Preventing Patio Ants from Invading Homes
Patio ants are a type of ant that are often found in the garden or on the patio of homes. They are a source of annoyance for many people, and can often be difficult to get rid of. Taking some preventative measures to keep patio ants from invading homes can help avoid the frustration associated with removing them and provide peace of mind.
Take Away Their Food Supply
Patio ants are attracted to food sources and will be drawn in if they think they can find a meal. While they may often be found on the patio, they are likely coming from nearby sources and can make their way into homes if they think they might find food. To prevent this, do not keep food or garbage near entrances to the home or the patio and ensure that the kitchen floors and counters are kept clean and free of crumbs.
Keep Standing Water Away
Standing water can be a prime source of invasion for patio ants, as it is a good source of refreshment and can help them thrive. To prevent these ants from setting up camp in the patio, make sure all sources of water (e.g. puddles, bird baths etc.) are either far away from the patio or dried up.
Seal Cracks and Crevices
Patio ants can often find their way into the home through cracks and crevices in walls, door frames and windows. Those who have plants in the house should also inspect any potted plants regularly, as patio ants also like to hide in the soil. Sealing any cracks or crevices in walls and windows, as well as replacing any rotten frames or door frames can help prevent patio ants from entering the home.
Reduce Clutter
Having clutter around the home can be an invitation to patio ants, as it gives them somewhere to hide. Ensure that all ares of the patio are kept neat and tidy and clutter is removed or tidied away regularly. This will reduce the chances of them setting up camp in the patio.
Gardening Care
Patio ants can also be attracted to areas of the garden where soil is not kept tidy and free of weeds. It is important to take good care of outside areas, such as keeping the lawn mowed and removing any dead plants or leaves. This will prevent them from seeking shelter or food in these areas.
Ant Repellents
For those who already have a problem with patio ants, there are various kinds of ant repellents available which can be used to discourage the ants from invading the home. These often come in the form of granules or sprays that can be applied directly to the patio or garden and will help keep the ants at bay.
Using Natural Solutions to Get Rid of Patio Ants
Getting rid of patio ants without using harsh chemicals is both possible and often more effective. Natural solutions such as vinegar, essential oils and borax can be used to create a deterrent which will help to keep ants away without harming the environment or human health.
Vinegar
Vinegar is a strong and natural ant repellent that can be used to create a barrier, helping to keep ants away from the patio and home. Creating a solution of equal parts vinegar and water and then spraying it around entrances and exits to the home can help to keep ants at bay.
Essential Oils
Essential oils, such as peppermint and tea tree oil, are a natural and effective way to repel ants. Creating a mixture of equal parts of a few drops of essential oil and water and then spraying it around the patio and entrances to the home can be an effective way of creating a barrier and keeping them away.
Borax
Borax is a natural ant repellent and can be used as both a repellent and as poison. Sprinkling borax around the patio or entrances to the home is a good way to keep ants away, but it should be noted that borax is toxic to humans and should be kept away from children and pets.
Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a powder made from fossilized algae which is used as an effective insecticide. It can be used to both repel and kill ants, making it highly effective at getting rid of patio ants. It can be sprinkled around the patio or entrances to the home and can help to get rid of problem ants quickly.
Removing Patio Ants Once They Have Entered The Home
For those who have a problem of patio ants entering their home, it is important to take action quickly as they can multiply quickly and cause major inconveniences. Following these steps can help quickly and effectively get rid of patio ants that have found their way into the home.
Locate the Nest
The first step is to locate the nest so that it can be destroyed. Pay close attention to areas of the home that the ants seem to be congregating and the nest will usually be found in these areas.
Destroy the Nest
Once the nest has been located, it is important to take measures to destroy it. This can be done by following the steps outlined above for natural solutions. Spraying a vinegar solution around the nest and sprinkling diatomaceous earth around it will quickly help to get rid of the ants.
Remove Food Sources
It is also important to ensure that any food sources the ants may have found in the home are removed. Cleaning up kitchen surfaces, getting rid of garbage and vacuuming the floors can help to prevent them from returning.
Remove Access Points
Finally, make sure that access points to the home are blocked off. Sealing any cracks and crevices in walls, windows and door frames can help to prevent them from entering the home again.
Treating Patio Surfaces
Treating the patio and outdoor surfaces with a suitable ant repellent treatment can be effective in helping to keep patio ants away from the home. The following treatments can help to reduce the amount of patio ants in and around the home.
Chemical Treatments
Using chemical treatments such as pesticides and insecticides can be effective in getting rid of patio ants. Make sure to follow the instructions on the label and use the correct amount and concentration to avoid harming plants and animals.
Natural Solutions
Using natural solutions such as vinegar, essential oils and borax can help to keep patio ants away from the home. Spraying these solutions around entrances and exits of the home or around the patio can help to create a barrier and keep the ants at bay.
Preventative Measures
Taking preventative measures such as sealing up cracks and crevices, keeping areas tidy and removing food sources can help to prevent patio ants from entering the home. Doing these tasks regularly can help to keep unwelcome guests at bay.
Baits
Using baits or traps can also be effective in reducing or eliminating the amount of patio ants in the home. These can be placed in areas where the ants are found, as they will be drawn to the bait and can be removed from the home.
Important Considerations When Dealing with Patio Ants
When dealing with patio ants, it is important to consider the environment and other living creatures. These pests can cause harm if not dealt with correctly and it is important to keep in mind the safety and welfare of other animals and plants during treatment.
Non-Lethal Solutions
Avoid using poisons or other chemicals that may be lethal to ants, as it can have negative effects on other animals and plants in the area. Natural solutions such as diatomaceous earth and essential oils are non-toxic and often just as effective.
Environmental Impact
Chemical treatments should only be used when necessary, as they can pollute the environment and harm both plants and animals. When using them, it is important to make sure they are applied correctly and do not spread beyond the area being treated.
Biodiversity
Many ant species play an important role in maintaining the local biodiversity and it is important to consider this when treating patio ants. If possible, try to identify the species of ant before taking any action.
Warning Signs
Look out for signs that indicate an infestation such as sightings of many ants, ants entering the home and visible nests in the garden or patio. Treating a problem early on can help to avoid a bigger issue later.
Conclusion
Patio ants can be a nuisance and must be dealt with quickly and carefully to avoid harm to the home and environment. Taking preventative measures to keep them away from the home in the first place is the best solution, but if an infestation occurs, there are a variety of options available to effectively get rid of patio ants.
