As temperatures rise in early spring, ants become more active in Iowa and can find their way into homes. Whether dealing with tiny sugar ants in the kitchen or larger carpenter ants in the yard, an infestation is no good. Understanding why ants invade and taking the right preventive measures can help keep them out of your home this season — keep reading to learn more.
SEE ALSO: 6 Signs You May Have a Pest Problem
Why Do Ants Invade in the Spring?
Ants are cold-blooded insects, meaning their activity slows down in winter. As the weather warms, they emerge from their nests for food, water, and shelter. Spring rains can also drive ants indoors, leading them to find dry, safe spaces inside homes.
Some of the most common ant species in Iowa include:
Odorous House Ants – Small, black, or brown ants drawn to sugary foods.
Carpenter Ants – Larger ants that nest in wood and can cause structural damage.
Pavement Ants – Found near sidewalks and foundations, these ants often invade kitchens.
How to Prevent an Ant Infestation
The best approach to ants is to stop them before they become a problem. Here are some key prevention tips:
Seal Entry Points: Check for door, window, and foundation cracks. Use caulk or weather stripping to close gaps.
Eliminate Food Sources: Keep countertops clean, store food in sealed containers, and avoid leaving pet food out overnight.
Reduce Moisture: Fix leaks, use dehumidifiers, and ensure proper drainage to make your home less appealing to ants.
Trim Vegetation: Keep bushes, trees, and mulch at least a foot away from your home’s foundation to reduce ant access points.
Pest Control Solutions: Hire a professional for perimeter and indoor pest control treatments to deter ants from entering your home.
When to Call a Professional
While DIY prevention can help some, established ant colonies are tough to eliminate on your own. If you notice frequent ant trails, large numbers of ants, or recurring infestations, it’s time to call in a professional pest control service like Tiger Pride. We can help identify the source of the problem, treat existing colonies, and apply perimeter treatments to keep ants from coming back.
Keep Your Home Ant-Free This Spring
Ant infestations are common in Iowa as temperatures rise, but you can keep them at bay with the right steps. By sealing entry points, reducing attractants, and using professional pest control from Tiger Pride, you’ll have a much better chance of keeping your home ant-free all season long.