Identifying Spider Webs Around Your House
Most of us have had the experience of walking into a spider web, only to feel the film-like stickiness clinging to our skin. It’s a dreadful feeling, to say the least—especially if you’re not a fan of spiders.
But did you know that there are different kinds of spider webs? And that some spider species build webs that are much more intricate than others? We’ll take a closer look at spider webs, how to identify them, and what you can do to get rid of them.
What Are Spider Webs Made Of?
A spider web is made up of sticky thread-like fibers made of protein that spiders produce from their own bodies. These fibers are called ‘silk.’
Different types of spiders build webs, depending on the species. Some spiders build webs just a few inches wide, while others can build webs that span several feet.
The size and shape of a spider web also depend on what the spider is trying to catch. For example, tiny spiders might build large, flat webs (called ‘sheet webs’) to catch flying insects. At the same time, larger spiders might build funnel-shaped webs (called ‘funnel webs’) to trap insects that enter the web.
How to Identify Different Types of Spider Webs
Now that we know a little bit more about spider webs let’s look at some of the most common types you might find around your house.
Sheet Webs: Sheet webs can often be seen hanging on trees and bushes. Small sheet web weaver spiders usually build them, and they’re designed to catch flying insects.
Funnel Webs: Funnel webs are made up of a series of interconnected threads that come together to form a ‘funnel’ shape. The funnel web spider builds these webs, which are used to catch crawling insects.
Orb Webs: Orb webs are round and from the Araneidae spider family (which includes the common garden spider). Orb webs are created to catch flying insects, and they’re usually found in gardens and fields.
Cobwebs: Cobwebs are messy and tangled and usually built in darker corners or other tight spaces. House spiders make them, and they catch insects that enter the web.
Triangle Webs: Triangle webs are, you guessed it, shaped like a triangle. Unlike most other types of spider webs, triangle webs are not sticky but fuzzier, which helps to trap small insects. The Hyptiotes Cavatus spider is the only known species to build these webs.
Now that you know how to identify different spider webs, you can have a better understanding of which kind of spider might be living in your house.
Of course, looking closely at the spider itself is the best way to identify a spider web. If you can’t get close to the arachnid to place it, you can always take a picture and show it to a Fox Pest Control professional. They will help determine what type of spider you’re dealing with and if spider control is necessary.
Where Are Spider Webs Commonly Found in Homes?
Now that you know how to identify a spider web, you might wonder where they’re usually found. Here are a few common places where you’ll find spider webs:
In trees and bushes: Many spiders build their webs in trees and bushes because there are plenty of insects for them to eat. If you see a large, flat web in a tree or bush, it’s probably a sheet web, but don’t worry, they are not dangerous to humans.
On porches and patios: Spiders also like to build their webs on porches and patios because insects often fly around these areas. If you see a web on your porch or patio, it’s probably an orb web. Orb weavers do not threaten humans, but their webs can be a nuisance.
Attics and basements: Spiders also like to build their webs in attics and basements because these areas are dark and secluded. If you see a cobweb in your attic or basement, it’s probably being built by a hobo spider, but don’t worry. They are harmless to humans.
These are just a few of the common areas where you’ll find spider webs. Knowing where to look for spider webs can help you to identify the type of spider that’s living in your house, and it can also help you to take steps to get rid of them.
How to Get Rid of Spider Webs
Identifying spider webs is the first step to getting rid of them. Once you know where they’re coming from, you might wonder how to get rid of the spiders and their webs.
Here are a few tips to keep spiders out of your house:
Keep your house clean and tidy: Spiders are attracted to clutter, so the less clutter you have in your home, the less likely it is that spiders will want to move in.
Vacuum regularly: This will help to remove any spider eggs or webs that might be lurking in your carpets or upholstery.
Check for leaks and moisture: Spiders like damp, dark places, so make sure to repair any leaks and keep your house well-ventilated.
Install screens on your windows and doors: This will help to keep spiders (and other pests) from getting into your house in the first place.
Contact Fox Pest Control: If you’re dealing with a spider problem that you can’t seem to solve on your own, call Fox Pest Control at (855) 953-1976. We’ll be here to assist you with your spider control needs.
These are just a few ways to prevent spiders from building webs in your home. Following these tips, you can keep your home spider-free all year.
But if you’re struggling to get rid of spiders in your home or if you’re just not comfortable dealing with them yourself, contact Fox Pest Control today. We’ll be happy to help you take care of your spider problem, so you don’t have to.
