6 Ways to Spider-Proof Your Garage, Experts Say
Follow this step-by-step guide to getting a spider-free space.
Keeping pests out of the garage is an important line of defense in keeping them out of your home. Spiders in particular are known to build their webs in the dark and musty corners of garages, later laying their eggs in close proximity to your living space. The good news? There are several simple ways to spider-proof your garage, pest control and home cleaning experts say. Read on to find out how to protect your space against invading arachnids, so you can rest easy knowing they're nowhere near.
RELATED: 9 Cleaning Habits That Attract Spiders.
1
Install weather stripping, and fill gaps and cracks.
To prevent spiders from coming inside, you should first plan on installing weather stripping on doors and windows—including those that lead to interior spaces.
"If you can see light around your door when it is closed, spiders can get inside," says Allison McLain, an expert from Pointe Pest Control. "Baby spiders are tiny. They can fit through very small gaps. Make certain your weather stripping is doing its job."
Additionally, Hashi Mohamed, president of the Minneapolis-based home cleaning company Ivy Cleans, says that you should also consider other possible entry points. He recommends inspecting your garage for cracks, gaps, and holes in doors, windows, walls, and floors.
RELATED: 8 Foods That Are Attracting Mice Inside Your Home.
2
Replace old window screens.
Windows can make your garage brighter and increase ventilation, but they come with one major downside: By opening them up, you risk letting pests and insects in.
"There is nothing wrong with opening your window to let in a cool breeze, just make sure to check your window screens," says McLain. In particular, she recommends looking closely for gaps or damage. If there are holes or weak points, get your screens replaced, she suggests.
RELATED: "Very Large" New Spider Species Discovered—Here's Where There May Be Hiding.
3
Trim back trees, bushes, and other greenery.
Next, you'll want to check the vegetation in your yard to find any bushes or trees that touch your home. McLain recommends trimming them back, especially if they're near doors, windows, or other openings.
"When vegetation is up against your home, it creates an insect habitat next to the walls of your home," she explains.
RELATED: 7 Places Black Widows Spiders Are Hiding in Your Home.
4
Eliminate their food source.
You can also limit a spider's food sources by repelling or eliminating other pests. "Keep your garage free of insects by using bug zappers, flypaper, or insect traps. When there's no prey, spiders are less likely to hang around," says Mohamed.
He also recommends using natural repellents to keep insects away. "Sprinkle natural spider repellents like diatomaceous earth, peppermint oil, or vinegar around the garage perimeter. These substances deter spiders without harming them or the environment," he notes.
Finally, you may be able to rid your garage of other insects by eliminating their food sources. "Don't store pet, wild bird, or animal food in the garage unless in an airtight container," says Bob Gilbert, a board-certified entomologist with Blue Sky Pest Control. "This will deny these items to pests like crickets, cockroaches, beetles, and earwigs which spiders will feed on."
RELATED: 6 Items You Should Never Store in Your Garage.
5
Change your lighting.
Sean Thomas, editor-in-chief of Conquer Critters, warns that your lighting may also be attracting spiders to your garage. "Spiders are drawn to outdoor lighting, which attracts the insects they eat. Consider switching to yellow or sodium vapor bulbs that are less attractive to insects, consequently reducing spider activity near doors," he tells Best Life.
RELATED: 5 Ways to Snake-Proof Your Garage, According to Experts.
6
Be sure to sweep and vacuum.
You may already sweep or vacuum your garage with some regularity, but the experts say you should probably do it more often and with an eye for pests. "Clean the garage regularly to remove spider webs, egg sacs, and any insects that might attract them," says Thomas.
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