Ants
PreventaPest ant pest control for homes and businesses
Ants usually enter buildings while searching for food or water. Once a worker finds a useful source, other workers may follow the same route, creating the familiar trail along skirting boards, worktops, window frames and other edges.
Why ants keep returning
Wiping away visible ants may remove the trail for a short time, but it does not necessarily deal with the nest. Cracks, service gaps, wall cavities, paving joints and sheltered areas outside can all provide nesting space. Sweet food, spillages, pet food and overflowing bins can keep the activity going.
Practical prevention
- Store food in sealed containers and clean worktops after preparing food.
- Empty bins regularly and clean residue from the inside and around the lid.
- Repair leaks and remove standing water where possible.
- Check around doors, windows, pipes and cables for gaps.
- Trim vegetation that touches the building and inspect likely entry routes.
Flying ants are the reproductive stage of a colony and commonly appear for a short period. A sudden flight can be a sign of a nest nearby, but it is not always evidence that ants are living inside the building.
When professional treatment helps
A survey can identify the ant species, trace the activity and establish whether the source is indoors or outside. Different species behave differently, so the same product is not right for every situation. Professional treatment may use targeted baiting, proofing and source reduction rather than a blanket spray across the building.
Do not mix products or apply household insecticides around food areas without reading the label. If ants are appearing in a kitchen, food business or care setting, keep the area clean and follow the site hygiene procedure while the source is investigated.
Need help with ants?
Tell us where the trail starts, when the ants appear and whether they are concentrated around food, moisture or a particular room.
Related PreventaPest service: Learn more about our pest control services across South Wales.
