They might be creepy, but spiders are the guardians of our natural surroundings
Some species of spiders are commonly found in homes across the U.S.
Spiders are attracted to your house for warmth and food.
There are humane ways to deal with spiders, but if an infestation persists, seek professional assistance.
Eek, spiders! Those curious eight-legged critters that terrorize many jumpy homeowners are actually the unsung heroes of our ecosystem. You can think of them as bug bouncers—actually eaters—keeping the insect party in check.
Wondering what types of spiders make themselves at home in your abode? We're donning our detective hats to unravel the mysteries of home-invading arachnids. So, let's spin this web of knowledge.
Several spider species set up camp in homes in the U.S. On average, they live for about a year and can lay as many as 4,000 eggs during a lifetime.
Arachnids typically waltz into houses to find shelter, prey, or suitable breeding grounds. While the specific types of spiders may vary depending on your geographical location, here are some of the most common.
These leggy creatures are widespread across all regions and are well-adapted to indoor environments. They are typically brown or grayish and have long, thin legs. House spiders construct messy, irregular webs in corners and crevices.
These spiders have long, delicate legs and are commonly found in basements, crawl spaces, and other dark, damp areas. They build intricate, tangled webs. Cellar spiders look similar to longlegs harvestmen—colloquially known as daddy-long-legs—which are not actually spiders.
Also known as tangle web spiders and comb-footed spiders, this family of species creates those classic Halloween-style cobwebs. They prefer privacy and build their webs in secluded spots like dark corners, ceilings, and attics.
These small, colorful spiders are known for their excellent vision and agility. While they prefer being outside near homes and gardens, they are often seen on walls, windows, and ceilings.
Primarily outdoor spiders, garden spiders—or orb-weavers—may occasionally find their way into homes. They are known for their large, wheel-shaped webs.
Sac spiders are typically pale yellow or light brown and create silk sacs as retreats during the daytime. They are found typically in the Midwest through the Northeast. They don't often venture indoors, but when they do, heads up: The yellow Sac spider delivers an excruciating bite. In some severe instances, the bite can cause anaphylactic shock.
Funnel weaver spiders construct funnel-shaped webs in grass, bushes, and outdoor areas. Some species may enter homes, particularly during colder months.
These spiders are nocturnal and are wickedly fast runners, so they are very adept at catching insects. They tend to hide in piles left around the house.
Hobo spiders are found inside and outside. They love to hide out in dark, humid spots. They resemble house spiders but have a reputation for biting, although recent research suggests their bites are not as dangerous as previously believed.
Spiders are drawn to homes for several reasons. Understanding these factors can help homeowners take steps to reduce spider infestations. Here is a list of what attracts spiders.
Spiders are carnivorous predators that feed on insects and other small arthropods. Homes often attract insects like flies, mosquitoes, ants, and moths. These insects can serve as a readily available food source for spiders, drawing them inside.
Spiders are ectothermic, relying on external heat sources to regulate their body temperature. Homes, especially during colder months, offer a warmer and more stable environment than outdoors.
Some spider species are attracted to moisture-rich areas, such as basements, crawl spaces, and bathrooms. Damp conditions provide a suitable habitat for these spiders and their prey.
Spiders are generally shy creatures and prefer dark, quiet, and undisturbed locations to build their webs and retreat during the day. Cluttered areas, closets, and storage spaces can offer such hiding spots.
Landscaping features like shrubs, bushes, and trees close to a house can provide spiders with easy access to the interior. Spiders may use plants as launching points to enter homes.
They may be creepy, but spiders eat other household pests like flies, roaches, fleas, and moths. If you only have a few eight-legged friends rather than an infestation, consider letting them hang out a while.
Cracks, gaps, and openings in windows, doors, walls, and foundations can serve as entry points for spiders. They can easily squeeze through tiny gaps, making it essential to seal these openings to prevent spider ingress.
Light can attract insects, which in turn attract spiders. Exterior lights near windows and doors can create a zone of attraction for spiders and their prey.
If a home has had previous spider infestations, residual pheromones left behind by spiders can attract more spiders in the future. Proper cleaning and pest control measures can help deter repeat infestations.
When searching for mates, some spider species are more active during specific seasons, such as the late summer and early fall. This can lead to an increase in spider activity in and around homes during these times.
Remember, not all spiders harm people or pets. Spiders, in general, play a crucial role in controlling insect populations, making it advisable not to kill these leggy predators.
However, if you have concerns about specific spider species or repeated infestations, it's advisable to seek professional spider control services for a thorough assessment and appropriate management. Spider extermination costs vary based on your location and the size of the infestation. On average, pest removal costs hover around $170.
To minimize spider infestations independently, consider employing a combination of these preventive measures for optimal effectiveness.
Keep the home clean and clutter-free, especially in storage areas.
Seal gaps and cracks in the home's exterior to prevent entry.
Install screens on doors and windows to keep insects out.
Eliminate standing water and fix plumbing issues to reduce moisture.
Keep outdoor lighting to a minimum, or use yellow bug lights to reduce insect attraction.
Clean and dust in hard-to-reach areas where spiders may build webs regularly.
Use commercial or DIY spider repellents—remember, they often have mixed results.
