant infestation in your home or business, schedule an inspection with Callahan’s Termite & Pest Control.