Cockroaches scurrying around in your residence is one of the most unnerving possibilities as a homeowner in New England. With colder weather, the chances of having a ‘roach hide out in the dark, damp corners become much more likely. Cockroaches are cold-blooded so they can’t survive freezing temperatures. This is what drives them indoors. Some types of cockroaches even live indoors all year-round.
It’s critical to deal with cockroaches as they can trigger asthma and allergy attacks. Their droppings, saliva, and shed skin contain potent allergens. They can also exacerbate asthma symptoms, especially in children. Here’s how to identify cockroaches and prevent them from hanging around.
Want to get rid of ‘roaches? Call us now at 413-566-8222.
Identifying Cockroaches
American Cockroaches
- Largest of the house-infesting roaches
- Typically reddish-brown
- Can grow as large as two inches
- Prefer moist areas
- Do not tolerate cold very well
- Tend to live in basements, sewers
- May move into your yard during the spring and summer
German Cockroaches
- Smaller species, measuring between ½ and ⅔ of an inch
- Can be tan, brown, or dark in color
- Have wings but are unable to fly
- Prefer to live indoors
- Often found in restaurants, food plants, hotels, hospitals and homes
Oriental Cockroaches
- Can grow to an inch long
- Typically shiny dark brown
- Prefer dark, damp places
- Can be found outdoors in sewers, under leaf cover and under mulch
- Indoors, you’ll find them in damp areas like basements, bathrooms and areas under sinks
Cockroach treatment and prevention
Cockroaches need to live near food and water to survive. By preventing access to both, you'll greatly reduce your odds of accidentally inviting cockroaches into your home. Regularly wipe down counters to keep them clean and crumb-free. Empty your trash often and clean under appliances like the microwave and toaster. Be sure to check under the sink for leaking pipes. Keep all food in air-tight containers. Regularly vacuum carpets and mop floors. Run dehumidifiers to keep your basement and crawl spaces dry. If there are any cracks in your home’s foundation, it's vital to seal those up. These are easy entry points for all kinds of pests.
Don’t forget to check your groceries while you put them away. Supermarkets and small neighborhood grocery stores may have an infestation you don’t want to bring home!
Additional Reading:
You can’t always prevent ‘roaches from getting in, but you can minimize the exposure. Our team at Graduate Pest Solutions specializes in prevention. Call us at 413-566-8222 or contact us with any questions or if you are experiencing a pest problem. We have the knowledge and service necessary to help keep your home and workplace pest-free!
