Are you dealing with an ant infestation in your crawl space? Ants can enter through tiny gaps and cracks; once inside, it can be hard to get rid of them. Fortunately, there are several steps you can take to get rid of ants in the crawl space and prevent them from coming back.
Many homeowners have encountered this problem when they purchase a home or while living in one. Ants can cause damage to wood and other fibrous materials found in many homes, making it important to tackle the issue quickly and effectively before any lasting harm is caused.
In this blog post, we’ll provide some guidance on how to get rid of ants in crawl space so that you can ensure your home remains ant-free year round!
What Will You Need?
Before you begin, make sure you have the following items on hand:
- Disposable gloves
- Vacuum cleaner
- Ant bait traps
- Insecticide spray (preferably one with a long residual effect)
- Dustpan and brush
- Old rags or towels
Once you have the supplies you need, it’s time to get started.
10 Easy Steps on How to Get Rid of Ants in Crawl Space
Step 1: Vacuuming the Crawl Space
The first step is to vacuum out the entire area. Put on your disposable gloves and use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to thoroughly clean all surfaces, getting into any crevices or cracks. This will help to remove any lingering food particles ant may have been eating, decreasing their chances of returning.
Step 2: Place Ant Bait Traps
After vacuuming the area, place ant bait traps strategically throughout the crawl space. These traps contain a special substance that lures ants and other insects inside, where they die after consuming it. The great thing about these traps is that you can use them without spraying insecticide all over your home.
Step 3: Spray Insecticides
Once you’ve placed the ant bait traps, you should also spray insecticide around the perimeter of the crawl space and within it as well. Make sure to read and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before you begin. Don’t forget to wear protective clothing, like long-sleeved shirts and pants, when you do this.
Step 4: Fill Small Gaps and Cracks
Look for any small gaps or cracks in your crawl space, as these are prime areas where ants can enter your home. Use silicone caulk or expandable foam insulation to fill them up, ensuring that no more ants can get through. Don’t forget to check the baseboards, window frames, and doorways for any potential openings.
Step 5: Clean Up the Remaining Ants
Once you’ve completed all of the above steps, use a dustpan and brush to sweep out any remaining ants from the crawl space. You may also want to use an old rag or towel to wipe away ant trails, helping to prevent future infestations from occurring. If you find any dead ants, make sure to dispose of them quickly and properly.
Step 6: Reducing Moisture
Ants are attracted to moist environments, so reducing the humidity in your crawl space can help to deter them from entering. Make sure that all pipes and drains are functioning properly, and use a dehumidifier if necessary. It’s also a good idea to check for any leaking water or moisture in the area, as this could be an appealing spot for ants.
Step 7: Store Food Properly
Making sure food is stored securely is another important step when it comes to get rid of ants in crawl space. Keep all food items sealed and tightly covered, as any exposed food will attract ants and other insects. Because ants are especially drawn to sweet smells, make sure that sugary items like candy and syrup are kept out of reach.
Step 8: Declutter the Area
Decluttering your crawl space can also be helpful in keeping ants away. Remove any unnecessary items, such as boxes or old furniture pieces, as these can provide hiding spots for ants and other unwanted pests. You can also check for and seal off any crevices or holes that may be allowing ants access to your home.
Step 9: Seal Entry Points
Look for any potential entry points in your walls or floors, and seal them up with silicone caulk. This will help to prevent ants from entering your home through these ways. Keep an eye out for cracks, holes, and other openings that may be allowing ants access inside.
Step 10: Monitor the Situation
After following all of the above steps, you should start to see a decrease in ant activity within a few weeks. Continue monitoring the situation and call an exterminator if necessary. With regular maintenance and vigilance, you can help ensure that your crawl space remains pest-free year round!
By following these steps, keep them away for good. You can deter ants from entering your home by setting up bait traps, spraying insecticide, filling potential entry points, and keeping the area clean and dry. Remember to monitor the situation regularly, and don’t hesitate to call a professional exterminator if necessary.
5 Additional Tips and Tricks
- If you are using insecticide, make sure to wear protective gear like long sleeves and pants.
- Invest in a dehumidifier to help reduce moisture levels in the crawl space.
- Seal up any potential entry points with silicone caulk.
- Apply a perimeter spray for added protection against ants.
- Keep the area clean and clutter-free to make it less attractive to ants.
Following these steps and tips can help you get rid of ants in the crawl space quickly, safely, and effectively! It’s important to remember that prevention is always better than cure when dealing with pests, so take the necessary precautions outlined above to keep your home ant-free. With a little bit of effort, you can keep your crawl space clear of pesky ants for good!
5 Things You Should Avoid
1. Don’t try to get rid of the ants yourself
Trying to eliminate an ant problem without professional help can be daunting. Not only do you have to identify the type of ant infestation and how they are getting in, but there is also the challenge of figuring out how to get rid of them safely and effectively.
2. Don’t apply insecticides or other pesticides randomly
Doing so may make your home more hospitable for the pests and pose a risk for humans and pets in the area, such as respiratory irritation and skin reactions from certain chemicals found in many commercial pest control products.
3. Don’t use bleach or detergents on surfaces affected by ants
Doing so can be hazardous to both humans and pets, as these products can cause eye, skin, or respiratory irritation if inhaled. It’s best to leave these types of treatments up to professionals.
4. Don’t put food outside around the crawl space areas
Ants are drawn to food sources and quickly find them if left out in the open. Store all food items in tightly sealed containers away from where ants can access them.
5. Don’t leave standing water near your home’s foundation or outside walls
Standing water attracts various insects, including ants, and provides them with a breeding ground for their colonies. Make sure that any leaks or flooded areas around your home are dealt with promptly.
By following these tips, you can help to reduce the chances of an ant infestation in your crawl space and protect your family from unnecessary exposure to dangerous chemicals. If an ant problem arises, be sure to contact a professional exterminator to help safely and effectively eliminate the pest issue.
What Naturally Makes Ants Go Away?
There are various natural and organic methods for deterring ants from entering your home. Things like essential oils, borax, diatomaceous earth, citrus peels, cucumber slices, and vinegar can all be used to naturally repel ants from entering the house or crawl space.
Additionally, there are some plants that have been known to repel ants as well, such as mint and lavender. Perhaps one of the most effective solutions is to attract beneficial insects that feed on other pests around the home– like parasitic wasps — which will help keep ant populations in check.
Ultimately, it’s important to remember that prevention is always better than cure when it comes to getting rid of ants. By following the tips outlined above and taking the necessary preventative measures, you can help ensure a pest-free home and crawl space!
Conclusion
To get rid of ants in the crawl space, you will need to take some specific steps. These include sealing up any cracks or openings that may be used to enter your home, removing any food sources that they may have found, and using baits and traps to kill them.
You may also want to consult with a professional exterminator to ensure the problem is completely dealt with. By following these steps, you should be able to get rid of ants in your crawl space for good.
Hopefully, the article on how to get rid of ants in crawl space was helpful. Remember, taking preventative measures is always the best way to ensure that your home stays pest-free. Good luck!