What are cockroaches?
Cockroaches are oval-shaped insects that are attracted to moisture and food. They are omnivores and scavengers, which means they will basically eat anything, including the food we eat!
Cockroach infestations in your home across the United States but flourish in regions like Houston with our hot, humid climate. These prolific breeders will quickly take over any indoor or outdoor space that meets their basic needs. Sharing your home with these unsanitary pests should never be allowed for one more day than necessary!
Are cockroaches dangerous?
Cockroaches aren't just unwanted in our homes because they aren't cute and cuddly. They are unwanted in our homes because they pose a significant health risk.
Cockroaches live in unsanitary places and feed on decaying organic matter. They are in constant contact with bacteria, human pathogens, and parasites.
When cockroaches enter our homes and crawl across surfaces and stored foods, they spread the unsavory pathogens they carry on their bodies. Salmonella, staphylococcus, and streptococcus are all spread by cockroaches.
In addition, the shed skins of cockroaches and the build-up of their excrement put many allergens into the air that can trigger skin rashes, cold-like symptoms, and in those susceptible, asthma attacks.
Why do I have a cockroach problem?
Most cockroaches have wings and can fly, but most choose to use their six spine-covered legs to travel. Cockroaches use their flattened body to move through small spaces and enter our houses. Our home's promise of food and moisture is the main driving force for moving indoors.
Cockroaches are also exceptional hitchhikers. They use their flat bodies to hide out of sight within things like appliances, boxes, potted plants, pieces of furniture, and electronics and move wherever we take them.
Where will I find cockroaches?
In Houston, cockroaches can live successfully outside. Outside we regularly find cockroaches living in gardens, on trees, around dumpsters and trash cans, and near sewers and drains.
If cockroaches find their way into our homes, they will quickly find a daytime hideout that puts them near food and water sources they can take advantage of at night.
Typical cockroach hangouts include the backs of drawers and cabinets, spaces behind appliances, cracks in walls and ceilings, cardboard boxes, and gaps behind sinks and tubs.
It is important to remember that if you find a cockroach in your house, you should take immediate action as more cockroaches are hiding around your home that you haven't yet seen!
How do I get rid of cockroaches?
The easiest way to get rid of cockroaches from your Houston home is to partner with a pest control professional. Here at The Bugstoppers, we have stopped cockroaches and other pests from taking over Houston properties for more than 40 years.
Our technicians are highly skilled and trained and are committed to getting the job done right the first time. By partnering with us, we will work with you to solve your home's unique pest problems through thorough inspections, effective treatments, and ongoing services! To learn more about cockroach control in Houston, call today!
How can I prevent cockroaches in the future?
We want to help you answer the common question, "How can I keep cockroaches away from my Houston home?" Use the following prevention tips to help avoid cockroach infestations!
- Seal cracks in the foundation and exterior walls of your home.
- Place weatherstripping around your home's windows.
- Install door sweeps on all doors leading into your home.
- Inspect firewood or planted pots for hiding cockroaches before bringing them inside.
- Always inspect pieces of furniture, appliances, electronics, and boxes for hiding cockroaches before bringing them into your home.
For year-round protection against cockroaches, reach out to us at The Bugstoppers!