A PEST expert has shared the little-known hacks for keeping spiders out of your home.
Among his tips is a specific type of light that can be used outdoors without attracting a legion of insects.
Ryan Fowley is a pest removal expert and COO at Excel Pest Services, which operates in Florida and New Jersey.
Speaking to The U.S. Sun, he shared several must-try tricks for deterring pests.
DETER SPIDERS
Fowley said there are countless “unorthodox” methods online for banishing spiders.
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However, getting rid of their food sources is the most effective.
“As spiders prey on other insects, if you're able to get rid of other pests in your home then spiders are far less likely to appear,” he said.
“The best way of doing this is by sealing windows and doors with weather stripping, and repairing any cracked glass or screens so that insects can't get through.
“You should also make sure to regularly vacuum and dust corners of your home where insects might nest, or where they might be feeding on food scraps.”
He revealed some scents can also deter spiders from entering your home.
“You might also want to consider using essential oils like peppermint, lavender, or tea tree around entrance points like windows and doors, as spiders dislike the scent and may be deterred by them,” he said.
Homeowners may be attracting the creatures unknowingly as they spend time in their backyard.
“I would advise against using outdoor lighting as much as possible if you're trying to repel insects as they are attracted by these lights," Fowley said.
“If you must use outdoor lights, opt for yellow sodium vapor lighting if possible as it attracts fewer insects."
KEEP AWAY ANTS
Fowley revealed carpenter ants are attracted to moisture and wood decay around the home.
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He advised being mindful of any areas where infestations may occur.
“Ensure that any leaks in roofs, pipes, and windows are fixed promptly and that there is proper ventilation in crawl spaces, attics, and basements in order to reduce humidity levels,” he said.
Seal any cracks and crevices around the foundation, windows, and doors to block entry points to your home.
Ryan Fowley
“Outside your home, trim tree branches away to prevent ants from using them as bridges to enter through small wall spaces, and carry out consistent yard maintenance like clearing away debris, to minimize ant nesting.
“Lastly, regularly inspect for and replace any rotting wood frames or siding, and seal any cracks and crevices around the foundation, windows, and doors to block entry points to your home.”
The advice comes after pest control expert Hudson Lambert shared with The U.S. Sun the three most common spiders.
He said money spiders only grow to 5mm, while cellar spiders grow to 8mm in length, and giant house spiders grow to 15mm.
He revealed the crawlers lay their eggs on their webs and could have 300 spiderlings inside.
