Wasps nesting in house siding can be a nuisance for homeowners. These flying insects are intimidating, and their stings can be painful and dangerous for those with allergies. Addressing a wasp infestation quickly and effectively helps maintain a safe and comfortable home environment. This guide will walk you through identifying, treating, and preventing wasp infestations in house siding.
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This site receives compensation from the companies featured in this listing, which may impact where and how products appear. This listing doesn’t feature all companies, products, or offers that may be available.
Wasp Behavior and Nesting Habits
Wasps are most active during warm months, typically from late spring through early fall. During this time, they build nests, forage for food, and reproduce.
Wasps are attracted to gaps and crevices in house siding because these areas provide shelter and protection for their nests. Different species of wasps have varying nesting habits, but many are drawn to the following areas:
- Gaps between siding panels
- Cracks or holes in exterior walls
- Loose or warped siding sections
- Areas around windows and door frames
- Underneath eaves and overhangs
Common Wasp Species Found in House Siding
Different types of wasps may require specific control methods. Properly identifying the wasp species helps you determine the most effective treatment approach. Observe the wasps’ appearance, behavior, and nest structure to identify the species.
Here are some common wasp species that may nest in house siding:
- Yellow jackets and hornets: These tend to be more aggressive and build larger, enclosed nests.
- Paper wasps: This species constructs open-comb nests and stings when the nest is disturbed.
- Mud daubers: This non-aggressive wasp creates small, tubular mud structures.
5 Steps To Get Rid of Wasps in House Siding
Follow these steps to safely and effectively eliminate wasps from house siding:
1. Locate and Assess the Wasp Nest
Carefully inspect the exterior of the home to locate the wasp nest. Look for areas with increased wasp activity, such as gaps in siding or small openings. Once you find the nest, assess its size, location, and the level of wasp activity.
2. Prepare Necessary Materials and Safety Equipment
Essential tools and protective gear include:
- Protective clothing (long sleeves, pants, and closed-toe shoes)
- Bee-keeping protective gloves
- Safety goggles
- Face mask or bee veil
- Wasp spray or insecticide dust
- Scraper or removal tool
- Garbage bag for nest disposal
- For maximum protection, consider investing in a full beekeeping suit, especially when dealing with large or aggressive colonies.
3. Apply Wasp Control Products
Choose an appropriate wasp control product based on the species and nest location. Aerosol sprays are effective for quick knockdown and are best for visible nests. If the nest is hidden or hard to reach, opt for insecticide dust. For long-lasting control, apply residual liquid insecticides to surfaces around the nest.
Apply the chosen product generously according to the manufacturer’s instructions, preferably at night when wasps are less active.
The main advantage of anti-wasp sprays is they are intuitive to use. Good sprays kill wasps on contact and after insects return to the sprayed area.
These are our product recommendations for:
- Wasp killer spray: Ortho Home Defense 16 oz.
- Large packs of hornets: Black Flag Foaming Wasp & Hornet Killer Aerosol
- Hard-to-reach areas: Gotcha Aerosol Spray Can Extension Adapter with expendable telescopic pole
Anti-wasp dust is a highly effective product, especially for dealing with wasp nests in hard-to-reach areas of your house or when sprays fail you. High-quality dust is effective for up to 8 months. Buy a dust dispenser to spread the dust.
Here are our picks:
- Hand-held dust dispenser: Dr. Killigan’s Insect Buster
- Anti-wasp dust: Bayer Tempo 1% Dust (1.25 lbs)
Traps are effective when you can’t locate the wasp nest on your property and aren’t sure where they’re coming from.
Our top pick for wasp traps is RESCUE! TrapStik for Wasps.
4. Remove the Nest and Clean the Area
After treating the nest, wait at least 24 hours to ensure all wasps have been eliminated. Then, carefully remove the nest using a scraper or appropriate tool. Place the nest in a sealed garbage bag for disposal. Clean the area where the nest was to remove any remaining pheromones that might attract new wasps.
5. Implement Preventive Measures
To discourage future wasp infestations, take the following preventive steps:
- Seal gaps and cracks in the siding.
- Repair or replace damaged siding.
- Keep food and sugary drinks covered when outdoors.
- Maintain a tidy yard, removing fallen fruit and limiting open garbage.
- Consider using wasp-deterrent plants or essential oils around the home.
When To Call a Professional Exterminator
While you can handle most wasp infestations yourself, certain situations may require professional assistance. Contact a pest control expert if the nest is large or difficult to access or if there are multiple nests on the property.
You should also seek professional help if the wasps exhibit exceptionally aggressive behavior. If someone in your household has allergies or other health concerns that wasp encounters could exacerbate, it’s safer to rely on expert intervention. Lastly, if previous do-it-yourself attempts to address the infestation were unsuccessful, hire a professional pest control specialist to resolve the issue.
The tool below helps you get pest control estimates from local professionals:
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Safety Considerations and First Aid
Safety should always be the top priority when dealing with wasps. Avoid approaching or disturbing the nest during daytime hours. Wear appropriate protective gear and plan a clear escape route before beginning treatment. Keep children and pets away from the area during and after treatment.
In case of a wasp sting, remove the stinger if present. Then, clean the area with soap and water and apply a cold compress to reduce swelling. Take an antihistamine to alleviate itching and swelling. Seek medical attention if signs of an allergic reaction occur.
Environmental Considerations
When addressing wasp infestations, consider the environmental impact of pest control methods. While wasps can be a nuisance, they also play a role in the ecosystem as pollinators and natural pest controllers.
You can use targeted treatments rather than broad-spectrum pesticides as a more eco-friendly alternative or opt for physical removal methods when possible. Other environmentally friendly choices include picking products with lower environmental impact and implementing preventive measures to discourage future infestations.
