Not many pests are so universally known for being gross and dangerous as cockroaches. They are extremely common invaders of homes and businesses and they can be tough to get rid of. Knowing how you can spot the signs of an infestation and prevent one altogether is the only way to protect against cockroaches.
What Are American Cockroaches?
The largest cockroaches in the world are American cockroaches. While they aren’t as common as German cockroaches, they are also prevalent pests that can be found all over the world. Their name comes from the fact that American cockroaches, first introduced here via shipping routes, have truly thrived in urban America.
Here are some defining characteristics to tell them from other cockroach varieties:
- American cockroaches frequently grow to several inches in length, and those that thrive in sewers and areas with easy food access can grow even larger.
- Cockroaches are oval-shaped insects with hard-shelled bodies that conceal papery wings. They don’t really fly, however, typically only fluttering short distances.
- The clearest feature to tell an American cockroach apart from others is the figure-8 shape found atop their heads.
How Can You Prevent Cockroaches?
Because of the dangers they pose, you’re better off avoiding an American cockroach problem in the first place rather than waiting until you’ve got one to act. While DIY methods provide no guarantees of safety, here are some things you can do to reduce your likelihood of a cockroach infestation:
- If cockroaches can access store food areas like pantries, they can chew through weak packaging to get at these sources. Not only should you make sure your cabinets and doors don’t have areas for them to squeeze into, you should consider storing food in sturdier containers.
- Cockroaches will also eat the stuff we throw away, even if it’s not something we normally consider food. Make sure bins are secure and bags are sturdy.
- No hole or crack is too small for a cockroach to squeeze through, since they can flatten themselves to gain entry just about anywhere. Regularly check for and fix faults in your exterior.
- Cockroaches are attracted to moist or damp areas, so anywhere that water pools or condenses can be an attractant. Maintain pipes and address spills immediately.
Why Are Cockroaches Bad For Property Owners?
Cockroaches aren’t just gross to look at, they are dangerous and damaging to have around. Here are just some of the numerous problems that American cockroaches can cause on your property:
- Cockroaches can survive off things that other pests wouldn’t call food, like wallpaper and insulation. As they dig through these areas and forage for scraps, cockroaches can damage other structural or cosmetic materials.
- Cockroaches are known to carry many dangerous and contagious diseases, including salmonella and plague.
- The urine, feces and skin sheds that cockroaches leave behind all contribute to musty odors throughout a property. This is made even worse by their habit of nesting inside walls and vents.
What’s The Best Way To Protect Against Cockroaches?
Cockroaches aren’t something that average people can root out and eliminate on their own. Not only do they stick to the shadows and skitter away from view, they are resistant to many usual forms of elimination. Wasting time with ineffective methods just gives a cockroach population time to grow out of control. Instead, turn straight to the professionals who know how to properly address cockroach problems. At Texas Star Pest and Termite, our staff can give you even more tips on how to prevent and spot the signs of cockroach activity. Contact us today to get started on a thorough inspection of your home. If cockroaches are found, you can rest assured that we’ll completely eradicate them and arm you with prevention against future infestations.
Don’t wait to get started on cockroach control and prevention; turn to Texas Star Pest and Termite today. Learn more about our home pest control and commercial pest control services.