a cockroach on a bathroom sink

What are cockroaches?

Cockroaches are aggravating and difficult-to-control pests that plague home and business owners worldwide. These creatures are adaptable, and those species that live near people have become very good at gaining much of their food and shelter from us.

a cockroach on a plant

Cockroaches vary in appearance by species but all have flat, oval-shaped bodies, six legs, and two antennae that are usually the same length or longer than their bodies. Some species have wings, while others do not. Additionally, some species are identified by the strong musty odor they create.

Are cockroaches dangerous?

The ability to spread bacteria, human pathogens, and parasites give cause for great concern when it comes to cockroaches, and you should notify your local pest control professionals at the first sight of them in your home or business. These pests invade in large numbers, and their shed skins and feces trigger allergies and asthma attacks.

In addition to health problems, cockroaches are responsible for causing other problems. They contaminate food and surfaces with bacteria that can cause salmonellosis, dysentery, and gastroenteritis. Their feeding habits can cause damage to furniture, clothing, boxes, food containers, and other personal items.

Why do I have a cockroach problem?

Cockroaches become a problem because they have discovered that your property offers them easy access to food, water, and shelter. Sources of food that attract cockroaches include trash, compost, pet food, food debris in outdoor eating areas, and unkempt gardens.

Cockroaches often find their way into homes and businesses while foraging for food. They move inside through open windows and doors, torn screens, and cracks in the foundation or exterior walls. Hitchhiking is another way cockroaches get inside. They hide in things like boxes, packages, and used furniture or appliances.

Once inside, these nocturnal pests are difficult to get rid of without professional help. They hide out of sight, scurrying away at the first sign of light and are prolific breeders. A small cockroach infestation can quickly become an extensive and frustrating infestation.

Where will I find cockroaches?

Cockroaches thrive in warm, humid weather and are often very problematic in urban areas. Cities with dense populations allow cockroaches to thrive, providing them with plenty of food and shelter. However, roaches can also thrive in a variety of environments and become problematic in any urban, suburban, or rural setting.

Outside, cockroaches seek shelter in a variety of places, depending on their species. Spaces behind tree bark, under mulch, in gardens, around dumpsters, trash cans, compost, and in sewers are common hiding spots. Inside, most species seek dark, damp nesting locations, including behind appliances, under sinks, and around pipes and drains.

There are some species of cockroach that do prefer hot, dry areas; those cockroaches hide in attics or the upper parts of cabinets.

How do I get rid of cockroaches?

Getting rid of cockroaches from your yard, home, or business is best left up to a professional. The experts here at Amco Pest Solutions will provide you with the year-round solutions needed to get rid of them and prevent their return. Whether you are looking to get rid of a current infestation or prevent future problems with pests, our family-owned and operated company is here to help.

Our professionals are committed to providing the pest control services needed to keep your home or business free of cockroaches and other common pests. Reach out to Amco Pest Solutions today to learn more about our effective home pest control and commercial pest control solutions. Let's work together to protect your New Jersey, New York, or South Florida property from being taken over by cockroaches!

How can I prevent cockroaches in the future?

To make your property less attractive to cockroaches, use the following easy-to-execute prevention tips:

  • Inspect your home's exterior and seal‌ ‌entry‌ ‌points‌ ‌along‌ ‌the‌ ‌roofline, ‌‌foundation, ‌and‌ ‌exterior‌ ‌walls.

  • Fix‌ ‌leaky‌ ‌pipes‌ ‌and‌ ‌fixtures to decrease moisture problems.

  • Use dehumidifiers to reduce moisture levels in your home.

  • Keep tight-fitting or locking lids on‌ ‌your trash‌ ‌cans‌. Store trash cans away from the exterior walls of your structure.

  • Maintain and contain composting areas.

  • Pick up fallen fruits and vegetables from garden areas.

  • Keep outdoor eating areas areas free of food debris.

  • Pick up uneaten pet food.

  • Inspect boxes, packages, and used furniture before bringing them into your home.

Helpful Articles

What Makes The German Cockroaches In New Jersey So Bad?

How To Tell If You Have Cockroaches Hiding In Your New Jersey Home

The Dangers Cockroaches Bring To New Jersey Properties

How To Get Rid Of Roaches On Your Miami-Dade County Property

 

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