Ant problems are a frequent concern for homeowners and businesses in Toledo, Ohio, particularly during the warmer spring and summer months. The city’s combination of historic neighborhoods, tree-lined streets, and proximity to the Maumee River and Lake Erie creates an environment where ants can easily thrive. Residents in areas like Old West End, Ottawa Hills, Point Place, and South Toledo often encounter persistent infestations from species such as carpenter ants, pavement ants, and pharaoh ants.
Abell Pest Control proudly serves the Toledo area with professional, reliable ant control services. Our licensed technicians begin with a comprehensive inspection to identify the type of ants, locate entry points, and assess the extent of the infestation. We then apply effective treatments that are specifically targeted to the species involved, helping to eliminate the problem and prevent it from returning.
If you're looking for trusted ant control in Toledo, Abell Pest Control offers fast, effective service with proven results. We develop customized treatment plans for both residential and commercial properties, ensuring long-lasting protection.
A carpenter ant infestation can result in significant structural damage over time. These large ants dig into wood to form nests, often in moisture-prone areas like attics, under sinks, and near leaking windows. While they don’t consume the wood, their excavation weakens it. Outdoors, carpenter ants commonly inhabit rotted logs or stumps, while indoor nests are found in cabinets, hollow doors, or wall voids. Entry points include foundation cracks, rooflines, and siding gaps. Spotting these ants inside your home, especially at night, is one of the first signs of a problem that shouldn’t be ignored.
Citronella Ants (Large Yellow Ant)
The citronella ant, also known as the large yellow ant, is commonly found across many regions of North America. Recognizable by their yellowish-brown colour, these ants emit a lemony scent when crushed. They typically nest in moist areas like beneath logs, within damp soil, or near the bases of buildings. While they aren’t harmful to humans and don’t spoil food supplies, their habit of invading homes during warm weather can become a nuisance. Rather than scavenging for human food, citronella ants primarily consume the sweet honeydew produced by subterranean insects.
Urban environments provide the ideal habitat for pavement ants, which often nest beneath sidewalks, driveways, and building slabs. These small brown ants enter homes through tiny cracks and crevices, especially around entry points like doors and windows. While they aren’t dangerous, their bite or sting can be mildly irritating. Their presence is usually first noticed by the long, steady trails they form indoors.
Tiny and yellow, Pharaoh ants are a challenging pest to manage indoors. They form large colonies with several queens and multiply rapidly by budding. These ants often nest in warm, moist areas like bathrooms, behind walls, and inside appliances. They’re particularly troublesome in healthcare settings, food prep areas, and multi-family housing due to the contamination risks they pose.
Big-headed ants stand out because of their unusually large heads, which are much bigger than their bodies. They favor nesting in soil-rich environments around homes, such as under patio slabs, wood piles, and foundations. While not destructive to property, they can create persistent problems due to the sheer volume of ants in a colony. Though outdoor insects by nature, they may enter buildings when weather conditions change. These ants are especially common in subtropical regions across the globe.
Do I need a pest control service for ants, or can I get rid of them myself?
While DIY methods may offer short-term solutions, they rarely address the root of the problem. Without proper identification and treatment, ant colonies, often hidden deep in walls or underground, can quickly return.
Professionals like the team from Abell are trained to identify the ant species, locate nests, and apply targeted treatments that deliver long-term results.
Call now for expert, and removal in Toledo. Our trusted local team delivers fast, professional service backed by years of experience and commitment. Whether you need a one-time removal or long-term prevention, we're here 24/7 to help and every job is backed by our satisfaction guarantee!
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.
Common Ants Found Indoors
Several species of ants are commonly encountered inside homes, including carpenter ants, pavement ants, and pharaoh ants. Carpenter ants’ tunnel through moist or decaying wood, potentially leading to structural damage. 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.
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.
How much does ant removal cost in Toledo?
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.
