Can Pest Control Get Rid of Ants Inside and Outside the Home?

May 8, 2025

Improvement

Can Pest Control Get Rid of Ants Inside and Outside the Home?

If you’re tired of ants in your home or yard, this post answers your big question—can pest control get rid of ants for good?

I’m just going to say it—ants are annoying.

They show up uninvited, walk all over your kitchen, and somehow get into sealed food.

If you’ve ever dealt with ants in your home, you know how frustrating it can be.

Maybe you’ve sprayed some stuff from the store, wiped down your counters five times a day, and still found a trail of ants marching in the next morning.

I get it. You want a real fix.

So let’s talk about it: can pest control get rid of ants? And not just for a few days—but long-term, both inside your home and outside in your yard.

Keep reading.

Why Ants Keep Coming Back

Here’s the thing—ants are tiny, but they’re not dumb.

They live in large groups (we’re talking thousands), and they’re good at finding food, warmth, and water.

That’s all they need to make themselves right at home in your space.

Here are a few reasons why they don’t go away easily:

You might kill the ones you see, but the colony is still alive somewhere else.
Ants leave scent trails that help the rest of the group follow.
DIY sprays only touch the surface—they don’t treat the root problem.
Outdoor ant hills can lead to repeat problems inside.

So yeah, without treating the colony directly, it’s like trying to mop up water while the faucet is still running.

What Pest Control Really Does for Ants

Let me be honest here. When I first called pest control, I wasn’t sure what to expect.

I figured they’d just spray something and leave. But it’s not that simple—and that’s a good thing.

If you’re asking can pest control get rid of ants, pay attention to what you’re about to read now.

Here’s what the pros actually do:

Inspection:
They check where the ants are coming from, how they’re getting in, and what kind they are. (Yes, the type of ant matters.)
Baiting:
Instead of spraying everything, they often use bait. The ants carry it back to their nest—and that’s how you take down the whole colony.
Barrier Treatment:
They spray or apply products around the outside of your home to stop new ants from coming in.
Monitoring and Follow-ups:
Some companies come back in a few weeks to make sure the ants are really gone. That matters because some ants can survive the first round if it’s not done right.

So yes, pest control can get rid of ants, but only when it’s done properly and completely.

Why You Need Both Indoor and Outdoor Treatment

Ants don’t care about your walls. They go back and forth between inside and outside like they own the place.

If your pest control plan only focuses on your kitchen or bathroom, you’re missing a big part of the problem.

That’s why outdoor treatment is just as important.

If you live in areas like Maryland or Frederick County, you’re probably used to seeing ants all over your yard.

Some ant nests are deep underground, especially in mulch or around patios.

To fully treat the issue, you need both:

Inside your home: Bait stations and safe indoor treatments for kitchens, bathrooms, and cracks.
Outside your home: Sprays and barriers that keep ants from finding new ways in.

This brings me to a bonus tip—lawn care matters, too.

If your yard is full of moisture, wood piles, or long grass, ants will love it. And that’s how they get close enough to sneak inside.

Why Lawn Care Plays a Bigger Role Than You Think

When I started paying attention to my yard, the number of ants inside my house dropped.

It turns out that basic lawn care and maintenance can really help cut down ant activity. Here’s what I started doing:

Cut the grass more often
Removed old wood and wet mulch near the house
Stopped overwatering the lawn
Kept bushes trimmed and away from my siding

If you live in Frederick County and you’re already thinking about your yard, let me point you to a reliable service.

I’ve heard good things about pest control Frederick County.

They know the local conditions, which makes a big difference in how they treat both your lawn and your ant issue.

Other Bugs You Might Be Letting In Without Knowing

Let’s be real. If ants are walking into your house like it’s a party, chances are, other bugs feel welcome, too.

I don’t say that to freak you out—but if you only focus on ants, you might miss the bigger issue.

That’s where full pest control comes in handy. A professional won’t just stop at ants.

They’ll check for:

Roaches
Spiders
Silverfish
Wasps or hornets outside

If you’re living in Maryland, having regular pest control Maryland services can save you from a bunch of gross surprises.

What to Expect After Pest Control

Let’s say you hire someone, they come to treat your house, and you start seeing dead ants everywhere.

You might think it didn’t work. But don’t panic.

Here’s what usually happens after pest control for ants:

You’ll see more ants at first. That’s normal. They’re bringing the bait back to the nest.
In about 1 to 2 weeks, things quiet down.
You might still see a random ant here or there—but no more full-on trails or infestations.

If you’re still seeing ants after 2 weeks, call the company back. Most offer follow-up visits for free or a small fee.

Good pest control companies stand behind their work.

DIY vs Professional Pest Control

I’ll admit it. I tried all the DIY stuff before calling a pro.

I used vinegar. I put cinnamon along the baseboards. I tried every spray I could find. And maybe you’ve done the same.

But none of that solved the problem in the long term.

Here’s what I learned:

DIY Pest Control	Professional Pest Control
Cheap upfront	Costs more but works faster
Might handle small infestations	Can eliminate full colonies
Needs frequent redoing	Long-term solution with follow-ups
Can miss hidden entry points	Inspects all possible access spots

So yeah, you can try to fix it yourself.

Don’t Forget Seasonal Treatments

Ants are worse at certain times of the year. Usually spring and summer.

That’s when they’re looking for food and water the most. So don’t wait until your kitchen looks like an ant farm.

Set up seasonal pest control if you live in high-activity areas like Maryland or Frederick County.

Trust me, it’s easier to stop ants before they show up than to chase them around afterward.

Pair that with some good lawn care Maryland services, and you’ll see a big difference.

Final Thoughts: Can Pest Control Get Rid of Ants?

Let’s bring it all back to the main question: can pest control get rid of ants?

Yes, it absolutely can. But you have to treat the root problem—not just the ants you see walking on your floor.

Professional pest control targets the colony, sets up long-term protection, and gives you peace of mind.

Quick tips to remember:

Keep your kitchen clean
Take care of your yard
Seal cracks and holes
Set up pest control every season

And if you’re in Frederick County, check out local help for both lawn care Frederick County and pest control that works.

I’ve been there. I know how tiring it feels. But trust me—once you stop the ants for real, you’ll never go back to living with them again.

May 7, 2025

Lifestyle

Can Child Care Expenses Be Split Between Parents?

Can child care expenses be split between parents? Learn how families handle shared child care costs, especially during travel, events, or when staying in hotels.

When you’re raising kids, there are always bills to pay. And child care is one of the big ones.

If you’re co-parenting, this question comes up quickly: can child care expenses be split between parents?

I’ll say yes. In many cases, they can. But it’s not always simple.

I’ve seen families argue over this, and it’s not because anyone is trying to be difficult.

It’s just that the rules can be confusing, especially when one parent is doing more of the day-to-day work or when you’re living in different places.

In this post, you’ll get answers that make sense, even if you’re stressed, short on time, or just trying to figure out what’s fair.

Let’s begin.

What Does It Mean to “Split” Child Care Expenses?

Let’s start here: when we say child care expenses can be split, we’re talking about both parents sharing the cost of someone watching the kids while one or both of them work, go to school, or even travel.

These expenses might include:

Daycare
A nanny
Babysitters
After-school care
Even care at hotels or events

Some parents split it 50/50. Others go with a different split based on who earns more.

Some follow a court order. Others just talk it out and make it work.

But yeah, the money part can feel heavy if you don’t have a clear plan.

What Do Courts Say About Splitting Child Care Costs?

If there’s a custody agreement or child support plan in place, it probably mentions child care.

Courts usually expect both parents to contribute based on their income.

So if Parent A makes more than Parent B, then Parent A might pay more.

Here’s a simple way some states look at it:

Add both parents’ incomes together.
Figure out what percent of the total each parent makes.
Use that to decide who pays what.

Let’s say you make $60k, and the other parent makes $40k. That’s $100k total. You make 60%, so maybe you pay 60% of child care, and they pay 40%.

It’s not always this clean, though. Some states treat child care like a separate category.

Others wrap it into child support.

You’ve got to check your local rules. And if things are tense between you and the other parent, it’s smart to get things in writing or talk to a family lawyer.

What If There’s No Court Order?

Now, maybe you don’t have a legal setup. You and the other parent are just figuring it out as you go.

That’s okay. A lot of people do that.

Here are a few tips that can help:

Talk early and often. Don’t wait until there’s a big bill.
Keep it fair. If one parent works late and the other handles pickup, maybe balance that with who pays what.
Write stuff down. Even a quick text or email can help avoid fights later.

And you know, sometimes things change. Maybe one parent loses a job or picks up more hours.

That might mean it’s time to adjust how you split things.

Shared Child Care When Traveling

Travel adds a whole new layer to this.

Let’s say one parent is traveling for work and needs help watching the kids. Or you’re both going to a wedding and want someone to help out.

This is where child care for travelers becomes a real thing.

And yes, the question of “Can child care expenses be split” applies here, too.

Here are some examples:

You’re in NYC and need child care for travelers NYC for a business trip.
You’re staying at a hotel and use hotel child care services.
You bring a nanny with you or hire one locally.

The fair thing? Talk before the trip. Who’s going to pay for the care? Will you split the cost of a nanny NYC just like you would back home?

Also, don’t forget about taxes. If you’re hiring help during a trip, make sure you’re not missing anything legal or financial that could bite you later.

When Hotel Child Care and Event Services Are Needed

Now, let’s talk about times when you’re not at home.

Hotel child care and event child care are becoming more common—especially in big cities like NYC.

Let’s say you’re attending a conference or wedding and need help during the event. Some hotels even offer Hotel Pet Care NYC if you bring your family dog.

So the question again arises: can child care expenses be split for something like this?

Yes, but only if both parents agree it’s needed.

One parent might say, “Hey, I don’t think we need it,” and that can cause friction.

Here’s what works better:

Plan ahead. Don’t spring it last minute.
Be clear about the purpose. If it’s for work, it may be easier to agree on.
Keep receipts. These can help if things ever get messy.

I’ve seen people fight over stuff like this when they could’ve just had a quick phone call.

What About When You’re Not Together?

Maybe you’re co-parenting but living in different cities. Or you’re divorced and trying to co-raise your kids in peace.

In these situations, every little thing matters.

Here’s how you can keep it smooth:

Share a calendar. So both parents know who’s paying for what.
Use an app to track shared expenses.
Be flexible. If one month is tighter for one parent, adjust when needed.

Child care NYC isn’t cheap. However, when both parents care about their children, they usually find a way to do it.

Event Child Care and Special Situations

Ever go to a wedding or conference and see a bunch of kids being cared for in another room?

That’s event child care, and sometimes, parents use these services when they can’t leave their kids at home.

These costs might be split too—if both parents agree that attending the event is important.

If one parent is paying for an event or hosting it, they might expect the other parent to pitch in for the child care.

Just make sure the care is provided by someone trusted.

High-authority sites like Care.com or UrbanSitter are good places to check when you’re picking a sitter or nanny.

Do Nannies Count in These Expenses?

Yes. If you’re hiring a nanny in NYC, that’s definitely considered part of child care.

Just like with daycare or babysitters, these costs can be split. But again, you both have to agree.

If one parent uses a nanny more often, they might need to pay more.

Some parents handle it by:

Each paying a set amount monthly
Paying based on how many hours the nanny helps each parent
Covering the nanny during their own parenting time

Conclusion

So… can child care expenses be split?

Yes, but it depends on your situation.

Here’s what I want you to remember:

Talk about it. The earlier, the better.
Write it down. So no one forgets or gets confused.
Be kind. You’re both doing the best you can.
Adjust as life changes. Jobs, schedules, and money can shift. Stay open.

Parenting is already a lot. Paying for child care doesn’t have to be one more fight.

Work together, keep it simple, and stay focused on what’s best for the kids.

May 7, 2025

Tech

Purpose of Office Equipment: Why It’s Essential for a Productive Workspace

Curious about the purpose of office equipment? We show how printers, copiers, and other tools boost efficiency, cut costs, and keep your business moving.

Every serious business owner knows this truth:

You can have top talent and a smart strategy, but if your team is stuck with outdated or unreliable office equipment, your productivity, and profitability suffers.

It’s not just about machines.

It’s about how the right tools help your people do their best work without constant friction.

In this post, we’ll break down:

What office equipment actually includes (it’s more than desks and chairs)
How the right setup supports workflow, communication, and compliance
Common mistakes that kill team productivity
The underrated power of an MFP copier in modern offices
And why companies across Dallas rely on A1 Image for trusted office solutions

Let’s dive in.

What Counts as Office Equipment, Really?

Office equipment includes everything your team uses to function day to day.

We’re not talking about basic décor or personal items, we’re talking about productivity gear.

Here’s a simple list of essentials:

✅ Standard Equipment

Desks and chairs
Filing cabinets
Shelving units
Whiteboards

✅ Tech & Devices

Desktop computers
Laptops
Monitors
Smartphones or VoIP phones

✅ Output Equipment

Printers
Scanners
Copiers
Label makers

✅ All-in-One Machines (Like MFPs)

Print
Copy
Scan
Fax
Cloud storage integration

Together, this equipment forms the backbone of daily operations — no matter your industry.

Why Office Equipment Matters More Than You Think

You don’t realize how essential equipment is until it slows you down.

Here’s what efficient, high-quality office equipment supports:

1. Faster Workflows

When your team can print, scan, or access files in seconds — instead of minutes — your whole day runs smoother.

2. Stronger Communication

Reliable phone systems, collaboration tools, and multifunctional printers (MFPs) keep departments in sync.

3. Data Security

Modern equipment has built-in protections to prevent breaches, lost files, and unauthorized access.

4. Cost Control

Yes, better machines can save you money.

They use less energy, need fewer repairs, and reduce outsourcing.

5. Scalability

As your business grows, your office equipment should grow with it — not hold you back.

Office Productivity Killers (And How to Spot Them)

If any of these feel familiar, it might be time to upgrade:

Employees waiting in line for a shared printer that always jams
IT tickets piling up for constant maintenance or weird copier codes
Remote teams struggling with scanned documents or poor cloud access
Monthly costs ballooning from outdated leases or inefficient tech
Compliance headaches due to unsecured fax or print methods

You wouldn’t ask your team to work with one hand tied behind their back.

But that’s exactly what poor equipment does.

Spotlight: What Is an MFP Copier and Why Do You Need One?

Let’s talk about one of the most underrated power tools in the office:

The MFP copier.

MFP = Multifunction Printer

It’s a single device that does the work of 4+ machines:

Prints high volumes quickly
Copies documents and ID cards
Scans to cloud storage or email
Faxes securely (yes, many industries still use this)
Offers document finishing like stapling, binding, or booklet folding

Why It’s a Game-Changer:

Saves space in smaller offices
Boosts productivity by eliminating wait time and breakdowns
Reduces energy use with smarter, greener tech
Supports hybrid teams with mobile print and cloud scan access
Improves professionalism with sharp, client-ready materials

If you’re still juggling separate printers, scanners, and copiers, it’s time for a serious rethink.

Case Example: Growing Marketing Agency in Dallas

A creative agency with 15+ staff had:

A cheap inkjet printer from a big-box store
A basic scanner that couldn’t handle multiple pages
Team members emailing documents to themselves to “scan from home.”

Result? Missed deadlines, annoyed clients, and a frustrated team.

They upgraded to a Sharp MFP copier from A1 Image.

What changed:

Full team access to mobile printing and scanning
Built-in security for client data
Reduced outsourced printing costs by 60%
Maintenance handled by A1 Image’s responsive team

Now their office runs faster, and their clients notice the difference.

Why A1 Image Is the Vendor We Recommend

Not all office equipment providers are created equal.

And if you’ve ever dealt with shady leases, poor service, or pushy upselling, you already know this.

Here’s why A1 Image stands out:

✅ They Listen First

Before recommending anything, they ask questions — about your goals, team size, budget, and future growth.

✅ Trusted Brands, No Junk

They work with Sharp and Kyocera, two of the most reliable names in business tech. No throwaway models.

✅ Real Support, Not Just Sales

Their technicians don’t disappear after installation.

They offer real maintenance, repairs, and training — so your team can actually use the tech well.

✅ Transparent Pricing

No surprise charges.

Just clear options for buying, leasing, or upgrading, with honest breakdowns of long-term cost.

This is the partner to trust if you’re in Dallas or nearby.

How to Choose the Right Equipment (A Quick Checklist)

Before buying or leasing anything, run through these must-ask questions:

Function

Does this do what my team needs daily?

Can it scale with us over the next 3–5 years?

Speed

How quickly does it perform high-volume tasks?

Can it handle peak workflow hours?

Security

Does it protect sensitive information?

Is it HIPAA or SOC-compliant if needed?

Integration

Will it work with our existing systems (cloud, email, storage)?

Is there mobile access for hybrid or field teams?

Support

Who do I call when it breaks?

Is ongoing maintenance included or separate?

This is where a partner like A1 Image becomes essential — they help you answer these upfront.

Buying vs. Leasing: What Makes More Sense?

Another common question:

Should I buy or lease our office equipment?

The answer? It depends.

Buying is better when:

You want long-term savings
You plan to use the equipment for 5+ years
You can afford the upfront cost

Leasing is better when:

You want to preserve cash flow
You want regular tech upgrades
You prefer predictable monthly expenses

A1 Image offers flexible leasing options that make high-end MFP copiers accessible to small and mid-sized teams without crushing your cash.

Final Word: Equip Your Office for the Work You Actually Do

Your office equipment should serve your goals, not slow you down.

It should free up time, not waste it.

It should reduce errors, not cause them.

It should support your team, not create roadblocks.

Whether you’re running a law firm, a marketing agency, a nonprofit, or a healthcare office — quality gear matters.

And the difference between just “getting by” and “thriving” often comes down to this behind-the-scenes setup.

Looking for real solutions?

Don’t just grab the cheapest printer off the shelf.

Work with a vendor who knows your needs and delivers tech that truly supports your workflow.

That’s A1 Image.

Whether you need to buy new gear or get an MFP copier on lease, they’ll help you set up a workspace that works for you, your team, and your bottom line.

May 7, 2025

Business

Where to Buy Office Equipment: Best Places to Get Quality and Value

Need advice on where to buy office equipment? Discover trusted stores, online options, and tips for getting the best deals on printers, copiers, and more.

If you’ve ever tried buying office equipment without a plan, you know how frustrating it gets fast.

Do you go to a big-box store or local vendor?
Lease or buy outright?
Trust online deals or go with a name you’ve heard before?

There’s a lot of noise out there, and office tech isn’t cheap.

One wrong call, and you’re stuck with gear that breaks down, doesn’t integrate with your workflow, or lacks real support when things go wrong.

This guide walks you through the smart way to buy office equipment, whether you’re starting a new business, upgrading your setup, or building out multiple locations.

First, What Falls Under “Office Equipment”?

When we say “office equipment,” we’re not just talking about desks and chairs.

We’re talking about:

Multifunction printers and copiers
Desktop and laptop computers
Monitors and docking stations
Telecom systems
Scanners and fax machines
Shredders, projectors, networking tools
Office software & document management systems

Every piece of tech should do one of two things:

Make your team’s work faster, smoother, or more secure
Help you deliver better service to your clients or customers.

If it doesn’t do either, it’s a waste, no matter how good the deal looks.

Common Mistakes When Buying Office Equipment

Let’s clear up a few myths that trip up small business owners:

1) Buying Only Based on Price

Going cheap might feel smart short-term, but you’ll pay more in repairs, downtime, and frustration.

Instead, balance cost vs. value.

2) Buying Without a Service Plan

What happens when it breaks? If your vendor can’t guarantee support or fast repairs, you’re on your own.

3) Ignoring Compatibility

Make sure your devices work with your current systems—especially for printing, network security, and remote access.

4) One-Size-Fits-All Approach

What a legal firm needs is different from a construction company, clinic, or school. Buy for your workflow, not someone else’s.

The Two Buying Paths: Retail vs. Professional Vendors

Let’s break down where most people look first—and what to know about each.

1. Retail Stores (Best Buy, Staples, Office Depot)

Pros:

Easy to browse
Fast in-stock pickup or delivery
Occasional discounts and bundles

Cons:

Limited selection for business-grade equipment
Sales reps often don’t understand complex office setups
No ongoing service or tech support

Retail might work for a basic monitor or shredder, but for copiers, networks, or phone systems? You need more than shelf browsing.

2. Professional Office Equipment Vendors

Pros:

Expert guidance on the best gear for your needs
Service contracts, installation, and support included
Enterprise-level brands you won’t find in retail
Long-term relationships (not one-time sales)

Cons:

Might have slightly higher upfront cost
Requires vetting to avoid pushy or outdated vendors

But when it comes to multifunction printers, scanners, and communication systems, most growing businesses take this route.

The Case for Leasing Over Buying

Let’s say you’re in Dallas and trying to set up a mid-size office.

Instead of spending $12,000 on an advanced copier outright, many choose a Dallas copier lease to spread costs, include service, and make upgrades easier.

Benefits of Leasing:

Low upfront investment
Maintenance and supplies included
Option to upgrade after a few years
Predictable monthly payments

If your business is evolving or growing, leasing offers more flexibility without locking your capital into aging equipment.

6 Must-Have Traits in a Reliable Office Equipment Provider

If you’re ready to invest, here’s what to look for in a trustworthy vendor:

1. Full Needs Assessment

They should ask what kind of business you run, how your team works, what problems you’ve had, and what you’re trying to fix.

If they jump straight into pricing without understanding your setup, that’s a red flag.

2. High-Quality Brand Partnerships

They should offer trusted names like Canon, Sharp, Kyocera, HP, and others—not just off-brand models with flashy marketing.

3. In-House Service Team

Support is only as good as the people behind it. A top-tier vendor has their own certified technicians, not outsourced repairs.

4. Flexible Lease and Purchase Options

One-size-fits-all packages don’t cut it. You want choices: buy, lease, rent short-term, or upgrade as you go.

5. Installation and Training Included

Good vendors don’t just drop off equipment. They help set it up, train your team, and make sure everything runs smoothly from day one.

6. Excellent Local Reputation

Search reviews. Ask other businesses in your area who they use. A good vendor doesn’t need to oversell; they let results speak.

Why We Recommend A1 Image

If you’re in Texas, you don’t need to look far. A1 Image is one of the most trusted names in the business—and for good reason.

They’ve helped businesses across Dallas and beyond set up smarter, more efficient office systems with zero fluff or pressure.

Here’s why they stand out:

Over 30 years of experience serving the Dallas–Fort Worth area

Specialize in Sharp and Kyocera—two of the most reliable office copier brands on the market
Offer customized copier leases, equipment sales, and full-service maintenance
Known for honest pricing and fast, professional support
Family-owned, community-focused, and committed to long-term client relationships

Whether you need one multifunction printer or are building out a multi-site system, A1 Image takes the time to understand your workflow, and deliver the right tools to match.

They should be your first call if you’re serious about getting the best gear without the guesswork.

Quick Comparison: Top Places to Buy Office Equipment

Vendor Type	Best For	Not Ideal If
Retail (e.g. Staples)	Basic needs, solo entrepreneurs	Need ongoing support or commercial gear
Online (Amazon, Newegg)	Tech-savvy buyers who know exactly what they want	Need setup help or service
Local Dealer (e.g. A1 Image)	Full office builds, support, long-term leasing	Looking for the absolute lowest upfront cost
Manufacturer Direct	Enterprise-level orders	Smaller offices needing personalized advice

Tips for Stretching Your Budget Without Compromising Quality

Office gear doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s how to get the most value:

Bundle Equipment: Many vendors offer discounts when you lease printers and phones together.
Ask for Refurbished Models: Certified refurbished equipment can be 30–50% cheaper with the same support.
Watch Lease Terms Closely: Don’t agree to 5-year terms unless it comes with upgrades or buyout options.
Buy What You Use Most: Lease the expensive stuff (like copiers), but purchase affordable accessories (like monitors or cables).

Final Thoughts: Don’t Just Buy—Invest Smart

Office equipment isn’t about what’s shiny or cheap, it’s about what helps your team work better, faster, and more efficiently.

Whether upgrading one department or launching a new business, the right vendor makes all the difference.

Look beyond the sticker price.
Look at support.
Look at how they treat your business goals like their own.

And if you’re in the Dallas area, A1 Image is the first name we recommend. They’ve earned that trust over decades and continue delivering on it daily.

Take 15 minutes. Reach out to A1 Image and ask for a consultation. You’ll walk away with clearer pricing, honest advice, and equipment that actually works for your business.