As the Irish summer sets in, bringing longer days and warmer weather, it’s not just barbecues and garden parties that become more frequent — so do unwanted visitors like ants and wasps. At Discreet Pest Control, we often see a surge in calls during the summer months from homeowners and businesses looking to deal with these seasonal pests. While they may seem like a minor nuisance at first, both ants and wasps can cause real problems if left unchecked.
Here’s what you need to know about keeping these common summer invaders out of your home — and what to do if they’ve already settled in.
Why Are Ants and Wasps More Active in Summer?
Summer provides the ideal conditions for ants and wasps to thrive. The warmth speeds up their life cycles, making colonies grow more quickly. For ants, summer is a prime time to forage for food and expand their nests. Wasps, on the other hand, are at their most active in mid to late summer, when their colonies are fully established and their search for sweet food intensifies.
Ireland’s increasingly mild and humid summers can make homes particularly attractive to these pests. Crumbs on the kitchen floor, uncovered bins, sugary drinks left outside — they’re all like neon signs saying “free food here!”
Signs of an Ant Infestation
- Lines or clusters of ants, especially in the kitchen or near food sources
- Small piles of fine dirt or sand around doors or skirting boards (these may be ant nests)
- A sudden increase in activity during hot spells, especially after rain
Black garden ants are the most common species found in Irish homes. They don’t pose a health threat, but they’re relentless in their search for food and can quickly become a nuisance.
Signs of a Wasp Problem
- Frequent sightings of wasps around your home or garden
- A constant buzzing noise coming from the loft, wall cavities, or sheds
- Visible nests (often papery in texture and found in sheltered spots like attics, eaves, sheds, or trees)
Wasps can be aggressive if they feel threatened, especially if you go near their nest. Their stings are painful and potentially dangerous for those with allergies.
Prevention Tips: Stop the Invasion Before It Starts
1. Keep Food and Bins Secure
Both ants and wasps are attracted to sugary or protein-rich food. Keep all food sealed in containers, clean up crumbs right away, and make sure your bins have tight-fitting lids. Wasps are particularly drawn to meat and sweet drinks — so be careful during outdoor meals.
2. Block Entry Points
Inspect your home for cracks in walls, gaps in door frames, or unsealed windows. Use silicone sealant or weatherproof caulk to block off common entry points. Mesh screens can also be fitted on air vents and windows to allow air in but keep pests out.
3. Deal with Standing Water
Like all living creatures, ants and wasps need water. Remove standing water around your garden, including birdbaths, plant saucers, or blocked gutters. This also helps reduce mosquito activity.
4. Avoid DIY Nest Removal
If you discover a wasp nest, do not try to remove it yourself. Wasps will defend their colony aggressively and multiple stings can be dangerous. Professional treatment is the safest and most effective option.
What to Do if You Already Have a Problem
Ants
- You can start by cleaning surfaces thoroughly with vinegar and water, which helps remove scent trails.
- Commercial ant powders and bait traps may work for small infestations.
- For large or recurring problems, professional treatment is the most reliable solution. Our technicians use targeted gel baits and insecticides that are safe for your family and pets.
Wasps
- If you suspect a nest is nearby — even if you can’t see it — call Discreet Pest Control immediately.
- We use safe, fast-acting treatments and protective equipment to deal with wasps efficiently and without risk to your household.
- Early intervention is key: nests get bigger as summer progresses, making them more dangerous and harder to remove.
Why Choose Discreet Pest Control?
Based in Dublin, Kildare, Wicklow, and Carlow, we understand the unique challenges of pest control in Irish homes and businesses. Our experienced technicians offer:
- Fast, discreet call-outs
- Environmentally conscious and pet-safe treatments
- Long-term solutions, not just quick fixes
- Honest advice and friendly, local service
Final Thoughts
Summer should be a time to enjoy your home and garden — not to battle pests. By following a few simple prevention steps and acting early, you can keep ants and wasps outside where they belong.
Already spotted signs of a problem? Don’t wait until the situation gets worse. Contact Discreet Pest Control today for expert help you can trust.
