Unlike most other pests, having spiders on your property is not necessarily cause for alarm: they play an important role in the local ecosystem by preying on other insects, and most are completely harmless to humans. There are exceptions, of course, including the black widow and brown recluse spider, but you are not likely to come across these species. Nonetheless, if spiders in your home or business location make you uncomfortable, Seitz Bros. technicians can help you with spider control.

Common Spider Species in PA

When it comes to spider control, it helps to be able to identify the species that you are most likely to see in Pennsylvania. The common house spider is relatively small, no more than one inch in length, and brown or tan in color, while the cellar spider (also commonly known as “daddy longlegs”) is pale white with a thin body and long, delicate legs. Neither of these varieties pose a threat; in fact, cellar spiders often eat other spiders that do have the potential to cause harm with their poisonous bites.

Other species that you are likely to see include bold and dimorphic jumping spiders, which jump rather than spinning webs. Finally, nocturnal hunting spiders, which are larger and more aggressive than most others and do pose a potential threat, include the wolf spider and barn funnel weaver.

All About Spider Infestations

Spiders will normally enter your home or business facility because they are seeking out food and shelter. As with other pests, a good way to keep them out is to seal any cracks or crevices in your building’s foundation, since they can squeeze through even the smallest holes. Keep an eye out for cobwebs, as well, since dusting and vacuuming them regularly is an effective way to deter spiders from your home. They can also hitchhike in on clothing, bags, and even your pets, so you may wish to consider doing a quick check of your clothing and give pets a once-over when returning indoors. Your basement is one of the most likely places that you may spot one, since they are attracted to the darkness, potential damp conditions and the quiet.

It is important to note that, if you see spiders in outdoor areas of your property, it is almost always best to let them be. By eating other insects, they help to keep potentially harmful pests—which do have the potential to cause damage to your home—at bay. Furthermore, in outdoor areas, it is extremely unlikely for a spider to pose any danger to you, your family or your clients or customers.

If you notice that you have contracted an unusual, swollen bite, it is possible that a spider was the culprit. Different people have different reactions to spider bites, and the same bite may produce no symptoms at all in one individual while having a significant effect on the well-being of another. Talk to your doctor about any symptoms, and call a spider control professional as soon as possible if there is any reason to suspect that there may be a threat to your health from future bites.

How Seitz Bros. Can Help

The expert technicians at Seitz Bros. have helped to get rid of all sorts of different pests, including spiders, in homes and commercial properties, throughout Pennsylvania for decades. If you notice that a spider infestation has become a problem for your home or business, it is best to call a professional to deal with the situation rather than attempting to eliminate an infestation on your own.

When you call Seitz Bros., one of our technicians will visit your home or business at a time that works for your schedule, perform a thorough inspection and issue a free estimate. We are able to develop customized plans based on the specifics of your unique situation. Infestations only get worse over time if left untreated, so it is best to contact us as soon as you notice any sign of unwanted pests in your home.