Common Ants in Michigan Homes

Different ants respond to different strategies. Correct identification helps eliminate the colony faster and reduces the chances of recurring activity — especially around kitchens, bathrooms, and foundation entry points.

Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants are often associated with moisture issues and can excavate damp or damaged wood. While they don’t eat wood like termites, they can cause structural damage over time if the moisture source isn’t addressed.

Common clues: sawdust-like debris, activity near wet wood, ants around window frames or decks.

Pavement Ants

Common around foundations, driveways, and slabs. These ants typically enter through cracks in the foundation, expansion joints, or small gaps along the exterior perimeter.

Common clues: trails along baseboards, activity starting in spring, ants near garages and slab edges.

Odorous House Ants

Often called “sugar ants,” these are common kitchen invaders attracted to food and moisture sources. They can be persistent if the colony isn’t properly targeted and entry points aren’t reduced.

Common clues: ants returning after sprays, activity near sinks, pantries, pet food, or trash.

Quick note: If you’re unsure whether you’re dealing with carpenter ants vs. nuisance ants, we can identify the species and recommend the quickest treatment path.

Signs You May Need Professional Ant Control

A few ants can happen in any home — but repeated trails, daily activity, or ants showing up in multiple rooms usually means there’s an active nest nearby or an established entry point.

01

Common warning signs

Ant trails along counters, baseboards, or doorways

Kitchen activity near food storage, pet bowls, or trash

Bathroom ants near tubs, sinks, or plumbing penetrations

Winged ants (“swarmers”) near windows or lights

02

Signs the problem is established

They disappear then return after DIY sprays or bait

Activity in winter (can indicate indoor nesting)

Ants near foundation cracks, slab edges, or garage

Sawdust-like debris or rustling in wood (carpenter ants)

Pro tip: If you’re seeing ants every day for more than a week, it’s usually faster (and cheaper long-term) to treat the source and reinforce the exterior perimeter instead of chasing individual ants indoors.

Trusted Ant Control Services in Northern Macomb & Oakland County

Wells Pest Control provides professional ant control services throughout Romeo, Washington Township, Almont, Lake Orion, Rochester Hills and surrounding Michigan communities. Whether you're dealing with carpenter ants in damp wood, pavement ants along the foundation, or nuisance ants invading your kitchen, we identify the source of the infestation and apply targeted treatments designed for long-term control.

Our approach focuses on eliminating the colony, reinforcing the exterior perimeter, and helping prevent future activity — not just temporarily reducing visible ants. If you’re seeing recurring trails, indoor winter activity, or ants returning after DIY sprays, professional treatment can provide lasting relief.

Professional Ant Control in Romeo & Washington Township, MI

Targeted treatments that eliminate the colony — not just the ants you see.

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Local & Owner Operated • Carpenter & Pavement Ant Specialists • Serving Romeo, Washington Township & Nearby Areas

Our Ant Treatment Process

Ant control works best when it’s based on correct identification, targeted treatment, and strong exterior prevention. Here’s how we handle ant problems for long-term results — not just a quick knockdown.

01

Detailed Inspection

We identify the species, locate entry points, and determine likely nesting areas inside and outside the home.

02

Targeted Treatment

We use precise baiting and crack-and-crevice applications designed for the specific ant species.

03

Exterior Barrier Application

We treat the foundation perimeter and key access points to reduce re-entry and prevent new trails from forming.

04

Prevention Recommendations

We provide guidance to help reduce moisture and entry conditions, so your home is less attractive to ants going forward.

What to expect: Depending on the ant type and the treatment approach, you may see activity change over the next several days as the colony is eliminated. We’ll explain timelines and next steps during service.

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Why Store-Bought Sprays Often Don't Solve the Problem

Most over-the-counter ant sprays eliminate visible ants but do not address the colony itself. Killing the workers you see may temporarily reduce activity, but the nest continues producing more ants.

In some cases, improper treatments can cause certain ant species to scatter or "bud", creating multiple smaller colonies and making the problem worse. Without proper identification and targeted treatment, ant issues often return weeks later.

Professional inspection, correct bait placement, and exterior perimeter reinforcement are key to long-term control - not just short-term relief.

Bottom line: If ants keep coming back after sprays or traps, the colony likely has not been eliminated.

Ant Control FAQ

Quick answers to the most common questions we hear from homeowners. If you need help right away, call or text and we’ll point you to the fastest solution.

How long does ant treatment take to work?

Depending on the ant type and the strategy used, you may see changes quickly, but full colony control can take several days. Bait-based approaches often work best over time as ants carry the material back to the nest. We’ll explain what to expect during service.

Are treatments safe for kids and pets?

We use targeted applications and focus on precision (crack-and-crevice, entry points, and exterior perimeter) instead of unnecessary broad spraying. We’ll give clear guidance on any precautions for the day of service.

Do you treat inside the home or only outside?

Both, when needed. Long-term prevention is usually built around exterior barrier work and entry-point control, with interior treatment used strategically in key areas like kitchens, bathrooms, and active trails.

Are carpenter ants the same as termites?

No. Carpenter ants excavate wood (often damp or damaged), while termites eat cellulose. If you’re seeing wood damage or suspect carpenter ants, we can help identify what you’re dealing with and recommend next steps.

Why do ants keep coming back every spring?

Spring activity usually means nearby nesting and easy access points along the foundation, doors, utility penetrations, or landscaping edges. Perimeter reinforcement and entry prevention are key to breaking the seasonal cycle.

What areas do you service for ant control?

We provide ant control throughout Romeo, Washington Township, Almont, and surrounding Michigan communities (including nearby areas along the M-53 corridor). If you’re close and not sure, call or text — we’ll confirm availability quickly.

Do I need ongoing service or is one treatment enough?

Some ant problems are resolved with a single targeted service, while repeat hotspots (especially properties with moisture or recurring exterior pressure) benefit from seasonal protection. We’ll recommend the simplest option that solves the problem long-term.

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