Flies constantly circling your patio can quickly turn your outdoor oasis into a nightmare. Dealing with those persistent swarms landing on food, furniture, and family is enough to drive anyone inside. But you don’t have to surrender your patio to these pesky insects! In this guide, you’ll discover 11 highly effective DIY remedies for getting rid of lingering patio flies once and for all. From finding and eliminating breeding grounds to trapping, zapping, and repelling flies naturally, you’ll learn actionable tips to make your patio fly-free again.

Table of Contents

How To Get Rid Of Circling Flies On Patio In 11 Effective Ways

Understanding Why Flies Circle on Patios

Summertime brings warm weather, sunny days, and unfortunately, pesky flies. It’s common to see flies buzzing around patios, circling endlessly as they search for food or breeding grounds. While annoying, it’s important to understand what attracts flies to your patio and why they tend to circle the area persistently.

Common Causes of Fly Infestations on Patios

There are a few key reasons that flies swarm patios:

Trash cans – Flies feed on decaying organic matter. Any trash cans or compost bins sitting near your patio are prime fly buffets.
Pet waste – Animal feces, especially from dogs and cats, is a huge fly attractant. Be sure to promptly clean up any pet waste.
Standing water – Flies need moisture to breed. Sources like puddle, birdbaths, fountain pumps, or leaky spigots allow flies to lay eggs.
Proximity to home – Since patios are located right next to homes, flies can easily access food, water and breeding grounds.
Warm surfaces – The warm, sunny surfaces of patios appeal to flies, especially concrete or stone patios which retain heat well.

Flies are persistent because patios offer ideal fly habitat. By understanding what brings flies to your patio, you can take steps to disrupt the cycle and send them packing!

Health Risks Posed by Flies

While they may seem merely annoying, flies actually pose significant health risks:

Disease transmission – Flies can carry over 100 pathogens harmful to humans, like salmonella and E. coli [1].
Food contamination – When flies land on food, they deposit bacteria and viruses that can cause serious illness [2].
Maggots – Fly larvae in decomposing organic waste can transmit pathogens and trigger allergic reactions [3].

According to the World Health Organization, flies are vectors for more than 65 diseases [4]. Some common illnesses transmitted by flies include:

Dysentery
Cholera
Typhoid fever
Tuberculosis
Diarrhea
Eye infections like trachoma
Polio

Flies pick up disease-causing bacteria and viruses from garbage, feces and other decaying matter. When they land on your patio food and surfaces, they transfer these dangerous pathogens directly to you and your family.

Importance of Eliminating Fly Infestations

Given the health implications, it’s critical to get rid of any fly infestations on your patio. Here’s why:

Prevent illness – Reducing flies limits the spread of harmful bacteria and viruses.
Improve hygiene – Fly specks on surfaces indicates the presence of infectious pathogens.
Enjoy patio again – Relaxing outside is much more pleasant without incessant buzzing and landing flies.
Protect pets – Dogs and cats can also get sick from bacteria left behind by flies.
Reduce risk for neighbors – Flies from your patio may also spread to nearby homes and yards.

By getting rid of patio flies quickly, you protect the health of your family, pets and community at large. Don’t resign yourself to endless circling flies – take action to create a fly-free outdoor living space!

References:

[1] “Flies: Biological Carriers of Disease”
https://parade.com/971204/marilynvossavant/flies-biological-carriers-of-disease/

[2] “Flies in the food chain”
https://www.canr.msu.edu/news/flies_in_the_food_chain

[3] “Maggots and Food Poisoning”
https://www.healthline.com/health/maggots-food-poisoning

[4] “Microbiological Risk Assessment Series: Risk Assessments of Vibrio Spp. in Seafood”
https://apps.who.int/iris/handle/10665/70170

Finding the Source of Circling Flies on Your Patio

Before implementing fly control measures, it’s important to find the source attracting them to your patio. Here are some things to inspect for:

Inspecting for Standing Water

Flies need moisture to breed and lay eggs. Check your patio and surrounding areas for any standing water acting as a fly nursery:

Birdbaths – Change the water at least weekly.
Flower pots – Empty excess water that collects in saucers.
Leaky spigots/hoses – Fix any drips or leaks.
Downspouts – Make sure they divert water away from patio.
Puddles – Fill in low spots that collect rainwater.
Drip trays – Empty AC condensation, grill drippings etc.
Pet water bowls – Refresh frequently.
Fountains – Ensure circulated and chlorinated if necessary.
Irrigation leaks – Detect and repair leaky sprinkler heads.
Clogged drains – Clear debris so water drains properly.

Eliminating standing water deprives flies of breeding sites. This is a foundational step to breaking the reproduction cycle.

Looking for Pet Waste

Dog and cat feces provides the ideal environment for flies to multiply. Be diligent in searching for and removing all pet waste around your patio, including under bushes or furniture.

Check at least daily, especially if pets have constant patio access.
Look along walls, fences and planters where waste can collect unnoticed.
Consider blocking access under gates, deck rails or furniture overhangs.
Teach pets to use a designated toilet area away from patio.

Prompt removal and disposal of feces eliminates a huge fly magnet. For best results, consider products like Nature’s Miracle to fully cleanse traces of waste.

Checking for Trash and Debris

Flies feed on and lay eggs within decaying organic material. Ensure your patio and surrounding yard is free of:

Discarded food – Especially meat, produce peelings or sweets.
Compost piles – Contain in fly-proof bins away from patio.
Pet food spills – Wipe up promptly.
Dead insects – Vacuum or sweep up.
Tree droppings – Rake away fallen flowers, seeds, leaves.
Grassy clippings – Use catcher when mowing near patio.
Weed growth – Pull roots; don’t leave piles.
Gutter debris – Install gutter guards.
Garbage cans – Use tight sealing lids and place away from patio.

Regularly checking for and eliminating trash, compost and organic debris removes fly breeding and feeding sites.

Identifying Nearby Sources on Neighboring Properties

Flies may originate elsewhere but end up circling your patio. Scout for fly magnets around the perimeter:

Neighbor’s trash – Kindly point out overflowing cans that need emptying.
Manure piles – Politely request they cover and relocate away from property lines.
Pet waste – Notify neighbor if you notice excessive feces in their yard.
Livestock pens – See if pens can be positioned farther from your patio and cleaned routinely.
Untidy compost – Offer tips to help them improve compost maintenance.
Overgrown plants – Mention vegetation touching fences that could harbor flies.
Wet spots – Suggest filling in chronically damp depressions.
Irrigation leaks – Notify them of broken sprinklers along shared fences and walls.

While you can’t control neighbors, you can kindly bring issues to their attention, especially if flies persist after addressing your own property.

Inspecting your patio’s perimeter helps identify external sources that may be contributing to circling flies. Eliminating fly-friendly conditions both on and off your property provides the one-two punch needed to banish patio flies for good!

Cleaning Up Your Patio to Eliminate Fly Breeding Grounds

Flies need food, moisture and shelter to breed successfully. By thoroughly cleaning and sanitizing your patio, you deprive flies of ideal nursery conditions.

Removing Pet Waste

Pet waste provides nourishment for fly larvae while also attracting adults. Make sure your patio is poop-scoop free by:

Daily patrols – Walk the patio perimeter and under overhangs seeking stools.
Prompt pickup – Collect droppings before they dry and adhere to surfaces.
Sealed disposal – Place in tied plastic bags before putting in outdoor cans.
Spot clean – Use an enzymatic cleaner like Nature’s Miracle to remove traces.
Limit access – Restrict pets from soiled areas to prevent re-pooping.
Litter maintenance – Remove cat waste clumps daily; replace litter weekly.
Training – Teach pets to relieve themselves in designated zones away from patios.
Repellents – Sprinkle products like Shake-Away around the patio perimeter.

Taking a zero-tolerance approach to pet waste deprives developing flies of a prime food source.

Eliminating Standing Water

Flies require moisture to breed. Be diligent about dumping out or changing any standing water on or near your patio:

Birdbaths – Clean and refill with fresh water every 2-3 days.
Flower pots – Empty excess water in saucers under container plants.
Grill pans – Remove grease drippings; don’t let puddle under grill.
Leaky fixtures – Fix dripping spigots, sprinklers or AC drain lines.
Puddles – Sweep away; fill in chronically wet depressions.
Pet water – Refresh frequently; dump and clean bowls daily.
Fountains – Change water regularly; use tap water treatments.
Drainage – Ensure downspouts and drains carry water away from patio.
Gutters – Install gutter guards; keep them cleared of debris.

Without moisture, flies can’t progress from egg to larva to mature adult. Eliminating standing water stops this sequence before it starts.

Cleaning with Disinfectants

Flies spread bacteria and diseases when they land on surfaces. Regular disinfecting helps eliminate germs:

Bleach solution – Mix 3⁄4 cup bleach per gallon of water. Apply to hard surfaces and outdoor furniture.
Vinegar – Wipe down surfaces with equal parts vinegar and water. Rinse.
Ammonia – Add 1⁄2 cup clear ammonia to 1 gallon water. Use on non-stone surfaces.
All-purpose cleaner – Use a patio-safe, non-toxic all-purpose cleaner.
Pressure wash – Rent or buy a pressure washer to deep clean patio surfaces.
Commercial disinfectant – Use EPA-registered patio disinfecting products.
Air purification – Place natural air cleaners like bowls of vinegar around patio.

Regular disinfecting removes viruses and bacteria left behind by flies. This improves patio hygiene while discouraging future swarms.

Power Washing Hard Surfaces

Over time, organic debris collects on cement or stone patios, providing food for flies. Consider occasional power washing:

DIY rental – Rent a power washer from a home improvement store.
Hire a pro – Pay a cleaning company to professionally pressure wash.
Buy a washer – Invest in your own quality power washer for repeat use.
Safety first – Wear eye and ear protection; don’t spray electrical fixtures.
Scrub first – Remove loose dirt with a broom; spray stuck-on grime.
Soft surfaces – Avoid spraying delicate surfaces like wood, wicker or fabric.
Aftercare – Sweep away debris; let the patio dry completely before using again.

Power washing blasts away layers of accumulated organic matter. This denies flies a long-term source of food and nutrients.

Sweeping and Removing Debris

Take time to sweep your patio thoroughly:

Leaves/seeds/flowers – Trees drop plant matter that collects in corners.
Dirt/cobwebs – Dust and interior webs blow onto patios.
Grime – Sweep away sooty buildup along foundation walls or under overhangs.
Grass clippings – Use a leaf blower or patio broom to tidy grassy edges.
Weeds – Pull roots; don’t leave piles of discarded weeds on the patio.
Twigs/branches – Prune back encroaching trees/shrubs; clear away fallen wood.
Garbage – Pick up any stray litter like food wrappers, cans or bags.
Dead insects – Remove piles of dead bugs including dried fly carcasses.

Thorough sweeping removes debris that would otherwise decompose and provide fly food. This eliminates another key breeding habitat.

By completely cleaning and sanitizing your patio, you leave flies few places to eat, lay eggs and reproduce. The cleaner the space, the less hospitable it becomes for flies!

Making Your Patio Less Attractive to Flies

Removing Food Sources

Flies swarm patios because they offer ideal breeding conditions. Here are tips to make your patio less fly-friendly.

Flies need food to survive. Eliminate any consumable items on your patio:

Pet food bowls – Feed pets indoors or clean bowls after meals.
Compost bins – Relocate away from patio; use fly-proof enclosed bins.
Fruit bowls – Bring any ripened fruit indoors.
Crumbs/spills – Sweep or wipe up after patio meals. Don’t leave leftovers out.
Grease drips – Clean BBQ grills after each use.
Trash cans – Use cans with tight-sealing lids.
Fallen tree fruit – Collect ripe fruit that drops from trees or shrubs.
Vegetable gardens – Locate edible plants away from patio.
Bird feeders – Position farther from patio to avoid seed spills.

Without access to food waste, flies struggle to survive and breed on the patio.

Managing Trash Cans

Even secure, lidded cans attract flies when they contain food waste.

Seal lids – Replace cracked lids; ensure they fasten tightly.
Clean cans – Use soapy water; rinse fully before replacing liners.
Line cans – Double bag to prevent leaks; use extra-thick contractor bags.
Use cans daily – Take out garbage at least once a day.
Keep cans closed – Shut lids immediately after dumping waste.
Position away – Keep cans in alleys or distant side yards, not on the patio.
Mask scents – Sprinkle baking soda or bleach into cans to mask smells.

Conscientious trash management limits this primary fly attractant.

Keeping Plants Trimmed

Flies seek shelter in thick, overgrown vegetation:

Shrubs/trees – Prune branches that extend onto or overhang the patio.
Weeds – Pull any weeds; keep patio perimeter weeded.
Vines – Train climbing vines to grow on walls or trellises away from patio.
Groundcovers – Edge and trim groundcover plants encroaching onto patio.
Grass – Edge grass neatly along borders; keep mowed short.
Potted plants – Prune excess growth; avoid crowded pots that self-shade.
Dead growth – Remove spent plants; clear away fallen leaves and debris.
Dense plants – Space out and thin dense vegetable gardens or flower beds near patios.

Keeping vegetation trimmed back eliminates protected nesting spots for flies.

Turning Off Patio Lights at Night

Flies congregate around light sources:

Outdoor bulbs – Turn off any patio, post or string lights at night.
Motion detectors – Adjust so they don’t trigger if just flies are moving.
Indoor lights – Draw curtains and blinds at night to prevent light shining onto patio.
Bug zappers – Don’t use these, as the light attracts more flies than are killed.
Solar lights – Place low-wattage solar powered spotlights along paths, not patio.

By minimizing nighttime lighting around your patio, you don’t offer flies a light source to swarm after dark.

Making small tweaks to your patio’s cleanliness, landscape and lighting makes it far less inviting to flies looking for ideal breeding territory.

Repelling Flies Naturally

Before resorting to strong chemicals, try these natural tricks to repel patio flies:

Using Fans

The gentle breeze from fans disturbs the flight of flies. Position fans around patio seating areas:

Ceiling fans – Install outdoor-rated ceiling fans under patio covers.
Pedestal fans – Place powerful pedestal fans in patio corners.
Misting fans – Misting fans add a cooling mist that deters flies.
Box fans – Set up portable box fans along the patio perimeter, pointed outward.
Oscillating fans – Use sweeping oscillating models to cover more ground.

Aim for continuous air circulation, as flies prefer stagnant conditions. Fans work best used in multiple locations for full coverage.

Growing Carnivorous Plants

Add some natural fly catchers to your patio pots:

Venus flytraps – These iconic traps lure in flies with their sticky, sweet nectar. Their jaw-like leaves then snap shut on the prey.
Pitcher plants – Flies are drawn into the pitcher-shaped modified leaves but can’t escape due to downward pointing hairs.
Sundews – These have sticky tentacles on their leaves on which flies get trapped.
Butterworts – Tiny glandular hairs coat their leaves, entrapping insects.

Position carnivorous plants in areas where flies tend to gather. Let them supplement your fly control efforts by serving as natural traps!

Planting Herbs Like Basil, Mint, and Lavender

Certain herbs naturally repel flies with their strong scent:

Mint – Peppermint, spearmint and catnip mint all deter flies. Crush leaves to release more aroma.
Basil – Flies dislike cloves; rub foliage to unleash more scent.
Lavender – Flies avoid this floral, clean-smelling herb.
Lemongrass – Citronella grass helps mask human scent that attracts flies.
Rosemary – This pungent herb confuses fly senses with its robust fragrance.

Plant fly-repelling herbs in pots on tables, or bordering patio edges. Crush leaves occasionally to refresh the smell. Growing these herbs discourages flies from congregating in patio areas.

Installing Bat Houses or Bird Feeders

Bats and birds devour flies. Entice these natural predators:

Bat houses – Mount bat boxes on high poles or trees 15-20 feet from your patio.
Bird houses – Appeal to insect-loving birds like martins or swallows.
Bird feeders – Offer seeds that attract the widest range of fly-eating bird species.
Birdbaths – Ensure a clean water source for thirsty insectivores.
Native plants – Grow shrubs and flowers favored by birds and pollinators.

Having airborne predators around means flies risk becoming dinner! A few houses, feeders and plants bring in natural allies against flies.

Using Essential Oils

Many plant oils repel flies:

Eucalyptus – This clean, medicinal scent deters flies. Use leaves or oil.
Citronella – The aroma masks human scent. Buy candles or sprays, or grow citronella grass.
Lavender – Flies avoid lavender’s floral, herbal fragrance.
Peppermint – Strong minty smell confuses flies. Use leaves or oil.
Rosemary – This sharp, pine-like scent camouflages appealing smells.
Lemongrass – The lemon aroma overpowers the scents that draw in flies.

Use these singly or combined. Position pots around the patio or prepare homemade sprays. Reapply oils after rain or periodically as the aroma fades.

Fly-repelling plants, beneficial insects and essential oils create an environment naturally inhospitable to flies. Before implementing harsher chemicals, try repelling flies using these gentler methods. Nature can provide the solution!

Trapping and Killing Flies

In addition to prevention, actively trapping and killing adult flies is key to reducing their numbers.

Using Fly Paper

Fly paper uses smell to lure in and adhesive to trap flies:

Placement – Hang strips where flies congregate like near trash cans or light fixtures.
Change often – Replace strips every 2-3 days as they fill up with dead flies.
Use multiples – To monitor population size, hang fly paper in several spots around the patio.
Different types – Choose fly paper on rolls or pre-cut hanging strips.
Homemade – Make your own by coating paper or cardboard with petroleum jelly or corn syrup.

Fly paper is an inexpensive, effective trap option, both indoors and out on patios.

Employing Fly Traps

There are various styles of traps on the market:

Bag traps – Flies enter these inverted bags attracted to smells but then can’t find the exit hole.
Bottle traps – Flies get in through the funnel neck but can’t get back out.
Ultraviolet (UV) traps – Flies are drawn to the UV light but electrocuted when they enter the trap.
Non-toxic indoor/outdoor traps – Granular bait or scented attractants lure flies in; replace bait regularly.

When using traps:

Follow manufacturer instructions for ideal placement.
Position traps out of reach of kids and pets.
Clean traps regularly.
Replace attractants and baits per package directions to maintain effectiveness.

Traps bring flies to a contained space where they can be disposed of en masse.

Spraying Natural Insecticides

If flies persist, gently treat outdoor spaces with natural insecticidal sprays:

Soap spray – Mix 2 Tbsp dish soap with 1 quart water. Spray flies directly. Avoid plant leaves.
Vinegar spray – Use 20% vinegar in water solution. Reapply after rain.
Herbal spray – Steep herbs like mint, lavender or eucalyptus in water. Strain and spray.
Garlic spray – Puree garlic cloves in water. Let steep 1 day before spraying.
Peppermint essential oil – Add 15-20 drops per cup of water.
Citrus spray – Use orange peel soak water or lemon juice mixture.

Spot treat affected areas. Avoid plant leaves and blooms. Reapply every few days and after rain.

Zapping with Electric Fly Swatters

Electric bug zappers quickly kill flies by electrocution. Considerations:

Indoor/outdoor models – Choose a waterproof swatter for patio use.
Power source – Battery-powered models offer portable convenience.
Safety – Take care not to shock yourself or others when zapping flies!
Clean after use – Wipe off fly remnants for sanitary ongoing use.
Night use – Turn off patio lights and use against flies drawn to the zapper glow.

Electric swatters provide crackling, sizzling satisfaction along with effective fly control.

Manual Fly Swatting

Don’t underestimate a classic fly swatter! Tips for success:

Optimal swatters – Choose wire mesh racquet-style swatters with comfort grips.
Aim low – Sneak up beneath flies; swat upward for best contact.
Follow through – Use rapid, committed strokes. No tapping!
Night hunting – Swat sluggish flies roosting at dusk or resting at night.
Get help – Give kids mini plastic swatters to make it a fly-killing family affair!
Safety first – Accidentally swatting humans, pets, or valuables is no fun. Take care.
Dispose – Wrap dead flies in tissue and toss in outdoor bins immediately so they don’t spread bacteria.

Though old-school, a good swatter in skilled hands quickly eliminates every unlucky fly.

Using traps, natural insecticides and old-fashioned swatting reduces the number of adult flies capable of reproducing. This helps gain control of infestations. deploy these measures in combination with preventive steps for best results. Your patio will be fly-free in no time!

Maintaining a Clean Patio

Ongoing patio maintenance is key to preventing future fly infestations.

Regularly Disinfecting Hard Surfaces

Flies spread germs when landing on patio surfaces. Disinfect regularly:

Daily pickup – Do a quick daily sweep for debris. Wipe up spills or messes.
Weekly light cleaning – Sweep thoroughly and wash down surfaces with soapy water. Rinse well.
Monthly disinfecting – Use a patio-safe disinfectant product on hard surfaces monthly. Avoid plant foliage.
Seasonal deep clean – Do an annual power wash or hire a cleaning service to deep clean the patio.
After illness – Disinfect vigorously if anyone with a contagious illness has used the patio.

Developing household routines to sanitize patio gathering spots helps protect your family’s health by destroying pathogens left behind by flies.

Quickly Cleaning Up Spills

Don’t delay cleaning food spills that can attract flies:

Dry spills – Immediately sweep up crumbs, chips or other dry foods.
Wet spills – Wipe up sauces, grease drips, sugary spills etc. with paper towels.
Pet messes – Clean any pet vomit, urine or feces right away.
Rinse – Wash patios with water after spills are removed.
Sticky spills – Use vinegar, hot soapy water or a patio-safe cleaner for stubborn sticky spots.
Greasy spills – Sprinkle corn starch or baking soda to absorb grease; sweep it up once absorbed.

Prompt spill clean-up leaves no traces to attract scavenging flies.

Frequently Emptying Trash Cans

Flies detect even faint scents of waste. Take garbage management steps:

Daily pickup – Police patio areas and take out trash daily.
Change liners – Replace trash bags frequently; don’t wait for them to overfill.
Clean cans – Wipe out dirty cans with disinfectant; rinse thoroughly before adding fresh liners.
Mask scents – Sprinkle baking soda or dryer sheets in bottom of cans.
Tight lids – Verify lids seal tightly and remain closed when not in use.
Alternative disposal – Consider composting food waste safely away from patio rather than trashing it.

Don’t give patio flies any opening to access your garbage!

Keeping Plants Trimmed Back

Flies seek shelter in thick vegetation. Tidy up patio plants:

Weekly walkthrough – Do weekly patio perimeter walks looking for any plant growth encroaching onto the patio.
Prompt pruning – Snip back any shrub branches, vines or ground covers extending onto the patio space.
Border edging – Maintain crisp edges where plants meet patio borders.
Weeding – Pull weeds weekly so they don’t spread into patio cracks.
Valuable patio real estate – If space is tight, consider replacing some border plants with those less prone to wild growth.

Don’t let your patio plantings provide fly habitats! Keep them neatly contained.

Storing Items in Sealed Containers

Flies can access open containers left on patios:

Lidded bins – Keep outdoor toys, cushions, tools etc. in lidded plastic deck boxes or bins.
Waterproof containers – Store fabric items in waterproof deck buckets to prevent water damage during rains.
Furniture covers – Use fitted furniture covers on patio seating when not in use.
Dining sets – Place dining sets in storage sheds or covered areas when not hosting patio meals.
Grill covers – Use a properly-fitting waterproof grill cover.
Trash can storage – House trash bins in lidded sheds or enclosures away from the patio.

Don’t give flies any opportunity to sneak into stored items. Keep them secured in sealed containers.

Staying on top of basic patio maintenance tasks may sound tedious but is essential to prevent reinfestation and achieve lasting fly control. A clean, tidy patio is a fly-free patio!

Please let me know if you would like me to modify or add to this patio maintenance section in any way. I aimed to provide helpful tips for keeping a spotless,sanitized patio.

When to Call a Professional Exterminator

While DIY remedies may resolve minor fly troubles, more extreme infestations call for professional help.

Signs of Severe Infestation

Look for these red flags of a major fly issue:

Clouds of flies swarming whenever you step outside.
Fly specks covering walls, surfaces, fixtures or furnishings.
More than 20-30 flies caught per fly paper strip.
Ongoing presence of maggots in window sills or around trash cans.
Visible roaming groups of flies indoors.
Persistent flies after diligently implementing DIY measures over 2-3 weeks.

If you are catching flies by the dozens daily, seeing masses of maggots, or still battling flies inside, it’s likely time to call an exterminator.

DIY Methods Prove Ineffective

You’ve diligently tried DIY solutions like:

Removing breeding grounds
Using fans, plants and oils
Trapping flies
Disinfecting the patio

But flies persist after 2-3 weeks of concentrated effort. At this stage, you’ve given the gentlest methods a fair try. Seeking professional help could provide stronger solutions to finally gain control.

Identifying Nesting Sites Out of Reach

Flies may have gotten into inaccessible outdoor spaces like:

Gaps behind exterior siding or trim
Cracks in foundation walls
Openings where cable or utility wires enter the home
Eaves or attic vents
Under roof shingles or tile
Between window or door screens and frames
Hollow fence posts or rails

Nesting inside framing, walls or other hard-to-reach areas allows flies to re-emerge later. Professional exterminators have the equipment and expertise to treat these tricky spots.

Calling an exterminator doesn’t mean you’ve failed in your DIY efforts. If flies have gained a strong foothold or found clever nesting sites, professionals have access to stronger chemicals and treatment methods. This “big gun” approach could finally rid your patio of pests for good.

When considering professional help, find a licensed, insured and experienced exterminator. Ask what treatments they will use and if they have eco-friendly options. With the right exterminator, you can look forward to clear summer skies on your patio again soon!

Preventing Future Fly Infestations

Don’t go through the hassle of eliminating flies only to have them return next year. Take these proactive steps to prevent future infestations:

Install Screen Doors and Windows

Screens keep flies outside where they belong:

Window screens – Ensure all windows have tight-fitting screens without holes or gaps. Repair or replace damaged screens.
Doors – Install screen doors leading onto patio areas. Keep doors shut rather than propped open.
Screened porches – Screen in roofed patio areas fully for protected outdoor living space.
Screened vents – Add screen mesh to open attic, eave and foundation vents flies could enter through.
Pet doors – Choose screened models to allow pet access while prohibiting flies.
Seals – Check window and door seals for wear; replace worn seals. Sturdy screens provide the first line of defense against future fly invasions.

Use Fans to Disrupt Flight Patterns

Create an air barrier with fans:

Ceiling fans – Install fans under covered patios on high speed.
Window fans – Mount fans facing outward in windows overlooking patio areas.
Exhaust fans – Strategically place roof-mounted fans to pull air up and out.
Whole house fans – Pull inside air out through attic vents.
Oscillating fans – Position these in landscaping bordering patios.

The gentle breeze foils the flight path of flies. Use fans proactively when entertaining outdoors.

Address Any Standing Water Issues

Eliminate recurring sources of moisture:

Drainage – Grade soil to promote drainage away from structures and patio.
Gutters – Clear gutters regularly so water doesn’t overflow.
Leaky fixtures – Repair any patio plumbing leaks promptly.
Irrigation – Inspect sprinklers for leakage; adjust watering schedules to patio needs.
Structures – Use downspout extenders to carry roof runoff well away from patio.
Furniture – Stabilize uneven wobbly patio furniture that could trap water in depressions.

Fixing moisture problems removes the dampness flies need to breed successfully.

Manage Waste and Compost Carefully

Waste containment is key to avoiding flies:

Trash cans – Invest in commercial-grade lidded cans; empty frequently.
Compost bins – Use completely enclosed compost tumblers.
Pet waste – Dispose of feces immediately in lidded outdoor trash cans.
Diapers – Use lidded, foot-pedal diaper pails placed away from patios.
Food waste – Drain or blot wet waste before trashing.
Recycling bins – Rinse and drain containers before recycling.

Careful waste habits eliminate irresistible fly magnets from your property.

Grow Natural Fly-Repelling Plants

Strategically place these plants round patios:

Citronella grass
Mint
Lavender
Basil
Marigolds
Chrysanthemums
Sage
Catnip

You can also crush leaves of repelling plants like mint or lavender and scatter around patio edges.

Encourage natural fly deterrents by incorporating repellant plants into your landscaping.

Implementing targeted prevention measures means you can enjoy your patio without dreading annual fly invasions. An ounce of prevention truly is worth a pound of cure when it comes to protecting your outdoor living space!

Key Takeaways: How To Get Rid Of Circling Flies On Patio In 11 Effective Ways

Understanding what attracts flies to patios allows you to disrupt the cycle. Promptly remove food, standing water and waste.
Thoroughly clean and disinfect the entire patio to eliminate filth flies breed in. Power wash hard surfaces and keep plants trimmed back.
Make the patio less inviting by removing food sources, managing waste carefully, and minimizing night lights.
Deter flies using fans, carnivorous plants, herbs like mint, and essential oils before turning to harsh pesticides.
Use fly paper, traps, natural sprays, electric swatters and manual swatting to actively destroy adult flies.
Stick to basic maintenance like prompt spill clean-up, frequent trash removal and sealing stored items.
Call a professional exterminator if severe infestations persist despite diligent DIY efforts.
Block future fly access by installing screens, using fans, addressing moisture issues, and planting fly-repelling plants.

Consistency is key – diligently implementing prevention and control measures will make your patio fly-free. With a proactive multi-pronged approach, you can enjoy outdoor living again!

Frequently Asked Questions About Eliminating Patio Flies

Q: How do I get rid of flies instantly on my patio?

A: While there’s no instant fix, using a combination of fans, traps, fly swatters and natural sprays can significantly reduce flies within a few days. Be sure to also eliminate breeding sites.

Q: What scent keeps flies away outside?

A: Strong scents from essential oils like lavender, mint, citronella and eucalyptus can repel patio flies. You can use oil-based products or grow plants that naturally emit repelling fragrances.

Q: What is the fastest way to get rid of patio flies?

A: Using electric fly swatters and traps can quickly kill adult flies present on your patio. Combine this with cleaning, fans and repellents for fast long-term control.

Q: How do I get rid of flies on my porch permanently?

A: Permanent fly elimination requires diligently depriving them of breeding sources by cleaning the patio thoroughly, installing screens, managing waste carefully, using fans and keeping the space tidy long-term.

Q: Why do I still have flies with fly traps outside?

A: Traps only catch some adult flies, not those breeding elsewhere. Combine traps with sanitation, moisture control, repellents and cleaning to address all stages of the fly lifecycle.

Q: Are flies on porch a sign of bigger problem?

A: A few flies are expected outdoors. However, large swarms or indoor flies could indicate infestation issues needing thorough patio and property cleaning and sealing up fly entry points.

Q: How do I keep annoying flies away from my patio?

A: Use fans, screens, essential oils, fly traps, carnivorous plants and natural sprays to deter patio flies. Keep the area clean and dry by promptly removing waste and fixing leaks.

Q: Why do flies keep coming back on my porch?

A: Flies return if breeding sites like trash, moisture and rotting leaves remain. Ensure you fully clean and dry the whole patio. Check for fly sources on neighboring properties as well.