Ant Hill
We live on an ant hill, well that's Nova Scotia. No matter where you live in the province you will find ants, whether under stones or live in your walls, there is no escape. Ants are not known to pose any health risks but damage to structures, that's a different story. The largest species of ant in Nova Scotia, the Carpenter Ant, can cause some serious damage. We will give a few tips on how to help with ants around your home.
Exterior Perimeter
This is where you need to start your first line of defense. There are a number of things that can be done to help, from keeping vegetation cut low around the foundation, sealing any gaps or openings around windows and doors, and keeping the perimeter clear of debris that ants can nest under can be a good start. Ants love downspout pads and patio stones that they can set up home base under. Ensure these items are installed properly and not placed directly on soil but have a proper substrate like crusher dust.
Keeping Food Away
Ants are hungry little critters and have workers come in looking for food to feed the crew back in the nest. Sugar is their favorite meal so keeping that up and away in very important. Ensure any containers that have sugar are clean and stored properly. Keeping garbage receptacles clean and removing excess garbage will remove another food source. Clean up those drips and spills using a cleaner such as Lysol that can help remove those sweet scents.
Useful Tools
Going to any hardware or garden center you will find a variety of products that can help around the property. There are sprays you can purchase to treat around the outside at the foundation. Be careful using these items making sure to wear proper clothing and ppe to keep yourself safe. You want to also keep children and pets away until the product gets a chance to dry. Various baits can also be used which you can purchase as well and place those near ant trails to ensure they find it on their way by.
Consider Professional Help
If you're struggling to control an ant infestation or want to ensure your home is protected, consider consulting a professional pest control company. They have the expertise and resources to identify and address any issues in your home effectively.
Protecting your Nova Scotia home from ants is crucial for maintaining a healthy, safe living environment. By following these preventative measures, you'll significantly reduce the likelihood of an ant infestation and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with an ant-free home. Stay vigilant, keep your home clean and well-maintained, and don't hesitate to seek professional help if necessary.
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