Why Are There So Many Ants in My House? Understanding North Carolina’s Ant Problem
Have You Ever Thought "How Do I Get Rid of Ants"? Pest & Termite Consultants, Your Local Insect Control Experts, Are Here to Help
If you’ve ever walked into your kitchen and found a trail of ants marching across the counter, you’re not alone. Ant infestations are one of the most common pest issues in Durham, NC, and they can be frustrating to deal with. While a few stray ants might not seem like a big deal, an ant problem can quickly get out of hand.
So, why are there so many ants in your house? In this post, we’ll explore:
- The most common ant species in North Carolina
- Why ants invade homes and where they’re typically found
- How to prevent an ant infestation with DIY methods
- When it’s time to call for professional pest ant control
If you’re tired of dealing with persistent ant problems, keep reading to learn what you can do to protect your home.
Common Ant Species in North Carolina & Their Risks
Durham and the surrounding areas in North Carolina are home to several types of ants, each bringing unique challenges for homeowners.
1. Fire Ants 🔥🐜
- Why They’re a Problem: Fire ants are aggressive and deliver painful stings that can be dangerous, especially for those allergic to their venom.
- Where They Nest: These ants prefer outdoor areas, especially lawns, gardens, and under sidewalks or driveways. However, during extreme weather, they can enter homes seeking shelter.
2. Carpenter Ants 🏠🐜
- Why They’re a Problem: Unlike termites, carpenter ants don’t eat wood, but they tunnel through it, causing structural damage over time.
- Where They Nest: Typically found inside walls, wooden furniture, attics, and decks. If you spot large black ants, it could be a carpenter ant infestation.
3. Odorous House Ants 🍭🐜
- Why They’re a Problem: These ants contaminate food and release a rotten coconut-like odor when crushed.
- Where They Nest: Kitchens, bathrooms, and under sinks or inside wall voids.
4. Pavement Ants 🏡🐜
- Why They’re a Problem: These small, brown ants often invade homes in large numbers, seeking food and moisture.
- Where They Nest: Sidewalk cracks, patios, driveways, and inside walls when they enter homes.
5. Argentine Ants 🌱🐜
- Why They’re a Problem: Argentine ants are one of the most invasive species and can quickly take over a home due to their massive colony size.
- Where They Nest: Under mulch, in moist areas, and inside kitchens and bathrooms.
Why Are Ants in Your House?
Ants enter homes for three main reasons: food, water, and shelter.
1. Food Sources That Attract Ants
Ants are highly attracted to sugary and greasy foods. Even small crumbs or spills can draw them inside. If you frequently see ants in your kitchen or pantry, they’ve likely found a consistent food source.
Common food sources that attract ants:
- Unsealed food containers (cereal, pet food, sugar, etc.)
- Sticky spills (syrup, juice, honey)
- Dirty dishes left in the sink
- Garbage bins without tight lids
2. Water & Moisture Bring Ants Indoors
Ants need water to survive, and damp environments make perfect nesting spots.
Moisture-prone areas where ants thrive:
- Under bathroom sinks
- Around leaky pipes
- Inside basements or crawl spaces
- Near air conditioning units
3. Weather Changes Drive Ants Inside
Extreme weather—like heavy rain, drought, or cold snaps—can force ants to move indoors seeking shelter. North Carolina’s humid summers and mild winters often lead to year-round ant problems.
How to Get Rid of Ants in Your Home: DIY Prevention Tips
If you’re dealing with occasional ants, these DIY methods can help prevent a full-blown infestation:
1. Keep Your Kitchen Clean
- Wipe down counters and tables after meals.
- Sweep and mop regularly to eliminate crumbs.
- Store food in airtight containers.
2. Seal Entry Points
Ants enter through tiny cracks and gaps in windows, doors, and foundation walls. Use:
- Caulk to seal small gaps.
- Weather stripping on doors and windows.
- Steel wool to block larger openings.
3. Remove Standing Water
Fix leaky pipes, ensure proper drainage, and don’t leave pet water bowls out overnight.
4. Use Natural Ant Deterrents
- Vinegar spray: Wipe down surfaces with a vinegar-water mixture.
- Cinnamon or peppermint oil: These strong scents repel ants.
- Diatomaceous earth: A natural powder that kills ants by drying them out.
5. Set Ant Baits for Small Infestations
Ant bait stations work by attracting worker ants, who carry the poison back to the colony. This method is more effective than killing visible ants, which only eliminates a small portion of the problem.
When to Call a Professional Ant Exterminator for Ant Control in Durham, NC
If ants keep coming back despite your efforts, you likely have a larger infestation that requires professional treatment.
Signs You Need Professional Pest Ant Control:
- You see ants year-round, even in winter.
- DIY treatments aren’t working.
- Ants are nesting inside your home (wall voids, furniture, attic).
- You find carpenter ants damaging wood.
Why Professional Ant Extermination Works
At Pest and Termite Consultants, our local insect control experts use specialized treatments to:
- Identify the species and locate the nest.
- Apply targeted baits and non-repellent treatments that eliminate colonies at the source.
- Seal entry points and recommend long-term prevention.
Unlike over-the-counter sprays, our professional pest ant control treatments offer lasting protection, so you don’t have to deal with recurring infestations.
Get Expert Ant Control in Durham, NC Today!
If you’re tired of ants taking over your home, it’s time to call the experts. Whether you’re dealing with fire ants in the yard, carpenter ants damaging wood, or odorous house ants in the kitchen, we’ve got the solution.
📞 Call Pest and Termite Consultants at (919) 246-8831 to schedule your ant inspection and treatment today!
Stop ants before they take over—because your home belongs to you, not them!
