Barrie’s location along the western shore of Lake Simcoe, paired with its mix of urban neighbourhoods, nearby forests, and humid lake air, creates ideal conditions for ant activity. As temperatures rise in the spring and summer, species like carpenter ants and pavement ants commonly invade homes and businesses in search of food, moisture, and shelter. For many residents in Barrie and surrounding communities, ant infestations are a recurring seasonal challenge.
If you're dealing with ants in your home or workplace, Abell Pest Control in Barrie is here to help. Our experienced technicians follow a proven strategy focused on prevention and targeted treatment. We identify how ants are entering, determine what’s attracting them, and apply effective solutions to eliminate the colony and reduce the risk of reinfestation.
Effective ant control starts with proper identification. Each species exhibits different behaviours and requires a customized approach to treatment.
These large black ants, known as carpenter ants, are notorious for nesting inside wooden structures. Instead of consuming the wood, they dig out sections to create galleries for their colonies. Their ideal habitats are places with moisture damage, including window frames or sills, leaky roofs, and humid basements. Outdoors, they like decaying trees or moist woodpiles. Indoors, look for them near plumbing, in hollow doors, or behind damp walls. They usually form a main nest and expand with satellite nests throughout the property. Nighttime is when they’re most active, and their presence indoors, especially during spring or summer, can signal an active infestation.
Citronella Ant (Large Yellow Ant)
The citronella ant, sometimes labeled the yellow ant, is an appealing shade of lemon yellow and nests in damp environments like soil under foundations. These ants feed on honeydew secretions of root insects and are harmless, but their summertime swarmer’s often wander indoors, causing minor disruption.
Often seen in and around homes, pavement ants are small, dark brown ants that thrive in urban settings. They build nests under sidewalks, driveways, and foundations, and typically enter homes through small structural cracks. While not particularly dangerous, they may sting or bite if disturbed. Their highly visible trails make them one of the easier ant species to spot.
Pharaoh Ants are tiny, fast-spreading ants with pale yellow colouring and darker rear segments. They form extensive colonies with multiple queens, and when disturbed, they split into new colonies, making them incredibly hard to eliminate. Common nesting areas include kitchens, bathrooms, and wall voids. They’re a frequent issue in hospitals, food facilities, and multi-unit housing due to their ability to spread bacteria and contaminate surfaces.
The European Fire Ants The European fire ant is an aggressive invader that thrives in shady, moist locations such as gardens, lawns, compost piles, and potted plants. Their venomous sting causes intense pain and irritation, turning peaceful yards into problematic pest zones.
Known for their oversized heads, big-headed ants often make nests in the soil surrounding homes. They're typically found under pavers, near foundations, or hidden in decaying wood and yard debris. These ants don’t harm structures directly, but their large colonies can be incredibly difficult to eliminate once established. Though primarily outdoor dwellers, changes in moisture or temperature may drive them inside. They’re frequently encountered in subtropical climates around the world.
What are the most common types of ants found indoors?
Several species of ants are commonly found inside homes, including carpenter ants, pavement ants, and pharaoh ants. Pavement ants typically nest in cracks in concrete or masonry, and pharaoh ants are notorious for rapidly spreading throughout buildings. Proper identification is crucial for effective control and long-term prevention.
How can I tell if I have an ant infestation in my home?
Common signs of an ant infestation include visible ant trails (in kitchens and along baseboards), small piles of dirt or sawdust near walls, and the presence of winged ants, which may indicate a mature colony. You may also notice ants clustering around food or moisture sources. If you see ants regularly, contact Abell.
What are the most dangerous or harmful types of ants to watch out for?
While most ants are simply a nuisance, some can pose risks. Carpenter ants can cause structural damage by tunneling through wood. Fire ants deliver painful stings and can trigger allergic reactions. Pharaoh ants can spread bacteria and are particularly problematic in hospitals. Identifying the type of ant is essential to understanding the risk and the best treatment approach.
How do I prevent ants from coming into my house?
Prevention starts with cleanliness and sealing entry points. Keep food sealed in airtight containers, clean up spills promptly, and take out the trash. Seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and foundations.
What’s the difference between regular ants and carpenter ants or termites?
Carpenter ants are larger than most household ants and are often mistaken for termites. Unlike termites, carpenter ants do not eat wood but excavate it to build nests, causing structural damage. A professional inspection can help determine which ant you are dealing with.
Do I need a pest control service for ants, or can I get rid of them myself?
DIY ant control might bring short-term relief, but it usually doesn’t solve the real issue. Ant colonies often nest deep inside walls or beneath the ground, areas that are tough to reach without professional tools and training. Without proper identification and treatment, the infestation is likely to return.
That’s where Abell’s team comes in. Our experienced technicians know how to pinpoint the species, locate hidden nests, and apply effective treatments that provide lasting protection.
Contact us today for professional ant control in Barrie. Our reliable local team responds quickly and delivers results backed by years of hands-on experience. Whether you’re looking for a one-time fix or ongoing prevention, we’re available 24/7 and every service is covered by our no-risk satisfaction guarantee.
How much does ant removal cost in Barrie?
Ant removal costs can vary based on the species, severity of the infestation, and the services needed. We can typically identify the ant species and provide you a quote right over the phone.
