Spiders can quietly invade homes in St. Louis, hiding in undisturbed places. While many spiders are harmless and helpful in controlling other bugs, a serious infestation can be both uncomfortable and potentially dangerous. This is especially the case if venomous spiders are involved.
When homeowners find more than just one spider or two, they should contact an expert in pest control in St. Louis. Pest exterminators in St. Louis follow a step-by-step process to safely and effectively handle spider infestations.
Inspection and Identification
Pest professionals carefully inspect areas where spiders are often found. These areas can include attics, crawlspaces, garages, and basements. Also, some spiders can be found behind furniture and appliances. Others keep out of sight by hiding in closets, storage areas, and window frames.
During this inspection, exterminators identify the types of spiders present. This is important because treatment methods can vary depending on the species. For example, a common house spider doesn’t require the same approach as a venomous brown recluse or black widow. Knowing where spiders are hiding and what species are present allows the exterminator to come up with a targeted plan.
Removing Clutter and Webs
Clutter gives spiders plenty of places to hide and build webs. Pest control professionals often recommend that homeowners remove stored items from affected areas. This helps reduce hiding spots and makes it easier for treatments to reach problem areas.
As part of the service, exterminators will usually knock down existing webs, egg sacs, and live spiders. This helps cut down the population right away and discourages other spiders from settling in the same area.
Sealing Entry Points
Spiders often enter homes through tiny cracks, broken screens, and poorly sealed doors or windows. Exterminators look for these gaps during the inspection and may recommend sealing them to prevent more spiders from getting in.
Common entry points include gaps around pipes and vents and cracks in the foundation or siding. Also, spiders can enter your home through loose weather stripping on doors and windows. Sealing these areas is an important part of long-term spider control. Without entry points, it becomes harder for new spiders to invade.
Targeted Treatment Applications
Once the home is prepared, exterminators apply safe and effective treatments. These may include the following:
- Residual insecticides. These products are sprayed along baseboards, behind appliances, and in corners where spiders hide.
- Dusts and powders. Exterminators place these items in wall voids, attics, and other undisturbed spaces.
- Perimeter treatments. These are applied around the exterior foundation to create a barrier.
These treatments kill spiders on contact and prevent new ones from entering. Professionals use products that are strong against pests but safe for people and pets. Some exterminators may also use traps to monitor spider activity after treatment. Sticky traps can help track where spiders are most active and whether the infestation has been controlled.
Addressing Other Insects
Spiders often enter homes to hunt other insects. If your home has an existing bug problem, spiders will follow. That’s why pest control experts also check for other insects during a spider service. By controlling the spider’s food source, professionals reduce the reason for spiders to stay in the home.
Follow-Up and Prevention
Exterminators typically schedule a follow-up visit to recheck problem areas and reapply treatments if needed. Also, this visit makes sure the issue is resolved. They will also share tips to help prevent future spider problems.
For St. Louis homeowners, dealing with spiders can be stressful and scary. Pointe Pest Control offers expert help with serious spider infestations. They can spot affected areas and identify spider species. They can create a customized plan to eliminate them for good.
