Ant Exterminator
Columbus Ohio

Over-the-counter sprays typically only eliminate the ants you see and don’t address the source of the problem. The most effective approach depends on the type of ant, where they’re coming from, and the severity of the activity. Champion technicians evaluate your home, identify the ant species and nesting behavior, and then determine the best course of action—whether that involves baits, targeted treatments, or a combination—to achieve long-term control.

Pest control can’t stop ants from existing outdoors, but it can be very effective at preventing them from establishing themselves inside your home. With routine service and targeted treatments, ants that attempt to enter come into contact with treated areas and are eliminated. Combined with sealing entry points and ongoing prevention, this approach helps keep indoor ant activity under control and greatly reduces recurring issues.

Some continued activity can be normal, especially outside the home, where ants remain part of the natural environment. Indoors, you may notice temporary activity as ants move through treated areas or interact with baits, carrying the product back to the colony. This process takes time, and indoor activity should gradually decrease over the next few days. Outdoor ants may still be visible, but treatments help prevent them from successfully entering and establishing themselves inside your home.

Yes. Carpenter ants can cause structural damage over time by hollowing out wood to build their nests. While they don’t eat wood like termites, their tunneling can weaken structural components if left untreated. Early identification and proper treatment help prevent long-term damage to your home

Yes. In Ohio, some ants are mainly a nuisance, while others can be more problematic. Carpenter ants are considered more destructive because they tunnel into wood and can weaken structures over time. Other common ants, such as odorous house ants and pavement ants, are typically nuisance pests and do not cause structural damage, though they can become persistent. Some ants may bite when disturbed, but most issues stem from their numbers and ability to repeatedly invade homes. Proper identification allows Champion technicians to choose the most effective treatment.

Ants are most active in spring and summer, when warmer temperatures increase food-searching and nesting behavior. However, in Ohio’s milder and warmer winters, ants can still appear indoors as they seek warmth, moisture, or food sources. Seasonal changes, including sudden temperature swings, can drive ants inside at unexpected times, which is why year-round preventative pest control is important.

Simple steps like keeping surfaces clean, storing food in sealed containers, and reducing moisture buildup can help limit ant activity. Sealing cracks, wiping up spills promptly, and keeping entry points clear also make a big difference. If measurable ant activity occurs between scheduled visits, Champion’s ongoing pest control programs include retreatments to address the issue and keep ants under control.

No. Flying ants and termite swarmers are often confused, but they are different insects. Termite swarmers have straight antennae, equal-length wings, and thick waists, while flying ants have bent antennae, uneven wing lengths, and narrow waists. Proper identification is important because termite swarmers can indicate nearby termite activity or a potential structural issue, while flying ants do not pose the same risk.

Some homeowners can reduce ant activity temporarily with DIY products, but these methods usually address only the ants you see. Ant colonies are often hidden, and without identifying entry points and nesting locations, the problem can continue or return. Professional treatment focuses on stopping ants from establishing themselves inside the home and preventing repeat issues, which is often easier and more effective than repeated DIY attempts.