Cockroaches: what you need to know

If there were a prize for the most disgusting pest, the cockroach would win. A national survey conducted by HomeTeam Pest Defense found that 40% of homeowners have experienced a problem with cockroaches and 65% of house hunters would no longer consider buying a home after discovering cockroaches.
There are so many reasons to abhor cockroaches; they spread 33 types of bacteria including E. coli and Salmonella, they can trigger allergies and asthma and their ability to survive up to a month without food makes them even more horrifying. Without their head, cockroaches can live for a week or longer! Yes, they are that creepy!
Unfortunately, this gruesome creature can be found everywhere in the U.S. The most widespread types in the States are the American and German cockroaches. The American cockroach is brown to reddish brown with a maximum size of 2.1 inches, while the German cockroach is pale brown and about ½ inch in size. Both can be found feasting on improperly bagged household trash and discarded food scraps.
Cockroaches are typically found in areas where they can access water. The best places to inspect for signs of a cockroach infestation are:

• Behind kitchen appliances such as refrigerators, stoves, and Dishwashers
• Under mats, rugs, floor drains, and sinks
• In cupboards and drawers
• Within walls and behind wallpaper

Summer offers the ideal climate for cockroaches as warmer temperatures and humid climates are the best living conditions for them. You can lessen the chance of an infestation in your home by following these guidelines to eliminate their preferred environments:
• Avoid leaving out dinner scraps and unwashed dishes. Keep leftover food stored in tight, covered containers whether they are on the counter or in your refrigerator.
• Wipe down all kitchen surfaces. Any sticky or sugary residue remaining on your counter, stove or floor after cooking is an invitation for cockroaches to snack.
• Fix leaky water sources. Keep moisture at a minimum by promptly repairing leaking pipes or faucets.
• Pick up after yourself. Make sure all of your trash makes it into the garbage bag and is securely covered to eliminate food sources.

Cockroaches are nocturnal insects that prefer to crawl around dark nooks and crannies. If you see one scamper across your kitchen floor during daylight hours, you may have an infestation.
Call HomeTeam Pest Defense today at 855-855-4873, let us help control cockroaches in your home!