Roaches are extremely resilient pests, adapting to different temperatures and weather conditions. While they prefer warm, humid environments, they have learned to adapt to colder temperatures by making their way inside to avoid the cold and survive during the wintertime. So how do these creatures get inside?
Roaches, such as the American and German cockroaches, are very resourceful when getting inside our homes. These pests will crawl through the smallest hole or opening found in the exterior of buildings, windows, and doors. Roaches are also known to hitchhike inside our homes, traveling through our bags, luggage, used furniture, packages, and groceries.
While it may seem like an impossible task to prevent roaches, it can be done by placing preventative measures throughout your home.
Locate Entry Points
The first step in preventing roaches is finding out where they came from in the first place. If you notice them in one room, such as the kitchen or the living room, it’s likely that’s where they made their way inside. Check the doors and windows for openings or gaps and utilize weatherstripping to seal them out. Likewise, if you notice any holes in the exterior, seal them with flexible caulk. Before bringing any items inside your home, such as groceries or packages, inspect them beforehand.
Clean Up
Roaches love clutter and undisturbed areas to hide all day and search for food at night. Look to clean out piles of old newspapers, magazines, and cardboard boxes, as these pests like to feed on items that contain glue. Kitchens can provide roaches with plenty of food sources, making it essential to store them and clean your kitchen properly. Look to store food items such as bread, fruit, and vegetables in airtight containers. Likewise, look to clean up any crumbs or spills on your countertops, dining table, microwave, and stove. Instead of leaving dirty dishes in the sink overnight, look to wash and put them away after a meal.
Eliminate Water
Roaches need water to survive, making it essential to eliminate any standing water that will attract them inside. Inspect your homes for water sources, such as plants, drip plates underneath your refrigerator, and condensation around pipes. If you notice leaky pipes, repair them immediately, place stoppers over drains, and cover faucet spouts with screens.
Once infested, a cockroach infestation can grow quickly, making it essential to stay on top of your preventative measures. If you have a roach problem or want extra protection, consider contacting your local pest control company, which can provide you with an inspection and appropriate treatment plan for your home.
