Ant Control in Vermont
Carpenter ants and pavement ants are covered as part of our Residential Quarterly Plan. Plus all carpenter ant treatments are guaranteed for 6 months.
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The black carpenter ant is the most common ant in the eastern states. The carpenter ant varies in size from 1/4” to 5/8” or more in length. These ants are able to withstand cold because they generate glycerol in their bodies whenever the temperature falls below a certain point. These aggressive ants are among the largest ants found invading homes for foraging and nest building purposes. They typically dwell in and excavate wood — from decayed wood to sound wood.
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A typical colony may contain approximately 2,500 workers, a single queen, and some reproductive males. It takes three to six years before they produce reproductive ants and swarm. They may invade a home and not be noticed for years, while they chew out an intricate system of galleries. Workers often make slit-like openings through the surface of infested wood and expel their borings, which accumulate beneath in characteristic piles of fibrous sawdust called frass.
Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ant
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Our carpenter ant treatment consists of interior and exterior control. Baiting, drilling wall voids, and exterior applications are all used. In our opinion and experience, exterior treatments are by far one of the most effective tools in successful carpenter ant treatment. The ants will be foraging to and from the infested structure and must cross the insecticidal barrier. In the process, the active ingredient will adhere to the ants. Once back in the colony, they will infect other ants through feeding and contact. Within a month the carpenter ant nest or nests will be eliminated.
Carpenter Ant Treatment
Carpenter ant damage to wood and rigid foam board. Notice the smooth and clean appearance of the galleries chewed into the wood.
6 MONTH GUARANTEE
We have a 6 month guarantee on our carpenter ant treatments. For a detailed inspection and estimate, give us a call today!
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Pavement ants are a common problem we see here in Vermont. These ants may infest a home at any time of the year, and are often seen in kitchens around food. Small and reddish brown in color, they are also known as called sand ants. These ants will also infest yards, sidewalks, and driveways, with little sand hills being visible. Interior control consists of baiting as well as crack and crevice treatments. Exterior applications can be done to foundations and infested cracks in the driveway and sidewalk.
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Pharaoh ants are 1/16” long and gold in color. These ants may number over 10,000 in a colony, with multiple queens present. Care must be taken in treating, as any pressure exerted upon the colony may force them to split into several separate colonies. Thorough, long-term baiting plans are often the most effective treatment.
There are many other species of ants that we deal with on a regular basis. As always, feel free to call our office to speak with us or to schedule a detailed inspection and estimate.
Pavement Ants, Pharaoh Ants, & Other Ants
Pavement ant
Pharoh ant colony
Frequently asked questions
Are carpenter ants common in Vermont?
Yes, black carpenter ants are the most common ant species in Vermont. They thrive in cold climates thanks to their unique ability to produce antifreeze-like chemicals.
What signs should I look out for to detect carpenter ants?
Signs of carpenter ant activity include sawdust piles, hollowed wood, rustling sounds from nests, alates (winged ants) emerging in the spring, and worker ants traveling along structural wood. If you observe trails of large black ants in or around your home, contact an exterminator for identification and control before major damage occurs.
Can ants damage my property?
Carpenter ants can cause structural damage to homes and buildings by tunneling through wood to create nests. If left untreated, a carpenter ant infestation can lead to costly repairs. Other ant species can contaminate food and surfaces.
How can I get rid of ants in my home?
The most effective way to eliminate ants from your home is to contact a professional pest control service. PestPro can assess the extent of the infestation and recommend appropriate treatment options, such as baiting or insecticide application.
Do I need a professional to remove carpenter ants?
While DIY methods exist, professional ant control is highly recommended. Carpenter ants can cause extensive structural damage. Professionals have the expertise and treatments to eliminate the entire colony, not just visible workers effectively.
How do the methods of baiting, drilling wall voids, and exterior applications differ in terms of effectiveness and application?
Baiting targets ants indirectly by allowing them to carry toxic bait back to their colony, making it effective for eliminating entire colonies. Drilling wall voids provides direct access to ant nests within walls or inaccessible areas, making it highly targeted and effective for localized infestations. Exterior applications create a barrier that prevents ants from entering the structure and can be a proactive measure to control ant populations before they become a problem indoors.
How can I schedule a detailed inspection and estimate for ant control?
Feel free to call our office to speak with us or schedule a detailed inspection and estimate for ant control. PestPro has over 25 years of experience serving Vermont and is committed to providing safe and effective solutions. We're here to help!