Ants

What are ants?

Ants are small scavenging insects of various sizes and varieties.  They have cinched waists and bent or “elbowed” antennae.  They have a wide range of dietary needs and can survive off of miniscule amounts of food.  Each colony is made up of millions of militant ants each with their own job and rank within the caste system.

Why do I have ants?

Ants are the most common pest problem reported.  There are thousands of species which are found all over the world.  They can enter your home through the tiniest crack or crevice seeking moisture and food.  Because they can enter your home in unexpected ways you might have a large infestation before you are aware of it.  Your geographic location and surroundings can have a bearing on the type of ants with which you are plagued.

Are they dangerous?

There are types that are dangerous to humans such as fire ants.  They make large mounds and cause painful stings.  Fire ants are becoming more common in the southern parts of our service area and A-1 technicians have been called upon to treat for them.  Carpenter ants are a wood destroying insects thus damaging to your home.  Unlike termites, carpenter ants do not consume wood instead they burrow through it to make their nests.  Carpenter ants can cause thousands of dollars of damage to your home if left untreated.  Ants can ruin food supplies when they access your cabinets.  A type of ant called a Pharaoh ant is known to carry disease which can be transmitted to humans.

How do I get rid of ants?

Your A-1 technician can first assess the type of ants you have and where you have them.  This is critical to ensure that the best pesticide is used for the situation.  An ant colony can grow quickly so it is vital that a professional be contacted as soon as you realize you have an infestation.  The number of ants you see in or around your home is but a fraction of the total size of the colony.  The technician might make suggestions about changes to make to prevent future infestations also.  Ongoing service might be necessary to ensure total colony elimination.

Can I do it myself?

There are many products available for ant treatment.  These will may kill those ants that you see; however, the colony is always growing and there are millions more to replace those you killed.  Products you purchase and use on certain ants can actually exacerbate your ant problem by causing the colony to split.  Where once ants were accessing your house from one area they might soon attack you from different areas making treatment more difficult.  When you have A-1 provide your service you are utilizing 48 years of knowledge of the best way to treat, the best product with which to treat, and safest means by which to treat to ensure your family’s safety.  A-1 technicians perform many hours of training and continuing education to know the best way to treat your home.  Each pesticide must be used in a specific mixture.  If mixed incorrectly by a do-it-yourselfer the result can be very dangerous.

Is the treatment safe?

The treatment is very safe; however, we do ask that your family and pets vacate the house for approximately three hours following the treatment.  It is important to allow the pesticide to dry before you come in direct contact with it.

How soon can you get here?

In many cases A-1 can respond the same or next day

What is the guarantee?

A-1 provides a 60 day guarantee for your ant service.  Within those 60 days if you continue to experience ants we will return and provide a retreatment at no cost to you.  A-1 guarantees your satisfaction.