When To Call An Exterminator For Ants

Ants are fascinating and hard-working insects that are essential to our ecosystem. However, if they move into your home as uninvited roommates, you need to know when to call an exterminator for ants. 

While it’s possible to go the DIY route for minor ant invasions, if you have a recurring infestation, it;s best left to the pros. Learn when to call an exterminator for ants and factors to consider to help you determine next steps.

Best Time to Call an Exterminator for Ants

If you have tried multiple DIY methods (like using borax or ant repellent spray) and still have recurring infestations, you need to call a professional ant exterminator near you. An ongoing and recurring ant infestation should always be treated by a professional, as it’s a clear sign that DIY removal methods aren’t working. Stay vigilant for signs of a stubborn ant infestation, such as sawdust along wooden surfaces and other property damage.

A professional exterminator will be able to treat the problem successfully and, by implementing a regular treatment service plan, help prevent future infestations. When you call an exterminator to help with your ant problem, be sure to describe the previous elimination methods used and the timeline of the infestation.

Factors That Affect Hiring An Exterminator for Ants

Here are a few factors to help you decide if it’s time to call in the pros.

Amount of Ants

What is another way to know when to call an exterminator for ants? Well, if you notice a significant number of ants or if they keep returning to a particular spot, then you should hire a professional exterminator. 

Ants can live in various places in your home, such as pantries, cabinets, cracks in the floor or walls, and beneath appliances. They like to be close to food and water sources, which is why they are commonly found in kitchens and bathrooms. So, a few stragglers here and there might not be cause for concern, but large quantities of ants can indicate there’s a nest nearby.

Type of Ants

Did you know that experts say there are over 12,000 different types of known ant species? However, there are a couple types of ants to be cautious of and should call in a professional to exterminate rather than attempting to treat the problem yourself. The top two contenders to watch out for are fire ants and carpenter ants. 

While the word carpenter brings the thought of home repairs, these ants do the opposite to your house. They don’t eat wood like termites, but they chew and burrow through it to create their nests. This habit can cause the wood to be more susceptible to moisture and damage. 

Fire ants are aggressive, and their sting packs a nasty punch. Not only that, they can also cause damage to your home, including to electrical equipment such as circuit breakers and isolators. So, while any type of persistent ant infestation needs addressing, you should hire a pro if you spot these types of ants in your home.

Signs of Property Damage

If you aren’t sure what type of ants you have but notice sawdust piles near wooded areas, such as baseboards, window sills, or door frames, this can be a sign of carpenter ants. Since they burrow through wood, they will leave piles of sawdust behind. If you tap on the wood and it sounds hollow, you need to call in an exterminator before more damage is done.

Cost to Hire an Exterminator

The cost of hiring an ant exterminator to solve your ant problem depends on many factors, such as the type of ants, size of the infestation, location of the infestation, and whether you need more than one treatment. However, the average range can be as low as $80 for a simple service and up to $500 for a more difficult extermination. Since fire ants and carpenter ants are more difficult to remove, they tend to cost more.

If you have a large infestation, it may cost more because it may require several treatments to eradicate the ants. In some cases, exterminators will offer a bundle of treatments, which can lower the overall price. However, you can expect to pay $1,400 or more for a scheduled treatment plan if you have a severe infestation.

DIY vs. Hiring a Pro

You may try to exterminate the ants yourself, which is an option if you haven’t already used DIY treatments. The cost will depend on the type of treatment you choose. Ant bait traps can cost as low as $5, and ant repellent sprays can cost between $5 to $40. However, if the problem persists, you will need to hire a professional ant exterminator. 

The biggest benefit of hiring a professional exterminator is their treatments are more effective, and you can skip battling with the ants if they decide to return or if you have a severe infestation. The average cost for a one-time treatment will run about $150, but remember, the price can vary depending on the severity of the infestation, location, and type of ants.