Spiders are a common sight in Elgin homes. Seeing one in the corner of a room might be a daily moment for some people. But it can be a cause for concern for others, especially if they are not familiar with the harmful and harmless species. Most spiders in Illinois are not dangerous, but a few deserve more attention than others. It is important to learn about the types of spiders to look out for, so you can stay calm and take action when needed. This also allows you to call an Elgin pest control company to help you deal with a possible spider problem.
Common House Spiders in Elgin
Most of the spiders that show up inside Elgin homes are harmless. These include:
- American House Spider. These spiders are small and brown with long legs. They are often found in corners and closets. They build messy webs and usually stay hidden.
- Cellar Spider. These species have tiny bodies and very long, thin legs. They often gather in basements or dark corners.
- Jumping Spider. These compact spiders have thick legs and big eyes. They are curious and can be seen moving quickly across walls or windows.
These spiders might not be pretty to look at, but they help control insect populations in your home. They rarely bite and usually keep to themselves.
When to Be More Cautious
The majority of spiders in Elgin are not a threat, but homeowners should know that the Brown Recluse and the Black Widow spiders are harmful. These spiders are rare, but their bites can be dangerous and should be taken seriously.
- Brown recluse spider. Brown Recluse spiders are small, usually about the size of a quarter. They are light to medium brown and often have a violin-shaped marking on their back. These spiders like quiet and dark areas, so they can be found in storage spaces, attics, basements, or behind furniture. Their bites are not usually fatal, but they can cause serious skin damage and should be treated by a doctor right away.
- Black widow spider. The Black Widow has a shiny black body and a red hourglass marking on the underside of its abdomen. They prefer undisturbed areas like sheds, garages, woodpiles, or crawl spaces. They have venomous bites, which can cause muscle cramps, nausea, and pain. The bites are rarely deadly, but they can be serious, especially for children or older adults.
Spiders Thrive in Elgin’s Changing Seasons
Elgin often has warm and humid summers and cold and snowy winters. This environment causes spiders to move indoors as temperatures drop or when food sources become scarce. You might notice more spider activity in the fall as they seek shelter for the winter months. That is why routine inspections are helpful. Spiders often enter through small cracks, gaps in windows, or open doors.
Seeking Help from Local Experts
Homeowners might want to turn to a trusted pest control company when spider problems go beyond the occasional web in the corner. Pointe Pest Control, owned by Jacob Borg, offers long-term pest solutions. Their technicians identify hiding spots, seal entry points, and help prevent future infestations. Pointe Pest Control takes a local approach, so they understand the unique pest pressures in Elgin’s neighborhoods.
How to Reduce Spiders in Your Home
There are several simple things you can do to make your home less inviting to spiders. Spiders love undisturbed spaces, so keep storage areas clean and clutter-free. Also, vacuum regularly, especially in corners, under furniture, and in basements. Seal cracks and gaps around windows, doors, and baseboards, as these can be entry points for spiders. Use screens on windows and make sure they are in good shape. Keeping outdoor lights off when not needed can help control spiders. Light attracts insects, which also attract spiders.
