How to Spot the Signs of Cockroach Infestation
What is a Cockroach Infestation?
There are few things more horrifying than seeing a cockroach in your home. These are some of the most common household pests, and unlike insects that wander inside without causing any harm, they come in on purpose, seeking food, water, and shelter. These opportunistic pests are difficult to kill and multiply quickly, and in addition to looking disgusting, cockroaches can cause serious health problems, bringing bacteria and allergens into your home.
What are the Signs of a Cockroach Infestation?
Does one roach necessarily mean more? How can you tell if you have been invaded by these nasty pests? What is a sign of a cockroach infestation? Your first and most obvious sign might be seeing the roaches themselves. However, you might also smell a strong musty, oily odor, which is a sign of an infestation. You may also see cockroach droppings, which look different, depending on which species of roach is in your house. Small roaches have droppings that look like pepper or coffee grounds, while larger species have cylindrical droppings. Cockroaches also lay eggs, which are oval-shaped and may be visible behind your furniture or tucked away into other hidden spots, like between your books.
How to Get Rid of a Cockroach Infestation
Getting rid of cockroaches is complicated, and requires a multi-pronged approach. First, you will need to know the extent of the infestation, and then you will need to use a combination of strategies to eliminate the roaches in your home. Baits, insecticides and making the house less appealing to roaches are all part of the process, and it can be extremely difficult to effectively eradicate an infestation on your own.
How to Avoid a Cockroach Infested House
The best way to prevent a cockroach infestation in your house is to keep it scrupulously clean. Sweep, mop, and vacuum regularly, so that no food particles or crumbs remain on your floors. Put away food, storing it in airtight containers, and never leave pet food out overnight. Wipe down all the surfaces in your kitchen, making sure that there is no grease, food debris, or sugar to attract these pests. Empty your trash frequently and securely close the bag if you aren’t going to empty the bin before you go to bed. Get rid of excess moisture in your house, repairing any leaks immediately, wiping up any standing water on countertops and in sinks, and using a dehumidifier in damp areas. Keep your home uncluttered as well as clean, because cockroaches love to live in clutter like old newspapers, cardboard boxes, and sinks with dirty dishes. In addition to making your home inhospitable to cockroaches, prevent them from entering it by sealing cracks and crevices, using weather stripping around doors, and making sure there are no gaps around window, doors, and baseboards. Inspect any bags, boxes, containers, and second-hand furniture you bring into the house before it comes inside, to make sure no cockroaches are hitching a ride. Additionally, keep your yard well-maintained, trimming grass, clearing away debris, storing firewood away from the house, and keeping your gutters clean.
How Long Does it Take to Get Rid of a Cockroach Infestation?
Once cockroaches gain a foothold in your house, they are not easily eradicated. Because they can hide in extremely small spaces, you may have a hard time treating an infestation by yourself, and it can take up to six months for an infestation to be completely gone, especially if you didn’t notice the roaches until the infestation was large. The fastest way to get rid of a cockroach infestation is to call for professional pest control.
Why Choose Apex Pest Control?
At the first cockroach infestation signs, call Apex Pest Control for help. Apex tailors cockroach infestation treatment to address the type of cockroaches invading your home. Our experts know that treating a German cockroach infestation requires different tactics than an infestation of American cockroaches or of oriental cockroaches. We also offer preventative maintenance and will help you learn strategies for keeping your home free of cockroaches and other pests.
Contact Apex Pest Control for Cockroach Infestation Treatment
When you want to know how to stop a cockroach infestation and keep the cockroaches from coming back, contact Apex Pest Control, in Sacramento, California. For over 40 years, our family owned business has provided comprehensive pest control services, tailored to meet the unique needs of Sacramento homeowners. Our team of dedicated professionals, led by experienced industry experts, provides expert service to safeguard homes and businesses against pests. Striving to be leaders in the pest control industry, we continuously improve our methods, staying abreast of the latest advancements in order to exceed our customer’s expectations by providing the highest quality of service. For more information about our pest control and preventative maintenance programs, take the first step towards a pest-free home by contacting us today to schedule a consultation.