Pavement Ants: How to Get Rid of Them for Good

If you’ve ever spotted tiny black ants marching in a line across your kitchen counter or patio, chances are you’re dealing with pavement ants. These pesky invaders are common in Ohio, sneaking into homes in search of food and water. While they may seem harmless, pavement ants can quickly become a nuisance if left unchecked.

At Prevent Pest Control, we know how frustrating it is to battle an ant infestation. That’s why we’re here to help you understand what attracts pavement ants, how to prevent them, and—most importantly—how to get rid of them for good.

What Are Pavement Ants?

Pavement ants, also known as Tetramorium caespitum, are small, dark brown to black ants that grow to about one-eighth of an inch long. They get their name because they often nest under sidewalks, driveways, and building foundations. While their primary habitat is outdoors, pavement ants will invade homes, particularly in the warmer months, searching for food.

Some common signs of a pavement ant infestation include visible ant trails inside your home, especially in kitchens or pantries. You may also notice small piles of dirt or sand near cracks in sidewalks or foundation walls. Ant activity around pet food bowls or trash bins is another indicator that pavement ants have moved in.

How to Prevent Them

The best way to deal with pavement ants is to stop them before they enter your home. Keeping entry points sealed, food stored properly, and moisture levels controlled can go a long way in preventing an infestation.

• Seal Entry Points: Use caulk to close cracks around doors, windows, and your home’s foundation to prevent ants from sneaking inside.
• Store Food Properly: Keep pantry items in airtight containers, clean up spills immediately, and never leave dirty dishes in the sink overnight.
• Reduce Moisture: Fix leaky pipes and faucets to eliminate water sources that attract pavement ants.
• Keep Your Yard Clean: Trim back vegetation, remove yard debris, and keep mulch at least twelve inches away from your foundation.

How to Get Rid of Them for Good

If pavement ants have already invaded your home, don’t panic. There are several steps you can take to eliminate them quickly and effectively.

1. Locate and Destroy the Colony

Pavement ants typically nest underground, often beneath sidewalks, driveways, and even inside walls. If you can find their entry point, you can target their colony directly.

2. Use Ant Bait Instead of Sprays

While sprays may kill visible ants, they don’t eliminate the colony. Instead, slow-acting bait allows worker ants to carry the poison back to the nest, ensuring the entire colony is wiped out.

3. Keep Your Home Clean

Crumbs, grease, and standing water all attract pavement ants. Maintaining a tidy home helps prevent a reinfestation.

4. Call a Professional If Needed

If you’ve tried everything and the ants keep coming back, it’s time to call a professional. At Prevent Pest Control, we offer safe, effective, and contract-free pest control solutions that eliminate pavement ants for good.

Say Goodbye to Pests Today

Pavement ants are persistent, but you don’t have to live with them. Whether you’re dealing with a minor issue or a full-blown infestation, our team at Prevent Pest Control is here to help. With over 25 years of experience serving Ohio homeowners, we know exactly how to handle even the toughest pest problems. Call us today to schedule an inspection and say goodbye to pavement ants for good. Visit PreventPestControl.com to learn more.