Why Ants Keep Coming Back
Over-the-counter sprays only kill the ants you see. The colony—including the queen—remains intact underground or inside your walls, continuing to produce thousands of new ants. Professional treatment targets the entire colony, eliminating the source.
Common Ants in Cleveland
Carpenter Ants - Large black ants that nest in wood. They don’t eat wood like termites, but excavate galleries that can cause structural damage. Often a sign of moisture problems.
Pavement Ants - Small brown ants that nest under sidewalks, driveways, and foundations. They invade kitchens and bathrooms seeking food and water.
Odorous House Ants - Tiny brown ants that emit a rotten coconut smell when crushed. Form large colonies with multiple queens, making them difficult to eliminate.
Little Black Ants - Very small black ants that form trails to food sources. Common in kitchens and pantries.
Signs of Ant Problems
- Ant trails along baseboards, counters, or walls
- Sawdust piles near wood (carpenter ants)
- Winged ants indoors (swarmers indicating mature colony)
- Small dirt mounds near foundation
Our Ant Control Process
1. Identification
Different ant species require different treatments. Our technicians identify the species and locate the colony to develop an effective treatment plan.
2. Targeted Treatment
We use a combination of:
- Baits - Worker ants carry bait back to the colony, eliminating the queen and entire nest
- Perimeter treatment - Creates a barrier preventing entry
- Crack and crevice treatment - Targets ants hiding in walls and voids
- Nest treatment - Direct treatment when colonies are accessible
3. Prevention
We identify and address conditions that attract ants:
- Moisture issues (especially for carpenter ants)
- Food storage recommendations
- Entry point sealing
- Landscaping modifications
Carpenter Ant Warning
Carpenter ants often indicate moisture damage in your home. While treating the ants, we’ll alert you to any conditions that need attention to prevent future infestations and structural issues.
Why DIY Fails
Store-bought sprays create a temporary barrier that ants simply walk around. Baits from hardware stores often aren’t attractive to the specific ant species in your home. Our professional-grade products and application methods ensure complete colony elimination.
Year-Round Protection Available - Ask about our ongoing ant protection plans with regular treatments.