How to Pest-Proof Your Attic Against Cluster Flies

 

Cluster flies are common attic pests that look like large houseflies. In fall and early winter, they search for warm, quiet places like attics to "hibernate" for the cold months. To pest-proof your attic and keep cluster flies out, you must seal their entry points, manage the attic environment, and use prevention and control methods throughout the year. Here’s how you can effectively keep them away.

 

Understand Cluster Flies: Why They Enter Attics

 

Cluster flies gather ("cluster") in large numbers, especially in upper parts of homes. They don't breed indoors or spread diseases to humans, but they are annoying, make buzzing noises, leave "fly spots" (tiny dark droppings), and can suddenly appear in huge groups on sunny winter or spring days when they try to get out.

They get into attics for protection from the cold through even the tiniest cracks, crevices, and gaps.

 

Seal Entry Points: What and Where to Look

 

Closing off entry points is the most critical step in pest-proofing. Inspect your entire attic and house exterior, especially on the sunny (south/west) sides, where flies typically try to enter.

• Gaps in Siding & Fascia Boards: Search for loose boards, cracks, or missing caulk where walls meet the roof or where materials overlap.
• Soffits & Roof Vents: Check eaves, soffit (the underside of the roof overhang), and attic vent screens for holes or tears. Replace or repair damaged screens.
• Cracks Around Windows & Doors: Examine attic windows, frames, and weather stripping. Use exterior-grade caulk to seal minor gaps or cracks.
• Openings Around Pipes & Wires: Fill gaps around pipes, cables, satellite wires, or any utility lines entering your attic or roof.
• Attic Exhaust Fans: Make sure fans have tight-fitting covers or fine-mesh insect screens.

Use exterior-grade silicone or polyurethane caulk for sealing small cracks. For larger holes, use expanding spray foam and, if needed, metal mesh (called hardware cloth) to cover larger gaps, then seal around the edges.

 

Install & Maintain Effective Screens

 

• Install fine metal screens (18 mesh or finer) behind attic vents, over soffit holes, and across any louvered vents. Make sure screens are tightly attached so cluster flies cannot crawl under or around them.
• Check all window screens for tears, and replace or patch as needed. Flies can squeeze through very small holes.

 

Weatherproof & Insulate to Make Your Attic Less Inviting

 

• Weatherproof the attic by repairing any leaks, gaps, warped wood, or damaged flashing (thin pieces of metal installed to keep water out).
• Make sure attic insulation is dry and in good condition. A well-sealed and insulated attic is less attractive because cluster flies prefer temperature changes and drafts that signal an entry point.

 

Reduce Outdoor Attractants Around the House

 

• Cluster flies breed outdoors in the soil, laying eggs on earthworms. You can’t remove earthworms, but you can make your home less attractive:
• Trim bushes and trees away from the roof and eaves. Flies use branches as bridges to higher entry points.
• Keep lawns mowed and avoid accumulating clippings close to the house foundation.

 

Use Preventive Insecticide Barriers (If Needed)

 

• In late summer or early fall, before flies start seeking shelter, use an approved "barrier insecticide" spray. Spray around eaves, attic vents, window frames, siding seams, and under the overhangs, focusing on the south and west sides.
• Choose a product labeled for cluster flies and follow instructions carefully. Reapply as directed and be cautious for pets and children.
• Inside the attic, avoid heavy sprays (they don’t prevent entry) but you can use sticky strips or light traps to catch any that get in.

 

Regularly Inspect Attic and Remove Existing Flies

 

• During fall and winter, check the attic monthly for sudden fly clusters. Quickly vacuum up any flies you see – don't crush them, as they leave stains and attract other pests.
• Use a shop-vac with a bag (empty immediately) or carefully sweep and bag any dead flies.
• Fix any new gaps or damages as soon as discovered.

 

Summary of Key Actions for Effective, Lasting Pest-Proofing

 

• Inspect and seal every possible exterior crack, gap, vent, or opening into your attic—especially where different building materials meet.
• Install and maintain metal mesh screens over all vents and use weatherproof caulk around windows, siding joints, and entry points for pipes/wires.
• Apply outdoor barrier insecticide in late summer/fall for extra protection before fly season peaks.
• Keep the attic clean, dry, and regularly inspected. Immediately remove any flies that get in with a vacuum, not by crushing.
• Repeat inspections, sealing, and prevention every year—most cluster fly problems return in fall if gaps reopen.

By thoroughly sealing your attic, maintaining screens, weatherproofing, and using preventive methods at the right time of year, you’ll block cluster flies from using your attic as their winter hideout and keep your home fly-free.