Roaches are known for hiding in dark and damp places. They also tend to thrive in locations with limited access to natural light. Because of these factors, most cockroach infestations occur in homes that are old or have had a history of moisture problems.
The presence of cockroaches inside your home is not only repulsive but also unhealthy. A roach infestation can quickly grow out of control if you don’t take the necessary precautions and address the issue as soon as possible. Left unchecked, roaches can spread bacteria and other microorganisms throughout your home.
If you suspect that you have something that causes cockroaches problems, take note of the following inspection checklist to reveal where they might be hiding.
Check for Signs and Causes of Cockroach Activity
First and foremost, conduct a thorough inspection of your home. Start in areas where you often see roaches, including kitchens and bathrooms. Inspect cabinets, behind stoves, underneath sinks, and inside toilets.
Look for signs of an infestation such as droppings, shed skins, and eggs. Inspect dark places, such as the corners of drawers, inside cabinets, and behind books and electronic devices. If you find any of the above signs, you most likely have a serious roach infestation.
Make sure to inspect your yard for signs of roaches as well. Inspect your house, as well as any bushes and trees that may be close to your home. Infestations often spread to nearby surroundings, so it’s important to inspect your yard thoroughly.
Identifying the type of Cockroach in your home
Once you’ve established that you have an infestation, it’s time to identify the species of roaches that have invaded your home. A pest control company will be able to conduct an inspection and determine the species of roaches that you are dealing with.
The most common species of roaches in the United States include the American cockroach, the German cockroach, and the Oriental cockroach. The American cockroach is the largest species of roach and can grow up to 2 inches long. It is reddish brown, with two black stripes running down its wings.
This species is also known as the “sugar bug,” as it is commonly found in sugar mills.
The German cockroach is the most common species of roach and is notorious for infesting homes. It is smaller than the American roach, measuring less than 1 inch long.
This species is reddish brown, with two yellow stripes running down its wings.
The Oriental roach is the smallest species of roach, measuring less than 1/2 inch long. It is yellowish brown, with two black stripes running down its wings.
What Causes Cockroaches to Infest Your Home?
Cockroaches tend to gravitate towards moist and warm environments, making coastal areas and tropical climates more susceptible to infestation. The following factors can contribute to an infestation and should therefore be avoided: – Excessive moisture inside and outside the home – A leaky roof or backyard sprinkler and a cluttered yard can cause flooding and excessive moisture.
- Access to food – Make sure to store all your food in airtight containers and store them in a cool and dry place. Always clean up after outdoor events, picnics, and BBQs.
- Lack of ventilation – Keep your home well-ventilated and clean. Keep the garage and basement area dry and clean.
- Lack of light – Make sure that all of your rooms get ample sunlight. Expose roaches to sunlight as much as possible.
How to get rid of cockroaches?
The best way to get rid of cockroaches is to prevent them from entering your home in the first place. Once there is an infestation, it’s almost impossible to eradicate all of the roaches. Therefore, it’s important to take preventive measures against an invasion. Keep your home clean and organized.
Make sure to store all food and dirty dishes in airtight containers. Keep your kitchen and other rooms clean and dry. Ventilate your home, especially the kitchen, to reduce humidity and make it less attractive to roaches.
In addition to preventing roaches from invading your home, you also need to identify a professional exterminator to treat and eradicate the current infestation. Look for an exterminator who has experience with getting rid of roaches. Get references and check reviews to make sure that the company is reliable and trustworthy.
Conclusion
Cockroaches are one of the most common pests found in homes across the world. Once they’ve entered your home, it can be extremely difficult to get rid of them. The best way to prevent an infestation is to keep your home clean, dry, and well-ventilated.
In addition, it’s important to seal up any cracks and crevices that might be providing roaches with access to your home. If you have a roach infestation, don’t wait to take action.
Start by conducting a thorough inspection of your home to determine where they are gaining access. Once you’ve established the presence of roaches, identify the species and take steps to eradicate the infestation.