King County’s Annual Spring Ant Invasion Why It Happens (And How to Stop It for Good)
Every spring, homeowners and businesses across King County report the same problem: tiny ants suddenly swarming kitchens, bathrooms, and commercial spaces. From Sammamish to Bellevue, Redmond to Renton, the calls for ant extermination spike in March and April and if you’re seeing ants this season, you’re not alone.
This guide explains why ants invade, which species are most common in King County, and what you can do to stop them before they take over your home or business.
Why Ants Invade in the Spring
Ant activity increases dramatically when temperatures warm up and colonies wake from winter dormancy. Here’s why you’re seeing ants now:
- Warmer Temperatures: Ant colonies that were dormant underground send out foragers once soil warms.
- Moisture Buildup: Spring rain and leaky roofs create perfect nesting conditions in crawl spaces and wall voids.
- Food Scouting: Crumbs, pet food, and garbage become easy targets.
- Commercial Heat: Restaurants, cafeterias, and office kitchens provide warmth and consistent food sources.
Even spotless homes and well-maintained businesses are vulnerable ants go wherever the environment is warm, wet, and food friendly.
The Most Common Ants in King County Homes & Businesses
Sugar Ants (Odorous House Ants)
These small black ants are notorious for forming long trails into kitchens and pantries. They’re attracted to sweets, grease, and crumbs.
Carpenter Ants
Much larger than sugar ants, carpenter ants can hollow out damp wood to create nests — sometimes causing structural damage.
Pavement Ants
Usually nest under sidewalks and driveways, but can invade ground-level kitchens when populations grow.
Learn More About Our Ant Control Process →
Homeowner Spring Ant Prevention Checklist
Seal Food: Store cereal, sugar, and pet food in airtight containers. Fix Leaks: Check under sinks and around appliances for water leaks. Wipe Trails: Clean counters and floors with vinegar solution to remove scent trails. Seal Entry Points: Caulk cracks around windows, doors, and foundation gaps. Trim Vegetation: Keep shrubs and tree branches from touching siding. Use Bait (Not Spray): Sprays can scatter colonies baiting is more effective.
Business & Commercial Kitchen Checklist
Daily Sanitation: Sweep, mop, and wipe down prep areas nightly. Seal Waste Bins: Keep dumpsters closed and far from building entrances. Employee Training: Teach staff to report sightings early. Professional Monitoring: Schedule seasonal inspections to avoid health code issues.
Explore Commercial Pest Solutions →
Eastside & King County Hotspots
Sammamish: Ant trails inside outlets and baseboards Bellevue: Condo kitchens reporting sugar ant swarms Redmond: Commercial kitchens seeing fast infestations Issaquah: Outdoor patios and door trims attracting ants Kent & Renton: Warehouse and breakroom issues growing with spring warmth
If you live or work in these areas, act early before ants establish permanent colonies inside your walls.
When DIY Isn’t Enough
If you’re still seeing trails after 48 hours of baiting, you may have a deeper nest issue requiring professional treatment.
Request a Spring Ant Inspection →
FAQs – Spring Ant Problems in King County
Q: I sprayed ants last week why are they back?
A: Sprays kill visible ants but don’t reach hidden colonies. Without baiting, they’ll just re-route and return.
Q: Can ants really come through outlets or under dishwashers?
A: Yes. Kitchens offer warmth and moisture ants often nest behind walls, under floors, and inside electrical outlets.
Q: Should I treat now or wait until I see more?
A: Spring is the best time to act before colonies expand. Waiting makes infestations harder to control.
Q: Do businesses need professional monitoring?
A: Yes. Regular inspections prevent surprise infestations that can lead to health code violations.
Schedule Your Ant Inspection Today →
Also Serving
Bellevue, Sammamish, Redmond, Renton, Issaquah, Kent, Kirkland, and all of King County.
Final Call to Action
Don’t wait until ants take over your home or shut down your restaurant kitchen. AMPM Exterminators provides safe, targeted ant control with follow-up to ensure full colony elimination.
Call 206-571-7580
Request Your Ant Inspection Online →