Trusted Ant Control Services for Homes and Businesses in Detroit

Ant infestations are a common issue for homeowners and business owners throughout Detroit. The city’s seasonal humidity, older architecture, and urban greenery create favorable conditions for ants to thrive. These pests often enter buildings in search of food, water, or shelter, especially during warmer months, becoming a persistent and frustrating problem.

Abell Pest Control offers professional ant control solutions across the Detroit area for both residential and commercial properties. Our licensed specialists perform thorough inspections to find out where ants are coming from and apply targeted treatments to eliminate them effectively and safely. Every property is different, so we create a treatment plan tailored to your specific situation to stop current infestations and prevent new ones from forming.

Identifying the specific ant species is the first step toward successful treatment. Our Detroit-based team understands the habits and behavior of local ants, allowing us to select the most effective pest control strategy for your home or business.

 

Carpenter Ants

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

Pavement ants are a common pest in urban areas, known for building their nests under concrete slabs, sidewalks, and driveways. These ants can make their way indoors through cracks and gaps near windows, doors, and other entry points. While they rarely pose a serious threat, they can bite or sting if handled. One of the earliest indicators of an infestation is the appearance of visible ant trails.

 

Pharaoh Ants

Tiny and yellow with dark rear segments, 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.

 

Citronella Ants (Large Yellow Ant)

Citronella ants, often referred to as larger yellow ants, are widely found across North America. They’re recognized by their yellowish color and the lemon-like smell they produce when crushed. These ants build nests in damp spots such as under wood, in wet soil, or near home foundations. They don’t bite, damage property, or go after human food, but their indoor swarming in warmer seasons can be annoying. Instead of typical food sources, they rely on the sweet honeydew secreted by insects living underground.

 

Big-Headed Ants

Big-headed ants are easily identified by their oversized heads relative to their bodies. They typically nest in soil around structures, under foundations, patio stones, rotting wood, tree stumps, and debris. While they don’t cause structural damage, their large colonies can be difficult to control and may lead to persistent infestations. Though usually outdoor nesters, changes in environmental conditions can drive them indoors. They are commonly found in subtropical regions worldwide.

 

Ant problems are common in Detroit, especially during the warmer months when ants move indoors searching for food and water. Whether you live in a downtown home, a suburban neighborhood, or near wooded areas, these practical prevention tips can help protect your property:

 

  • Store food properly. Use sealed containers for all pantry items and clean up spills, crumbs, and pet food immediately. Regularly wipe counters and sweep floors to remove food sources.
  • Seal entry points. Inspect doors, windows, and your foundation for small cracks or gaps. Sealing these areas helps block ants from entering your home.
  • Fix moisture issues. Leaky pipes, taps, and roof areas can create damp environments that attract carpenter ants. Reduce indoor humidity, especially in basements and kitchens.
  • Maintain your yard. Trim trees and shrubs that touch your home. Remove leaf piles and avoid stacking firewood near the foundation, as these areas are prime nesting spots for ants.
  • Keep garbage areas clean. Use sealed bins, empty them often, and wash them regularly to eliminate food residue and odors that draw ants.
  • Schedule regular inspections. Abell Pest Control provides pest prevention services in Detroit. Routine inspections can help catch early signs of ant activity before a full infestation occurs.

Questions and Answers

Is it better to handle an ant problem on my own or bring in a pest control service?

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.

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.

Which ant species are most frequently found inside Detroit homes?

Detroit homes and businesses often deal with a few main types of ants. These include:

  • Carpenter ants, which are large and prefer to nest in wood that has been weakened by moisture. If ignored, they can cause serious structural damage. • Pavement ants, which commonly build nests in sidewalk cracks, foundations, and driveways.
  • Pharaoh ants, small and pale-colored, reproduce rapidly and are difficult to control without professional assistance.

Knowing exactly which species you're dealing with is essential for choosing the right treatment and avoiding repeat infestations.

 

Which ant species pose the greatest risk?

  • Carpenter ants are considered the most destructive because they carve tunnels through wood to create nests, which can weaken a building’s structure over time.
  • Pharaoh ants are a health concern, especially in medical and food service settings, as they can carry and spread bacteria.

Proper identification of the species helps assess the threat level and determine how quickly treatment should be applied.

 

What are the warning signs of an ant infestation?

You might have an ant problem if you notice any of the following:

  • Lines of ants traveling along walls, floors, or countertops
  • Tiny piles of sawdust, soil, or insect fragments near baseboards or other entry points
  • Winged ants appearing inside your home, which can signal an active and mature colony
  • Recurring sightings of ants in areas like the kitchen, bathroom, or basement If these signs show up, it’s a good idea to contact Abell Pest Control in Detroit for a professional inspection.

How do carpenter ants and termites differ?

Although both pests can damage wood, they have different behaviors and feeding habits:

  • Carpenter ants dig through wood to build their nests but do not consume it as food
  • Termites eat wood, which can lead to widespread and hidden damage
  • Carpenter ants are more likely to be seen out in the open, while termite problems often remain undetected until the damage is severe A licensed pest control technician can identify the pest and recommend the right solution.

What should I expect to pay for professional ant control in Detroit?

The price of ant extermination services depends on several factors, including:

  • The species of ant involved
  • How widespread and severe the infestation is
  • The treatment method best suited to your situation

Abell Pest Control typically offers free estimates, either over the phone or after an initial inspection, to help you understand your options and costs.



Are you dealing with an Infestation?

Give us a call or fill our Free Estimate Form!
Service Area

About the author:

Since 1924, Abell Pest Control has provided quality services, protecting our customers and their patrons from coast-to-coast. Our customers enjoy the expertise and resources of a national provider. Prouder yet, we are members of your community, ready to service your home or business 24/7.

We are reliable experts in pest control—experts who care. At Abell Pest Control, we bring experience, efficacy and knowledge to customers who are looking for a fast, safe and effective solution to their pest problem.

Check Us Out

Our Credentials