How Do I Get Rid of Ants in My House?

Ants are one of the most persistent household pests, commonly invading homes in search of food, shelter, and water. In built-up areas such as Christchurch, ant infestations have become increasingly common, especially after environmental disturbances like heavy rainfall or prolonged dry spells. While DIY methods may temporarily reduce ant activity, professional treatment is often necessary to eliminate colonies and prevent future infestations.

Why Do Ants Invade Homes in Christchurch?

New Zealand is home to over 40 species of ants, with several introduced species thriving in urban environments. In Christchurch, certain ant species are particularly problematic due to their adaptability and nesting habits.

Common Ant Species in Christchurch

• Argentine Ant (Linepithema humile): Originally from South America, Argentine ants have spread rapidly in Christchurch, especially after the earthquake, as colonies were unknowingly transported in soil and pot plants. Areas such as New Brighton, Mount Pleasant, and Aranui have seen significant increases in their population.
• White-Footed House Ant (Technomyrmex albipes): Unlike other species, these ants struggle to survive outdoors in Christchurch’s colder climate and are mainly found inside houses, where they seek warmth and food.
• Darwin Ants: Often mistaken for Argentine ants, these smaller ants are known for their strong odor when squashed and are a common household nuisance.

How to Stop Ants from Entering Your Home

Ants typically invade homes for two primary reasons:

1. After Heavy Rainfall – Flooded nests force them indoors in search of dry shelter.
2. During Dry Spells – A lack of water outside drives them to look for moisture sources inside.

To reduce ant activity in your home, follow these prevention methods:

• Seal Entry Points: Identify and seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and walls to block ant access.
• Maintain Cleanliness: Keep kitchen counters, floors, and pantries free of crumbs and spills. Regular cleaning removes food sources that attract ants.
• Eliminate Water Sources: Fix leaks and avoid leaving standing water in sinks or pet bowls overnight.
• Disrupt Ant Trails: Wipe down ant trails with vinegar or lemon juice to remove scent markers that guide other ants inside.

While these measures can help reduce ant presence, they may not be enough to eliminate entire colonies, as worker ants often return to hidden nests.

Professional Ant Control: The Most Effective Solution

For long-term ant control, professional treatment is the most effective way to target colonies and prevent future infestations. Flick offers tailored ant treatments based on the species and severity of the infestation.

How Flick Pest Control Treats Ant Infestations

• Residual Treatments: Our technicians apply residual sprays around your home’s perimeter to stop worker ants from entering.
• Ant Baiting: We strategically place ant baits, which worker ants carry back to the colony, effectively eliminating the nest from within.
• Residual Granules: To ensure long-term control, granules are applied around outdoor areas where ants nest, providing extended protection against future invasions.

Simply wiping away ants in your kitchen provides only a temporary fix. To permanently eliminate ants, it’s essential to treat their colonies directly with a targeted, professional solution.

Get Rid of Ants for Good with Flick

Don’t let ants take over your home. If you’re struggling with persistent ant infestations, Flick’s professional pest control services provide long-term, effective solutions tailored to your specific needs.

Contact Flick today for expert ant control services in Christchurch and across New Zealand!