Introduction

Noticed large ants marching through your kitchen or basement? These aren’t just harmless visitors—they could be destructive carpenter ants, moisture-loving odorous ants, or other invasive species. At Eastside Pest, we specialize in big ant extermination services that tackle infestations at the source. Whether you’re dealing with a few scouts or a full-blown colony, this guide will help you identify, eliminate, and prevent big ants in your house—backed by 15+ years of local expertise in Vancouver.

Let’s reclaim your home from these unwelcome invaders!

Identifying Big Ants in Your Home – Common Species & Signs

Big ants in your house are often a sign of a deeper problem. Here’s how to spot them:

Common Types of Big Ants

1. Carpenter Ants:
   • Size: ¼ to ½ inch long, black or red-black.
   • Signs: Sawdust-like frass near wood, rustling noises in walls.
   • Risk: They tunnel through wood, causing structural damage.
2. Odorous House Ants:
   • Size: ⅛ to ⅓ inch, dark brown/black.
   • Signs: Strong coconut-like odor when crushed.
   • Risk: Attracted to sweets and moisture, contaminating food.
3. Field Ants:
   • Size: Up to ½ inch, red, black, or brown.
   • Signs: Mounds near foundations or in yards.

Key Signs of an Infestation

• Trails of ants near food or water sources.
• Frass (wood shavings) around baseboards or windowsills.
• Hollow-sounding wood (carpenter ants).
• Nests in wall voids, under floors, or in damp areas.

Why DIY Identification Fails: Big ants often confuse homeowners. At Eastside Pest, we use infrared cameras and moisture meters to locate nests and assess damage. Schedule a free inspection to know exactly what you’re up against.

DIY Ant Control – Temporary Fixes vs. Professional Solutions

While DIY methods can reduce ant numbers, they rarely eliminate colonies. Here’s what works—and what doesn’t:

✅ Effective Temporary Fixes

1. Bait Stations:
   • Use borax-based bait to lure worker ants back to the nest.
   • Place near trails but away from pets/kids.
2. Vinegar Spray:
   • Mix equal parts white vinegar and water to disrupt scent trails.
3. Seal Entry Points:
   • Caulk cracks in foundations, windows, and doors.

🚫 Ineffective DIY Methods

1. Cinnamon/Pepper: Repels ants temporarily but won’t kill the colony.
2. Over-the-Counter Sprays: Scatter ants, worsening the infestation.

When to Call Eastside Pest: If ants return within days or you spot winged swarmers (a sign of a mature colony), it’s time for professional big ant extermination services.

Why Eastside Pest’s Ant Removal Services Stand Out

Not all ants are created equal—and neither are exterminators! Here’s why we’re the top choice for big ant removal:

1. Targeted Treatments:
   • Carpenter Ants: Inject insecticide dust into nests and replace damaged wood.
   • Odorous Ants: Deploy gel baits and moisture control strategies.
2. Eco-Friendly Solutions:
   • Boric Acid Baits: Low-toxicity and effective against colonies.
   • Diatomaceous Earth: Natural powder dehydrates ants on contact.
3. Guaranteed Results:
   • 30-Day Warranty: Free follow-ups if ants return.
   • Damage Assessments: Check for structural issues caused by carpenter ants.
4. Local Expertise:
   • Serving Greater Vancouver for 15+ years.
   • Certified by the Pest Management Association of BC.

Pro Tip: Ask about our seasonal prevention plans to keep ants out year-round!

Eco-Friendly Ant Extermination – Safe for Families, Deadly for Ants

At Eastside Pest, we prioritize safety without compromising results:

• Botanical Insecticides: Derived from neem oil and citrus extracts.
• Heat Treatments: Eliminate ants in wall voids without chemicals.
• IPM Strategies: Focus on sealing entry points and removing attractants.

Did You Know? Our green treatments are safe for pets and approved for homes with kids or allergies.

Preventing Big Ants – Tips from Eastside Pest’s Exterminators

Stop ants before they invade:

1. Fix Moisture Issues:
   • Repair leaks, clean gutters, and use dehumidifiers in basements.
2. Store Food Properly:
   • Keep sweets, pet food, and grease in airtight containers.
3. Trim Vegetation:
   • Cut tree branches and shrubs away from your home.
4. Regular Inspections:
   • Schedule bi-annual checks with Eastside Pest to catch risks early.

Ant Myths Debunked

Don’t fall for misinformation!

❌ Myth: Big ants are harmless.
✅ Fact: Carpenter ants cost homeowners thousands in structural repairs annually.

❌ Myth: Clean homes don’t get ants.
✅ Fact: Ants invade for moisture and shelter, not just food.

❌ Myth: DIY sprays solve infestations.
✅ Fact: Sprays kill workers but leave colonies intact.

Conclusion

Big ants won’t back down—but neither will we! With same-day inspections, eco-friendly treatments, and lifetime prevention strategies, Eastside Pest ensures your home stays ant-free.

Act Now!
📞 Call 604 916 1437
🌐 Visit eastsidepest.ca

Don’t let ants take over—let Eastside Pest handle it!

FAQs

Q: Do big ants bite?
A: Carpenter ants can bite if threatened, but their jaws aren’t venomous.

Q: Can ants return after treatment?
A: With our 30-day warranty, we’ll retreat for free if they do!

Q: How do ants enter homes?
A: Through cracks, vents, and even electrical wiring.

Q: Are your treatments safe for gardens?
A: Yes! We use pet- and plant-safe products.