Why Ants are Showing Up in your Home and Why They Keep Coming Back

If you’re seeing ants in your home this time of year, you’re not alone. Ant activity increases in Iowa homes as temperatures shift and moisture levels change — even before it feels like full spring.

And if you’ve only seen one or two? That usually means there are more nearby.

Why Ants Come Indoors

Most ant problems start outside.

Common reasons ants move inside:

• Sudden temperature swings

• Heavy rain or snowmelt

• Searching for food

• Searching for water

• Cracks in foundations or siding

Ants don’t randomly “appear.” They follow scent trails — and once they find food, they keep coming back.

Why Ant Problems Often Get Worse

This is the part homeowners don’t always realize.

When you kill the ants you see:

• You’re only eliminating the workers

• The colony is still active

• The scent trail remains

That’s why ants often disappear for a few days… then return. Without treating the source, the cycle continues.

Where Ant Colonies Hide

In Iowa homes, we commonly see nests:

• Under concrete slabs

• Along foundations

• In wall voids

• Near moisture-prone areas

• Around exterior entry points

Indoor sightings are often just a symptom of a larger outdoor colony.

When to Call

If:

• You’re seeing ants daily

• They keep returning after sprays

• They’re concentrated in one area

• You notice them near sinks, pet bowls, or pantries

It’s usually time for a proper inspection. Ant problems are almost always easier (and cheaper) to solve early.

Ants are common — but recurring ant problems aren’t something you have to live with. If you’re noticing more activity than usual, it’s worth having someone take a look.