Roaches are common household pests that thrive in Florida homes. Why are they so common in this area? What attracts cockroaches to the Sunshine State?
Roaches thrive in warm, humid environments, which is typical across the entire state of Florida. When you combine the ideal habitat with a house that provides food, water, and shelter, it’s no wonder cockroaches are so common here.
Even if you only have one cockroach, dealing with an infestation can be a nightmare! Roaches have everything they need in your home, including food, water, and a comfortable place to live. Cockroaches commonly found in Florida dwellings include American cockroaches, German cockroaches, and brown-banded cockroaches. While they may seem different, there are three basic reasons why these roaches infiltrate your home.
Excessive Moisture
Roaches require water to survive, and if they find any, they will return for more. AC systems that leak, heaps of wet leaves near the house, damp basements, leaky pipes under sinks, and roof leaks are all common areas to find excess moisture. It is critical to inspect these spots around the house for leaks and to repair them as quickly as feasible. Excess wetness in your basement or crawl space could be caused by humidity. To minimize moisture in these locations, consider purchasing a dehumidifier for your basement or enclosing your crawl space.
Crumbs and Spills
Roaches feed on anything they can find and will frequently invade your home in search of a food source. They’ll search our trashcans for food scraps, consume crumbs or food left on surfaces or floors, and if they’re very hungry, they’ll gnaw through cardboard or plastic food containers! Cleaning and organizing your home is essential for keeping these pests at bay. After each meal, make sure to put away any leftover food, clean up any spills, and sweep periodically.
Neighbors
Roaches will most likely spread from one property to the next if you reside in a condo, apartment, townhome, or a densely packed area. Roaches can often enter another home by crawling under doors, under sinks, through sewer pipes, and electrical wiring! Roaches will frequently sneak through wall plugs in a townhome or apartment. If you observe an increase of roaches in your house, cover or caulk gaps and holes on the outside of your home.
Roaches are hard to get rid of because they are so resilient. If your roach problem worsens, contact a local pest control company. These professionals will conduct an evaluation and provide a treatment plan for you.
