Spiders commonly seek refuge and hunting grounds on porches, utilizing sheltered structures and abundant prey sources. These arachnids are drawn to undisturbed areas where they can safely construct webs to capture insects. Addressing this nuisance requires a comprehensive strategy that modifies the porch environment, eliminates their primary food source, and actively deters them from settling. This article provides actionable steps for homeowners to prevent and remove these eight-legged guests.
Modifying the Porch Environment
The first step in discouraging spiders involves making the porch structure an undesirable habitat. Spiders prefer secluded, cluttered spaces that offer secure anchor points for their webs and protection. Regularly and thoroughly removing existing webs and egg sacs is foundational, signaling to the spiders that the area is not stable for long-term residency.
Eliminate all debris, including leaves, stored firewood, and general clutter, as these items create dark, sheltered hiding spots. Clutter stored directly on the floor or against the walls provides spiders with surfaces to cling to and build nests. By keeping the perimeter clear and storing items in sealed, elevated bins, you significantly reduce the structural elements spiders need to thrive.
Addressing the physical integrity of the structure is also an effective preventative measure. Inspect and seal any cracks, gaps, or small openings in the porch railings, soffits, and the foundation itself using caulk or weatherstripping. These small crevices serve as protected entry points and daytime hiding spots for many spider species.
Spiders are also attracted to sources of moisture, which indicates the presence of other small invertebrates. Fix leaky hoses, spigots, or any areas where standing water tends to accumulate near the porch. Reducing dampness makes the environment less appealing for spiders and the insects they hunt, eliminating a necessary component of their ideal habitat.
Disrupting the Spider Food Source
Spiders are drawn to porches because of the reliable food source provided by insects that congregate near outdoor lighting. Moths, gnats, and other flying insects are attracted to certain light wavelengths, and the spiders simply follow their prey. Managing the light source is an indirect yet effective method of population control.
Standard incandescent bulbs and bright white or blue-toned LED lights emit high levels of ultraviolet (UV) light, which is attractive to most nocturnal insects. Switching these out for alternatives that emit light in the yellow or orange spectrum can dramatically reduce the insect population. Yellow “bug lights” or low-Kelvin warm-toned LED bulbs (2700K to 3000K) are less visible to flying insects.
Sodium vapor lamps are another option that produces a yellowish-orange light with less insect attraction compared to traditional white lights. Consider repositioning any exterior floodlights or spotlights away from the immediate porch structure and into the yard. Moving the light source directs the insects away from the porch, forcing spiders to relocate their hunting webs elsewhere.
Installing motion-activated lighting is a practical solution that reduces the total time the light is on, minimizing the window of opportunity for insects to gather. A porch that is only illuminated when someone is actively present will be less appealing to spiders looking to establish a permanent, food-rich web.
Applying Physical and Natural Repellents
Once the porch is clean and the food source is managed, the application of non-toxic repellents can actively deter spiders from the treated surfaces. Spiders sense their environment largely through their legs, making them sensitive to strong odors and abrasive textures.
Natural essential oils, particularly peppermint, tea tree, and citrus oils, are potent deterrents because their strong aromas overwhelm a spider’s sensory organs. A simple repellent spray can be created by mixing about 10-15 drops of oil per cup of water and applying it to porch corners, crevices, and door frames. You can also soak cotton balls with these oils and strategically place them in dark, undisturbed areas.
Another effective natural solution is a diluted white vinegar spray, typically a 50/50 mixture with water. Spraying this solution creates an environment that spiders find unpleasant. These natural repellents should be reapplied every few days or after heavy rain to maintain their potency.
For a physical barrier, food-grade diatomaceous earth (DE) can be applied to cracks and along the foundation perimeter. DE is a fine powder composed of fossilized diatoms whose microscopic edges scratch the spider’s exoskeleton, causing dehydration. It must be applied as a very light, thin dusting to ensure the arachnids walk through it.
When applying DE, use a powder duster and wear a mask to avoid inhaling the fine particles. This is especially important when applying DE in areas accessible to pets or children.