Mesa Ant Control

At Defense Pest Control, we understand that ants are one of the most common household pests, constantly searching for food and water sources. These critters are not only attracted to sugary and starchy foods but also to moisture sources like standing water and damp items. While ants don't typically evoke fear as spiders or cockroaches might, their presence in your home is unwelcome.

Ant infestations can be frustrating and challenging to resolve independently. If you're struggling with an ant problem, call Defense Pest Control for a swift and effective solution. Our Mesa ant control experts bring over 65 years of collective experience and are equipped with the latest tools and techniques to handle your ant infestation professionally.

Call (480) 485-3053 or contact us online to schedule a free pest inspection for your home. 

Types of Ants in Arizona

As you may already know, ants play a vital role in the ecosystem. Through their moving of soil to build their nests and collecting food, ants affect the nutrients of the soil. They also act as decomposers, feeding on insects, organic waste, and dead animals.

There are over 300 different species of ants, and Arizona is home to dozens of them. Some of the most common ants affecting Mesa homeowners include:

• Carpenter ants – Although these ants do not eat wood, they do excavate wood in the process of making their nests in dry, moist, or rotting wood. If left unresolved, an infestation can cause cosmetic damage and even weaken the structural integrity of a house.
• Fire ants – This type of ant likes to build nests in sunny, open spaces, like your lawn. They have a painful bite, which can even be fatal, and are particularly dangerous for children and pets. If there is a colony on your property, it could consist of anywhere from 100,000 to 500,000 ants.
• Crazy ants – If you see any ants that rush around in erratic fashion when you disturb them, you’re probably dealing with crazy ants. They typically migrate to the inside of homes when the weather turns cold, and they’ll eat just about anything. Crazy ants also bite when they’re disturbed, though these bites are not as dangerous as fire ant bites.
• Pavement ants – Like fire ants, pavement ants live outdoors (on patios, sidewalks, and driveways) and are known for biting. This species is also dangerous for children and pets, especially those that are extremely sensitive to insect bites.
• Forelius ants – While harmless, these ants can be a nuisance. They are usually found in people’s pantries and other areas where food is stored.
• Odorous house ants – When crushed, this type of ant emits a smell of rotten coconuts. They like to build their nests both indoors and outdoors. You might find them near heaters, beneath floors, under carpets, or in wall crevices.

How to Get Rid of Ants in Your House

When you see one ant, there are most likely many more. An ant infestation in your home is a serious problem. Many homeowners want to look to natural ways to eliminate ants from their property. Here's a short list of some natural ways to get rid of ants from your house.

• Hand Soap - Soapy water is a very effective way to remove ant pheromones from surfaces in your home. Using it on ant trails you've discovered or any of your home's entry points (windows, doors, etc.) will help to prevent future ants from coming into your home.
• Pepper - Pepper is a great way to get ants out of your home. Ants strongly dislike the smell of pepper. Both black and red pepper are very effective as natural ant deterrent.
• White Vinegar - Vinegar is known to kill ants and repel ants from returning. If ants have made their way into your home, clean hard surfaces (countertops, floors, etc.) with a mixture of 50% water and 50% white vinegar.
• Peppermint - One natural repellant for both ants and mosquitoes is peppermint. Simply spray a mixture of water and peppermint essential oils around the entry points of your home. Be sure to keep the peppermint oil out of reach of pets. If exposed, they can become very ill.
• Boric Acid and Sugar: This method combines the attractiveness of sugar with the toxicity of boric acid. Mix boric acid with sugar to create a bait that attracts ants. The sugar lures them in, while the boric acid, which is a slow-acting poison, disrupts their digestive system and eventually kills them. Place the mixture in areas where ants are active but out of reach of pets and children.
• Diatomaceous Earth: This natural substance is made from fossilized remains of tiny, aquatic organisms. It works by dehydrating ants and other insects that come into contact with it. Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around entry points and along ant trails. It is safe for pets and humans but should be kept dry to remain effective.
• Borax and Sugar: Similar to boric acid, borax is another effective poison mixed with sugar. The sugar attracts ants, and the borax interferes with their digestive system. Mix borax and sugar in a 1:3 ratio and place the mixture in small containers where ants are active.

Contact Defense Pest Control online or at (480) 485-3053 for customized ant control in Mesa.