Ant control in Vancouver

We provide total protection from from carpenter, pavement, pharaoh, argentine and other common ants.

Ant control services

Since approximately 75 species of ants are found in British Columbia, ant control has become important for homeowners and businesses. Some common ant species in the region include Argentine ants, pavement ants, carpenter ants, fire ants, and pharaoh ants. Each species has its own unique behaviour, nesting habits, and potential impact on properties, making it important to accurately identify the type of ant infestation for effective control and prevention strategies.

Unfortunately, the majority of DIY pest treatments merely eradicate the visible ants; in fact, hundreds more may be on their way. A professional pest control service is necessary to completely eradicate the infestation and stop ants from entering your house again.

Our Ant Control Process

Thorough Home Inspection

We begin with a detailed inspection of both the interior and exterior of your home. Our technician identifies the ant species, tracks their movement, locates possible nesting sites, and finds the entry points and attractants drawing them inside. This gives us a clear understanding of how the infestation started and the best way to eliminate it.

Targeted Treatment Plan

Based on the inspection, we create a targeted treatment plan using proven, effective products. These may include non-repellent sprays, gel baits, granular treatments, or crack-and-crevice applications. Each method is chosen to reach the colony—especially the queen—ensuring complete elimination rather than temporary relief.

Interior and Exterior Protection

We treat key interior areas such as kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and wall voids, along with establishing a protective barrier around the exterior foundation. This dual approach stops ants quickly and helps prevent new infestations.

Follow-Up & Monitoring

Some ant colonies require more than one treatment. We provide follow-up visits when needed to ensure the infestation is fully resolved and that any recurring activity is addressed promptly.

Common Ants We Treat

Different ants require different treatment strategies. Our technicians are trained to identify and manage the most common ant species found in British Columbia, including:

Image of a pavement ant

Pavement ants

The reason pavement ants receive their name is because they build their nests under or in cracks in pavement. Structures may also get infested by these dark brown to black ants.

Image of a carpenter ant

Carpenter ants

A carpenter ant is a large ant species known for excavating wood to create nests. Unlike termites, they do not consume wood but can cause structural damage. They are typically black or red and black, and can range in size from 1/4 to 1/2 inch.  They are known for damaging wood structures.

Image of a Pharaoh ant

Pharaoh ants

The pharaoh ant is a small, yellow to light brown ant species known for its prolific nesting habits and difficulty to control. They are notorious indoor pests, forming extensive colonies in buildings and feeding on a variety of foods, including sweets, oils, and proteins.

Image of an Argentine ant

Argentine ants

The Argentine ant is a small, light to dark brown ant native to South America. Known for forming large colonies with multiple queens, these ants are highly invasive and can displace native ant species. They thrive in urban and agricultural areas, often entering homes in search of food.

Image of a fire ant

Red Imported Fire Ants

A fire ant is a small, reddish-brown insect known for its aggressive behavior and painful sting. Native to South America, these ants form large colonies and build noticeable mound nests. They are invasive pests in many regions, causing damage to crops, livestock, and posing health risks to humans and animals.

Image of a winged ant

Winged ants

Did you know that winged ants are not a species? They are reproductive members of any ant colony, often seen during mating season, known as “nuptial flights.” They resemble flying termites but have pinched waists, bent antennae, and two differently sized wings. These flying ants can swarm in large numbers, particularly after rain, seeking new areas to establish colonies, which can lead to infestations indoors

What to Expect After Treatment

It’s normal to see some ant activity for 7–14 days following your treatment. This is a sign that the products are working and ants are carrying them back to the colony. Activity will dramatically decline as the treatment spreads throughout the nest. Your technician will explain what to expect based on the species and severity of your infestation.

Preventing Future Ant Problems

While our treatments eliminate the current infestation, the following steps can reduce the likelihood of future ant activity:

  • Fix moisture issues such as leaks or damp wood.
  • Seal cracks and gaps around doors, windows, and foundations
  • Trim vegetation away from the home’s exterior
  • Store food in airtight containers
  • Keep counters, floors, and pet feeding areas clean

During your visit, our technician will point out areas that may benefit from simple preventive measures.

Why Professional Ant Control Works Better Than DIY

DIY sprays often kill the ants you can see but cause the colony to split, scatter, or relocate—making the problem worse. Our treatments are designed to be undetectable to ants and are carried back to the colony, where they eliminate the entire population at the source. This creates long-lasting results that household sprays simply cannot achieve.

Why Choose 1st Pest Control?

Experienced Professionals

We provide fast, reliable ant control paired with eco-friendly practices and industry-leading expertise. Our team understands local ant behavior and uses safe, targeted solutions to eliminate infestations efficiently. With transparent pricing, trained professionals, and options for follow-up maintenance, we ensure your home stays protected year-round.

Safe & Effective Solutions

At 1st Pest Control, safety is at the core of every treatment we provide. Our ant control methods are designed to protect your family, pets, and the environment while effectively eliminating the infestation. We use targeted, low-toxicity products and modern application techniques that focus on precision rather than heavy chemical use.

Comprehensive Service

We handle everything needed to fully solve your pest problem from start to finish. This includes a detailed inspection, targeted treatment of all affected areas, protection both inside and outside your home, and follow-up support to ensure the issue is completely resolved. We also provide prevention tips and tailor our approach to your specific situation, giving you a complete, worry-free solution.

Ready to Rid Your Home of Pests? Contact 1st Pest Control Now for Expert Treatments.

Promotions for new customers at 1st Pest Control

New to 1st Pest Control?

Enjoy 10% OFF your first treatment service.

Enter Code NEW10 in the contact form

1st Pest Control is 100% Canadian Owned and Operated

We help remove pests and wildlife, and help prevent them from coming back! - Fast and efficiently


FAQs - Ants

What is the fastest way to get rid of ants in a house?

The fastest way to get rid of ants is to locate the nest, eliminate food sources, and use targeted bait products that worker ants carry back to the colony. Professional ant control is usually the quickest long-term solution.

How do I know if I have a carpenter ant infestation?

You likely have carpenter ants if you see large black ants, wood shavings, rustling noises inside walls, or flying ants indoors. These signs usually indicate a nest is present.

What attracts ants to my home?

Ants are attracted to food scraps, sugary spills, moisture, and accessible entry points like cracks and gaps around windows and doors.

Are ant baits better than sprays?

Yes. Ant baits are generally more effective than sprays because they allow worker ants to carry poison back to the nest, eliminating the entire colony rather than just killing visible ants.

How long does professional ant control take to work?

Professional ant control typically starts working within 24–48 hours, with full colony elimination taking 1–2 weeks depending on the species and nest size.

Why do ants keep coming back?

Ants return when the colony isn’t fully eliminated or when food and moisture sources remain accessible. Hidden satellite colonies can also cause recurring infestations.

Pharaoh Ant