What are cockroaches?
Cockroaches are insects, and are every home or business owner’s worst nightmare. They are prolific breeders, take over properties in large numbers, spread diseases, and are difficult to eliminate. Roaches are scavengers and feed on a variety of food and non-food items. They have adapted to living in almost any indoor or outdoor environment. Cockroaches are relatively easy to identify by their flat, oval-shaped bodies and long antennae that are about the same length as their bodies.
Some have wings, although whether winged or not, most species just scurry from place to place. In our Blount County, Alabama service area, the most common species of cockroaches that invade our homes and businesses include the German cockroach, American cockroach, smokey brown cockroach, and the Oriental cockroach.
Are cockroaches dangerous?
Before finding their way into your home or business, cockroaches were most likely living in and traveling through unsanitary conditions like sewers, dumpsters, carrion, and excrement. The bacteria, human pathogens, and parasites they carry on their bodies and legs will contaminate food, dishes, and surfaces inside a home or business.
Cockroaches spread salmonella and other bacteria that causes fever, vomiting, and other digestive issues. Also, many people are allergic to their shed skins and feces, which trigger allergic reactions and asthma attacks, especially in young children. Along with bringing potentially harmful bacteria, they are very difficult to get rid of in your Huntsville home or business.
Why do I have a cockroach problem?
Cockroaches live in large numbers all around us. They tend to be more problematic in urban areas but can become a problem in suburban and rural areas as well.
Cockroaches find their way onto properties while foraging for food. Things like trash cans, pet food, and outdoor eating areas are very attractive to roaches. Once on your property, it is only a matter of time before they’ll find their way indoors through openings in your home’s exterior as they forage for food. Cockroaches also get into homes and businesses inside packages, grocery bags, used appliances, used upholstered furniture, or even on the bottom of a shoe!
Where will I find cockroaches?
Most species of cockroaches prefer dark, warm, damp areas. Some species, like German cockroaches, prefer to live inside, while others, like the American cockroach, prefer to live outside. Cockroaches are nocturnal and hide during the day, emerging at night to forage for food.
Those roaches that are living outside are usually found in flower beds, behind tree bark, in woodpiles, in sewers, near garbage cans, and under mulch. When roaches move inside, they choose locations that are near food sources. Cockroaches that have moved inside usually live in kitchens, bathrooms, basements, and crawlspaces. They take up residence in drawers, cabinets, and in areas under sinks and around pipes.
How do I get rid of cockroaches?
Get rid of cockroaches by partnering with the trusted experts at Custom Pest Control. For over 20 years, we have been helping home and business owners maintain pest-free properties. If you are looking for a personal approach to pest control, look no further.
At Custom Pest Control, we customize our home pest control programs to meet the unique needs of each of our customers. Let our family protect your family from North Alabama’s toughest pests! For more information about our cockroach control service, reach out to Custom Pest Control, and speak with one of our friendly professionals today.
How can I prevent cockroaches in the future?
The best way to prevent problems with cockroaches is to partner with a professional and implement the following prevention tips in and around your Huntsville, Alabama home:
- Store trash and compost in sealed containers away from the exterior of your home.
- Place woodpiles away from the exterior walls of your house.
- Inspect your exterior walls and foundation, sealing any cracks or openings you find.
- Place mesh covers over drains entering into your home.
- Reduce the humidity levels in your home using dehumidifiers.
- Quickly clean up food and liquid spills inside your house.
- Inspect packages and deliveries for cockroaches before bringing them into your house.
- Avoid purchasing used appliances or upholstered furniture for use in your home.