Ant infestations are a common nuisance for homeowners and businesses in Surrey. While ants may seem harmless initially, their presence can quickly grow into a larger problem if not properly managed. Knowing how to handle an ant problem effectively is key to keeping your space clean and pest-free, whether they’re invading your kitchen, backyard, or walls.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about ant control in Surrey, including types of ants, signs of infestation, what causes them, prevention tips, and the most effective treatment options available today.
1. Why Ants Are a Problem in Surrey
Surrey’s climate—marked by wet winters and mild summers—provides an ideal environment for ants to thrive. These pests constantly search for food, water, and shelter, making residential and commercial buildings perfect targets.
Key reasons ants invade your property:
- Easy access to food (crumbs, spills, pet food)
- Entry points like cracks in walls, doors, or windows
- High moisture areas like bathrooms and kitchens
- Nesting areas in wood, walls, or soil
2. Common Types of Ants in Surrey
Understanding which ant species you’re dealing with helps determine the proper control method. The most common types found in Surrey include:
a) Black Garden Ant (Lasius niger)
- Dark brown to black
- Typically found in gardens, but enter homes for food
- Harmless but annoying
b) Pharaoh Ants
- Yellow-brown color
- Thrive indoors in a warm area.s
- Can carry and spread bacteria
c) Carpenter Ants
- Large ants, black or reddish
- Nests in wood structures can cause structural damage.
- Require immediate attention
d) Ghost Ants
- Small and hard to detect due to pale legs and abdomen
- Attracted to sweets
- Often found in kitchens.
3. Signs of Ant Infestation
Catching an ant infestation early helps avoid a full-blown invasion. Watch for these common signs:
- Visible trails of ants: Often marching in a line to/from food sources.
- Ant nest: May look like small piles of dirt or sand indoors or in gardens.
- Rustling sounds in walls, Especially with carpenter ants.
- Discarded wings: From swarmers during reproduction periods.
- Increased ant activity near food or water, Particularly in kitchens and bathrooms.
4. How Ants Get Into Your Home
Ants can enter through even the most minor cracks and gaps. Common entry points include:
- Gaps in window frames and door seals
- Holes in the foundation or walls
- Utility lines and plumbing
- Vents and air ducts
- Under flooring or baseboards
They lay down scent trails for others to follow, meaning one could lead to hundreds more.
5. Dangers of an Ant Infestation
While not typically dangerous, ants can create several issues:
- Food contamination: Ants crawl over unsanitary areas before touching your food.
- Allergies and bites: Some people may experience allergic reactions or painful bites.
- Property damage: Carpenter ants can weaken wooden structures.
- Reputation damage: Especially for businesses like restaurants or cafes.
6. DIY Ant Prevention Tips
Preventing ants is often easier than getting rid of them. Here are practical tips:
a) Seal Entry Points
Use caulk to seal cracks, gaps, and crevices around windows, doors, and foundations.
b) Clean Regularly
Wipe down counters, vacuum floors, and frequently remove trash to eliminate food sources.
c) Store Food Properly
Use airtight containers for pantry items. Don’t leave pet food out overnight.
d) Eliminate Moisture
Fix leaky pipes and improve ventilation in damp areas to reduce nesting opportunities.
e) Trim Vegetation
Keep trees and bushes trimmed back from your home. Ants can use branches to enter.
f) Use Natural Repellents
Items like vinegar, lemon juice, cinnamon, or peppermint oil can repel ants from key areas.
7. Effective Ant Control Treatments
If prevention isn’t enough, here are treatment options that work:
a) Ant Baits
- Contains slow-acting poison that ants carry back to the colony.
- Effective for indoor use, especially against Pharaoh ants.
- It must be placed along trails and not disturbed.
b) Insecticide Sprays
- Provide quick knockdown for visible ants.
- Best used around entry points and outdoor perimeters.
- It may not eliminate the colony unless combined with baits.
c) Ant Dusts
- Ideal for wall voids, electrical outlets, or attics.
- Long-lasting and effective against carpenter ants.
d) Professional Pest Control
- Necessary for large infestations or wood-nesting ants.
- Experts can identify the species and apply targeted treatments.
8. Why DIY Isn’t Always Enough
While DIY methods can help reduce minor infestations, they often fall short of serious problems. Here’s why:
- Colonies are hard to reach: Ant nests are often deep within walls or underground.
- Wrong treatment = more ants: Killing visible ants without addressing the nest may cause colony splitting.
- Health and safety risks: Incorrect pesticide use can harm children and pets.
- Reinfestation risk: Without long-term solutions, ants often return.
9. When to Call a Professional
You should consider calling an ant control expert if:
- The infestation persists after multiple DIY attempts
- You see ants in multiple areas of your home.
- You find signs of carpenter ants (wood shavings, hollow wood)
- The ants return seasonally despite preventive measures.
- You’re unsure what type of ants you’re dealing with
Professionals use industry-grade equipment and insecticides to deliver safe, lasting results. They also help identify contributing factors around your property.
10. How to Choose a Pest Control Company in Surrey
Choosing an exemplary pest control service is crucial for effective results. Look for:
- Licensed and certified technicians
- Experience with ant infestations
- Eco-friendly or child-safe treatment options
- Guarantees or warranties
- Transparent pricing and detailed inspection reports
Ask for a quote and compare services before committing. Make sure they offer follow-ups and explain their treatment plan.
11. Cost of Ant Control in Surrey
Prices for ant control in Surrey vary based on several factors:
| Factor | Average Cost (CAD) |
| Basic treatment (minor ants) | $150 – $250 |
| Carpenter ant removal | $250 – $500+ |
| Follow-up visits | $50 – $100 per visit |
| Annual pest control plans | $300 – $600/year |
It’s a small price compared to the potential damage and stress caused by a persistent infestation.
12. Seasonal Ant Problems in Surrey
- Spring and Summer: Peak ant activity due to warmer weather and breeding cycles.
- Fall: Ants seek shelter indoors from the cold.
- Winter: Indoor infestations may continue, especially with Pharaoh ants or in heated buildings.
Stay proactive year-round by sealing entry points and maintaining cleanliness.
Conclusion:
Ant infestations can escalate quickly if not handled properly. From nuisance species like black garden ants to structural threats like carpenter ants, timely action is crucial. Understanding their behaviour, preventing entry, and using the proper treatment approach can keep your home safe.
However, trusting the professional for complex or recurring issues is best.
Pest Control Surrey offers expert solutions tailored to your unique situation. With a skilled team and proven treatments, we ensure your ant problem is handled safely, thoroughly, and efficiently.
