Ants are among the most persistent household pests, and in regions like Northwest Arkansas, their activity can spike in spring, summer, and even fall. Whether it’s a trail of sugar ants in your kitchen or carpenter ants damaging wood structures, getting rid of them effectively takes more than just a can of spray.
So, what is the best method of ant control? It’s a combination of accurate identification, targeted baiting, and ongoing prevention.
Step 1: Identify the Ant Species
Before choosing a treatment, you need to know what type of ant you’re dealing with. In Northwest Arkansas, the most common species include:
- Odorous house ants – tiny black ants that smell like rotten coconut when crushed
- Pavement ants – small ants often nesting in cracks in driveways and sidewalks
- Carpenter ants – large black ants that chew through wood and can cause structural damage
- Fire ants – aggressive ants with painful stings, often nesting in yards and open areas
Each species nests and forages differently, so identification is key to successful control.
Step 2: Use Targeted Baiting
Baiting is the most effective method for most ant infestations. Ant baits use slow-acting ingredients that worker ants carry back to the colony, where they feed it to the queen and larvae. This approach eliminates the entire colony from the inside out.
The key to baiting success is proper placement and using a bait that’s attractive to the specific species. At Rid-a-Pest, we use professional-grade, species-specific bait systems that are far more effective than store-bought versions.
Step 3: Apply Perimeter Treatments
To prevent ants from entering your home, perimeter treatments are essential. This involves applying a residual insecticide barrier around the exterior of your home, especially near foundations, doorways, and window frames. These treatments stop ants before they get inside and are particularly effective in Northwest Arkansas where humidity and rainfall can drive ants indoors.
Step 4: Eliminate Nesting Sites
Controlling ants isn’t just about killing what you see, it’s about eliminating the source. That means locating and treating nests directly when possible, particularly for carpenter ants that may be nesting inside walls or damp wood. Professional ant control specialists use a combination of bait, dust, and moisture control to address these difficult infestations.
Step 5: Prevent Reinfestation
Even after ants are gone, they often return, unless you take steps to stop them. The best long-term ant control includes:
- Sealing cracks and entry points
- Keeping food sealed and counters clean
- Fixing leaks and reducing moisture around your home
- Scheduling regular professional treatments
At Rid-a-Pest, we offer quarterly service plans to provide ongoing protection and ensure ants stay out for good.
Final Answer: What’s the Best Method?
The best method of ant control is a multi-step, professional approach:
- Accurate species identification
- Strategic bait placement
- Exterior perimeter treatment
- Nest elimination
- Ongoing prevention
DIY solutions might give you temporary relief, but professional ant control ensures lasting results. If you’re struggling with ants in Fayetteville, Springdale, Bentonville, Rogers, or anywhere in Northwest Arkansas, call Rid-a-Pest for expert help and a free estimate. We’ll stop the ants at the source, safely and effectively.
