How To Get Rid Of Ants: A Louisville Homeowner’s Guide

If you've spotted a trail of ants marching through your kitchen or bathroom, you're not alone. Ant infestations are one of the most common pest problems in Louisville, KY—especially during the warmer months. But don’t worry. With the right steps, you can kick them out and keep them out.

In this post, we’ll walk you through how to get rid of ants in your Louisville home, prevent future invasions, and when it’s time to call a professional.

Why Are Ants So Common in Louisville?

Louisville’s humid subtropical climate provides the perfect environment for ants to thrive. From odorous house ants to carpenter ants, these pests are constantly on the move looking for food, water, and shelter.

Common Ant Species in Louisville

• Odorous House Ants – Small and black; known for the rotten coconut smell they release when crushed.
• Carpenter Ants – Large black ants that can cause structural damage by tunneling through wood.
• Pavement Ants – Usually nest under driveways, sidewalks, and foundations.

Signs Of An Ant Infestation

Ants are persistent and often go unnoticed until they’ve fully established a colony in or around your home. Spotting just one or two ants isn’t always a cause for alarm—but if you see consistent activity, that’s when you should pay attention. Here are some real signs that point to a potential infestation:

• Ant trails: A visible line of ants moving along walls, countertops, or baseboards—often heading to a food or water source
• Frequent sightings: Regularly spotting ants in the same area, especially in kitchens, bathrooms, or near pet bowls
• Ant nests: Small piles of dirt, sand, or soil near the foundation, under pavers, or along the edge of sidewalks or driveways
• Wood shavings: A sign of carpenter ants, which can tunnel through wood and leave fine debris near baseboards or window sills
• Winged ants (swarmers): Flying ants indoors—especially around windows or lights—can indicate a mature colony nearby

If you’re noticing two or more of these signs, it’s time to take action before the problem spreads.

How To Get Rid Of Ants In Your Home

Getting rid of ants isn't just about spraying the ones you see — it’s about targeting the colony they came from. To effectively eliminate ants in your Louisville home, follow these steps in order:

Cut Off Their Food and Water Sources

Ants enter your home looking for the basics: food and moisture. Removing what attracts them is the first—and most important—step.

• Wipe down counters, sinks, and floors daily to remove spills and crumbs
• Store food in airtight containers (especially sweets and pet food)
• Take out the trash regularly and rinse recyclables
• Fix any leaky faucets, pipes, or standing water in sinks and tubs

Find and Seal Entry Points

Ants are tiny and can squeeze through almost any gap. Inspect your home carefully to block their paths inside.

• Seal cracks and gaps around windows, doors, baseboards, and foundations
• Install door sweeps and repair torn window screens
• Use caulk to close gaps around utility lines or pipes entering the house

Use Baits, Not Sprays

Sprays may kill a few ants on contact, but they don’t reach the heart of the colony. Baits, on the other hand, are designed to be taken back to the nest.

• Place ant bait stations near trails, entry points, and problem areas
• Avoid using sprays near bait stations — this will repel ants and reduce effectiveness
• Be patient: It can take several days to a week for the bait to eliminate the entire colony

Maintain a Clean Barrier Around Your Home

Outdoor conditions can invite ants indoors if you're not careful. Keep the perimeter of your home clean and ant-resistant.

• Trim shrubs and tree branches away from the house
• Keep mulch and firewood at least 12 inches from the foundation
• Check outdoor trash bins for tight-fitting lids and clean them regularly

Trust Louisville’s Local Experts for Lasting Ant Control

When ant problems persist despite your best efforts, professional help can make all the difference. A licensed technician will accurately identify the source, eliminate the colony, and help prevent future infestations with safe, effective solutions.

For reliable, long-term results, turn to experienced ant exterminators in Louisville who understand the unique pest challenges local homeowners face.