Ant Infestation in Yurt's Straw Bale Foundation – Ant-Proofing Tips Before Lime Recoat?

Hey folks,
We're in our second year living in our yurt supported on a straw bale foundation over a rubble trench. The lime plaster I applied last year failed, letting in moisture that damaged the underlying cob. I've since covered the area with a breathable vapor barrier to protect it temporarily — but that has become a breeding ground for ants (likely fire or red wood ants).

The straw bales themselves aren’t showing signs of infestation. The soil around the rubble trench is sandy, and the bales are covered in wire mesh to deter mice. I’ll be removing any remaining cob and rebuilding the lime exterior directly over the mesh as soon as nighttime temps are consistently warm.

Looking for advice on pest-proofing before I reapply the lime:

Should I aim to fully seal the exterior with lime?

Any lime-compatible additives or layers that help deter ants?

Would applying diatomaceous earth (or something similar) before plastering help?

Any natural methods that have actually worked for ant prevention in straw bale or earthen builds?

Ants have been a recurring issue here and I’d love to avoid turning this into an annual repair job. Grateful for any experience or ideas.

Here are some photos

Keep on the natural path if possible if you are battling the dreaded fire ant, it is tough job.  These painful demons make most of Georgia their stronghold.  My only success with deterring them has been with urine, one part mixed with 2 or 3 parts water and aged a couple of days.  Not suitable for a sweet-smelling home, I imagine, but try it on big nests nearby perhaps?

Diatomaceous earth can stunt their spread, in my experience.  A friend swears by old coffee grounds,he uses that with all ants,  but your situation might need a dump truck full.... you might give it a try around the entrance area as a shot across the bow.  Wishing you success my friend

I know Saint Francis of Asissi urged us all to love every living creature, but ........ i think fire ants are probably in the category of 'hellspawn'