As autumn arrives, spiders increasingly seek shelter, food and mates inside homes, and one often-overlooked area – window frames – can be a major entry or attraction point. Experts at Fluid Glass say keeping this part of the property clean and tidy could prove to be the solution.
Why spiders enter homes in autumn
Spiders are drawn to homes and outbuildings as temperatures fall and chillier weather sets in, seeking warmth, protection from harsh conditions, food and potential mates. This seasonal migration can cause stress for those with arachnophobia.
Spiders can enter properties through numerous points and do not need particularly large gaps. Fluid Glass experts outline that they often find their way indoors via air bricks, chimneys, pipe openings, vents, spaces under doorways and fractures in masonry.
Window frames as a spider haven
A spokesperson from Fluid Glass explained: "Older properties can be particularly vulnerable because seals around doors and windows naturally deteriorate over time."
"Before autumn arrives, it's worth walking around the outside of your property and looking for obvious entry points that could be sealed with filler, fresh sealant or draught-proofing. House spiders are known to enter through open windows, chimneys and gaps beneath doors."
Window frames are a particular haven because they "often collect dead insects, dust and old cobwebs, all of which can encourage spiders to return to the same spot." Fluid Glass experts suggest "cleaning the frames, tracks and surrounding seals" to remove "established webs" and spot any damaged seals that need repairing. Maintaining a regular window cleaning schedule could prove crucial in deterring unwanted eight-legged visitors.
Additional ways to stop spiders
Old wives' tales about placing conkers in room corners are not backed by evidence. Instead, seal potential entry points by caulking gaps around skirting boards, window and door frames, pipes and vents, fitting door sweeps and repairing damaged window screens.
Make the house less appealing by knocking down webs and egg sacs as soon as spotted, vacuuming corners and edges, and reducing clutter like cardboard boxes and clothes piles – ideally using sealed plastic storage. Since spiders go where insects are, keep food sealed, bins closed and crumbs cleared up, fix leaks and deal with flies or gnats.
Cut insect attraction by using warm or amber outdoor bulbs and keeping windows and doors shut when lights are on, and by tidying outside – trimming vegetation and moving wood piles, compost bins and stored items away from walls. If using deterrents like diluted peppermint oil or vinegar, use them carefully and spot-test surfaces, and use sticky traps in quiet corners to identify hotspots.
