Top Spider Prevention Tips

In our Massachusetts and Connecticut service area, we don't see many poisonous spiders. By poisonous, we mean spiders that have a venom that can cause health issues for humans. While all spiders have venom, only a select few are considered dangerous to humans. You've probably heard their names: the black widow, the brown recluse, and the yellow sac spider. But it is far too cold here in New England for these spiders to live and thrive. When they appear, it is usually because they were transported here. Poisonous spiders love to hide in boxes. So, these spider prevention tips will focus mostly on the gross, but decidedly non-toxic, spiders that invade our Massachusetts and Connecticut homes--you know, the ones that leave a red, itchy welt on your skin while you're sleeping.

Step 1: Don't Attract Spiders

Spider prevention begins in your yard. If you have a yard that is interesting to spiders, they will be happy to come in, and they will be happy to stay. Your goal should be to make your yard as boring as possible. Here are some ideas: 

• When your trash is in sealed trash cans, you're going to have fewer flies. And, since spiders eat flying insects, you will naturally have fewer spiders.

• Flies are attracted to light. If you have white exterior lighting, you may want to consider replacing those white bulbs with insect-resistant yellow light bulbs. Or, simply keep them turned off at night.

• Flies are drawn to light that comes out your windows. If you keep your curtains drawn at night, you'll make your home less interesting to flies and all of those spiders that like to eat them.

• A yard that is trimmed neatly will naturally resist spiders. All of those spiders love weeds, bushes, shrubs, and wild foliage.

• Spiders aren't just looking for a meal. Those arachnids also need a drink. If you have a leaky spigot or an obstructed gutter system that allows water to run down the side of your home and pool near your foundation, spiders will take notice. By addressing leaks and moisture issues, you'll also be addressing spider populations.

• Spiders love plants. Probably because bugs love plants and, as mentioned above, bugs are food for spiders. If you have a garden, flower beds, or other vegetation, you're going to have spiders. That's just how it is. But you can discourage spiders from making themselves at home by removing spider webs when you see them.

Step 2: Don't Let Them In 

Once you've addressed attractants, it is time to take a look at your exterior walls. If spiders do come in close to your home, you don't want them to find a way in. 

• Look for cracks, gaps, and holes in your exterior walls. Examine closely around pipes, utility boxes, air conditioning units, and other objects. If you find an entry point, seal it up. A caulking gun is a great solution if you don't have the money to do a proper repair.

• Spiders get in through screens and window panes. Make sure all of your screens are in good condition. If you can't afford to get your screens replaced, try patching them up. There are videos on Youtube that will help you do repairs quickly and easily, on the cheap.

• Spiders can squeeze under doors and squeeze through weather stripping. Make sure your door sweeps and weather stripping do not have any gaps.

• Sometimes, those spiders will ride past your sealed walls. If you bring a box in from an external storage shed, or your garage, make sure to give it a good check for spiders. They can also come into a home on firewood, Christmas trees, and other wood products that were outside. Make sure you give these a good shake, to dislodge any egg sacks. 

Step 3: Bolster Your Defenses 

For complete protection from spiders and other invasive pests, it is often necessary to use limited and targeted EPA-approved pest control products. Bugs are tiny and resourceful. If you need assistance with this, the pest specialists here at American Pest Solutions can help. Keeping homes and businesses free of bugs is what we do. In fact, we've been doing it since 1913. When you need a combination of cutting-edge pest control and decades of experience, you can trust American Pest Solutions to deliver. Contact us by phone or connect with us right here on our web page. We're looking forward to serving you.