Ants: Everything Hampton Roads Homeowners Need to Know

If you've ever walked into your kitchen and seen a line of ants marching across your countertops, you're not alone. Ants are one of the most common pest problems for homeowners in Hampton Roads, especially during the warmer months. While they might seem harmless at first, ant infestations can quickly become a nuisance and in some cases, a serious structural or health concern.

In this post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about ants, from why they’re entering your home to how to get rid of them and keep them out for good.

Why Do Ants Come Inside Your Home?

Ants are always on the hunt for three things:

1. Food

2. Water

3. Shelter

If your home provides any of those—especially easy-to-access crumbs, sugary spills, or moisture near sinks or in crawlspaces—ants will be quick to move in. Common entry points include cracks in walls, foundation gaps, window frames, and even electrical outlets.

Types of Ants in Hampton Roads

Here in Coastal Virginia, you're likely to see several species of ants—some more problematic than others. Here's a quick breakdown:

1. Odorous House Ants

• Small, dark brown or black

• Known for the rotten coconut smell they release when crushed

• Often found in kitchens and bathrooms

2. Carpenter Ants

• Large black ants (can be ¼ to ½ inch)

• Don’t eat wood, but tunnel through it, causing structural damage

• Usually found in damp or rotting wood, such as crawlspaces or attics

3. Pavement Ants

• Small brown or black ants

• Nest under driveways, patios, and foundations

• Enter homes looking for greasy or sweet food

4. Argentine Ants

• Highly invasive and build supercolonies

• Form long trails, especially after rain

• Tough to eliminate without professional help

Are Ants Dangerous?

While most ants are a nuisance more than a threat, some species can cause more serious problems:

• Carpenter ants can compromise the structure of your home.

• Odorous ants and Argentine ants contaminate food sources.

• Some ants can bite or sting, although it’s rare for Hampton Roads species to pose a health risk.

Still, no one wants ants crawling through their pantry, sinks, or children's toys.

How to Tell if You Have an Ant Problem

Here are some signs you may have more than just a stray ant or two:

1. You see long trails of ants—especially near food or water sources.

2. You notice tiny piles of sawdust, which could signal carpenter ants.

3. You spot winged ants (swarmers)—a possible sign of a nearby colony.

4. You hear rustling in walls or soft wood (advanced infestations).

How to Prevent Ants from Entering Your Home

The best way to deal with ants is to stop them before they start. Here are a few prevention tips:

1. Seal entry points: Use caulk or weatherstripping around windows, doors, and baseboards.

2. Clean up food promptly: Don’t leave pet food out and wipe down counters regularly.

3. Fix moisture issues: Ants love damp areas. Fix leaks under sinks or in crawlspaces.

4. Store food properly: Use sealed containers for cereals, sugar, snacks, and grains.

5. Take out trash often: Especially in summer, when ants are most active.

DIY Treatments vs. Professional Ant Control

Many homeowners try DIY ant baits or sprays, which may help temporarily—but often don’t solve the root issue. Here’s why:

• Store-bought bait may only kill worker ants, not the queen.

• Sprays can scatter the colony, making the infestation worse.

• Different ant species require different treatment methods.

That’s where professional help comes in.

What Busby Precision Pest Can Do

At Busby’s Precision Pest & Damage Control, we provide targeted ant control solutions for homes in Hampton Roads. Our process includes:

1. Accurate species identification

2. Inspection of entry points, nests, and food/water sources

3. Custom treatment plans using safe, effective products

4. Ongoing prevention options to keep ants out for good

Whether you're dealing with an active infestation or just want to prevent future issues, we're here to help.

When Is Ant Season in Hampton Roads?

Ants are most active from March through October, especially after rain or in humid weather. Carpenter ants and Argentine ants are particularly active in late spring and early summer, when they swarm to form new colonies.

If you're seeing ants now—especially in large numbers—it’s a good time to schedule an inspection.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ants

Q: Will ants go away on their own?
A: Not likely. Ants leave behind scent trails, which other ants follow. Even if one trail disappears, the colony will often find a new way in.

Q: Are ant baits safe for pets and kids?
A: Many over-the-counter baits can be toxic if ingested. We use pet-safe, professional-grade treatments and always inform you of safety precautions.

Q: How long does professional treatment take to work?
A: You’ll often see a noticeable reduction in ant activity within 24–48 hours, and full colony control within 1–2 weeks depending on severity.

Say Goodbye to Ants—for Good

Ants may be small, but they can cause big headaches. If you’re tired of dealing with trails on your countertops or carpenter ants damaging your crawlspace, let Busby’s Precision Pest handle it.

BUSBY PRECISION PEST & DAMAGE CONTROL is locally owned, fully licensed, and committed to protecting homes across Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, and the surrounding areas.

👉 Schedule Your Inspection Today