Ant infestations are a common problem in Cleveland, Ohio, especially during the warmer spring and summer months. Cleveland’s urban neighborhoods, aging buildings, and proximity to Lake Erie create ideal conditions for ants to invade homes and businesses in search of food, water, and shelter. Without proper treatment, these infestations can quickly become a major nuisance.
Abell Pest Control offers professional ant control services across Cleveland and surrounding areas. Our licensed pest control technicians specialize in identifying ant entry points, locating nests, and applying targeted, eco-friendly treatments to effectively eliminate ants. Whether you need ant removal for your home, rental property, or commercial building, we provide customized solutions designed to prevent future infestations.
Carpenter Ants are wood-nesting insects that often invade homes seeking damp, decaying timber. Unlike termites, they don’t eat wood—they hollow it out to create nests. These ants usually target high-moisture zones like basements, under bathtubs, or behind window frames. They may enter through damaged wood, foundation cracks, or unsealed roof edges. Outside, they nest in logs or rotting trees; inside, they prefer wooden voids near water sources. Seeing these ants in your home, especially in the evening, may point to a hidden carpenter ant nest that needs prompt attention.
Pavement ants are among the most noticeable ant species in urban areas, often forming long trails that signal an active infestation. They nest under concrete surfaces like sidewalks and driveways and often enter buildings through cracks near doors and windows. While generally not harmful, they can bite or sting if they feel threatened.
Pharaoh Ants are tiny, yellowish ants that form large colonies with multiple queens. They thrive in warm, humid indoor environments such as wall voids, kitchens, and bathrooms. Particularly problematic in apartment buildings, healthcare facilities, and foodservice settings, these ants are known for contaminating food and surfaces, making them a persistent nuisance.
Citronella Ant (Large Yellow Ant)
The citronella ant, often called the larger yellow ant, is found throughout much of North America. These ants are known for their yellow-brown coloring and the citrus-like odor they release when crushed. They prefer to build their nests in damp environments, such as under logs, in moist soil, or around building foundations. Although they don’t pose a threat to humans and don’t contaminate food, their tendency to swarm indoors during the warmer months can be bothersome. Instead of typical household food, they feed on the sugary honeydew secreted by underground insects.
Big-headed ants are named for their distinctively large heads compared to their small bodies. They are often found nesting in soil near homes, especially under patio stones, foundations, rotting wood, and tree stumps. Although these ants don’t cause direct structural damage, their massive colonies can be tough to eliminate and may lead to ongoing infestations. Typically, outdoor dwellers, they may invade indoor spaces when environmental factors like weather force them to relocate. Big-headed ants are widespread in subtropical climates around the world.
Should I try DIY ant control or call a professional?
Over-the-counter ant sprays and bait traps may reduce visible activity, but they rarely eliminate the root of the problem. Ant colonies often nest behind walls, beneath floors, or outdoors in hard-to-reach areas. Without proper treatment, ants typically return.
Abell Pest Control offers professional ant extermination services throughout Cleveland. Our licensed technicians are trained to identify the exact species, locate hidden nests, and use targeted treatments designed for long-lasting results in residential and commercial properties.
Whether you're facing a small ant problem or a larger infestation, our team provides fast, reliable service backed by decades of experience and a satisfaction guarantee.
What types of ants are commonly found in homes in Cleveland?
Several ant species are known to invade homes and businesses in the Cleveland area. The most common include:
Correct species identification is essential to applying the most effective treatment and preventing future infestations.
Which types of ants are most harmful?
Identifying the species helps determine the risk level and the urgency of treatment.
How do I know if I have an ant infestation?
Here are some common signs of an ant problem in your home:
If any of these signs are present, it’s time to schedule a professional inspection with Abell Pest Control in Cleveland.
What can I do to prevent ants from getting into my home?
To reduce the risk of an ant infestation in your Cleveland home:
Regular pest control inspections can catch early signs of a problem before it grows.
What is the difference between carpenter ants and termites?
While both pests damage wood, they behave differently:
