Visible Ant Trails
Lines of ants traveling between a food source and their entry point — along walls, countertops, or window sills.

Frass from Carpenter Ants

Sawdust-like material pushed out from wood by carpenter ants excavating their nest inside structural lumber.

Outdoor Mounds
Fire ant mounds or soil mounds near the foundation — colonies that will eventually enter the home.

Ants Near Moisture

Ants around sinks, dishwashers, or water-damaged wood — often odorous house ants or carpenter ants.

Flying Ants (Swarmers)

Flying ants near windows during spring and summer indicate a mature colony nearby that is reproducing.

Hollow-Sounding Wood

Specific to carpenter ants — wood that sounds hollow when knocked may contain carpenter ant galleries.

Exterior Perimeter Treatment

OTC sprays kill visible ants but miss the colony — often behind walls, under slabs, or in the ground. Professional treatment carries product back to the colony, eliminating the source.

Odorous house ants, carpenter ants, pavement ants, fire ants, and acrobat ants. Carpenter ants are especially common in Richmond homes with moisture issues or older construction.

They excavate wood to nest in it — they prefer wood softened by moisture. While less destructive than termites, a large colony causes significant structural damage over time and usually indicates a moisture problem.

Yes. EPA-registered products applied per label directions. We advise on specific re-entry times after treatment.

Our maintenance plan includes exterior perimeter treatment at every bimonthly visit, creating a barrier against entry. Unlimited service requests mean we return at no charge if activity resumes.