Arachnid Control

Spider Control

Eight-legged arachnids that build webs and hunt insects throughout Chicagoland homes, including dangerous species that require professional attention.

Size Range

1/8 inch to 1.5 inches

Colors

Brown, black, gray, yellow

Peak Activity

Fall & Spring

Danger Level

Low to High (species dependent)

Portrait of Aelurillus v-insignitus jumping spider, close up picture of jumping spider
50+
Species in IL

Spider Species & Identification

Learn to identify common and dangerous spider species found in Chicagoland homes.

Common House Spiders

  • American House Spider: Small, brownish
  • Cellar Spider: Long, thin legs
  • Wolf Spider: Large, hairy, ground-dwelling
  • Jumping Spider: Compact, excellent vision
  • Generally harmless to humans

Dangerous Species

  • Black Widow: Shiny black, red hourglass
  • Brown Recluse: Brown with violin marking
  • Bites can cause serious medical issues
  • Seek immediate medical attention if bitten
  • Professional removal recommended

Web Patterns

  • Orb Webs: Classic circular patterns
  • Cobwebs: Irregular, messy patterns
  • Sheet Webs: Flat, horizontal surfaces
  • Funnel Webs: Cone-shaped retreats
  • Web location indicates spider behavior

Spider Prevention

Interior Prevention

  • • Regular vacuuming of corners and crevices
  • • Remove webs immediately when found
  • • Reduce clutter in basements and closets
  • • Seal cracks around windows and doors

Exterior Prevention

  • • Keep vegetation trimmed away from house
  • • Remove woodpiles and debris near foundation
  • • Install door sweeps and window screens
  • • Use yellow sodium vapor lights outside
A dark female and a large male angle spider (Eratigena) in a basement

Beneficial Role: Most spiders are actually beneficial, eating many insects including mosquitoes, flies, and other pests. Control is typically only needed when populations become excessive.

Where Spiders Hide

Knowing where spiders like to hide helps with both prevention and treatment

Basements & Crawl Spaces

Dark, undisturbed areas with consistent moisture

Storage Areas

Boxes, closets, and rarely disturbed spaces

Window Wells & Gardens

Outdoor areas near the home's foundation

Behind Furniture

Quiet corners and undisturbed areas indoors

Professional Spider Control

Comprehensive spider management for Chicagoland properties, focusing on both treatment and prevention of dangerous species.

Species Identification

Proper identification of dangerous vs. beneficial species

Targeted Treatment

Strategic web removal and residual treatments

Perimeter Protection

Barrier treatments to prevent spider entry