Houston is well known for its warm, humid climate. But this is the ideal environment for cockroaches to thrive.
Cockroaches can fit into the smallest cracks in walls and floors, holes in window screens, and gaps in door frames. They also hitch-hike on used furniture or delivery packages to enter homes. Read on to discover the most common things that attract cockroaches to your home.
Common Cockroaches in Houston
These are the most common types of cockroaches found in Houston homes:
German Cockroaches
German cockroaches are the most common cockroaches in the world. They are easily identifiable with their light brown body and two distinct black stripes on the backside.
American Cockroaches
The largest of all cockroach species, American cockroaches have a reddish-brown color with a yellow band around their head. They can grow up to three inches long and can fly.
Oriental Cockroaches
Also referred to as black beetles or waterbugs, Oriental cockroaches have a dark brown, shiny black color. Larger than American and German cockroaches, they have wings but can’t fly.
Problems Cockroaches Cause
Regardless of what cockroach species you find in your house, these pests can pose a severe risk to your health. Cockroaches carry harmful bacteria, human pathogens, parasitic worms, and allergens. In addition, they may cause food, water, and surface contamination.
Their droppings, discarded wings, shed skin, and urine smell can give off a musty smell and may trigger allergies and asthma attacks.
Cockroaches also damage valuables. Their excrement may cause discoloration and stain fabrics, upholstery, paper products, and wood.
Most Common Things That Attract Cockroaches
Cockroaches need three things for survival – food, water, and shelter.
Moisture
Cockroaches prefer moist environments. Any damp areas in your home serve as a major attraction and breeding haven for these pests. Fix plumbing leaks under sinks, leaky pipes, faucets, and broken gutters to keep these pests out of your home.
It is essential to ensure proper ventilation to avoid moisture build-up. Turning on exhaust fans in the kitchen and bathroom and opening the windows and doors to let moisture out. Installing dehumidifiers can also help in humid areas.
Food Source
Cockroaches seek places where they can find ample food. Food crumbs, spills, leftovers, and pet food are the most common food sources.
Kitchen trash and grease on stovetops and countertops can be inviting for roaches, and they may also get into stored food items.
Any decaying organic matter, exposed trash or recycling, and pet litter boxes or used diapers may also attract roaches.
Good Hiding Spots
Cockroaches are mainly attracted to dark and damp areas where they can hide. Some of the most common spots where roaches may hide include under appliances and sinks, behind electronics, under closets and cabinets, and attic vents.
Outdoor hiding spots include thick vegetation, storage sheds, yard clutter and debris, and storage boxes in the garage.
How to Keep Cockroaches Out
The most effective strategy to keep roaches out is to eliminate their food supply. Cockroaches will eat anything, so keep your home clean and free from crumbs, spills, and leftovers.
Use garbage bins with tightly-fitting lids and store food in sealed containers. Be sure to clean behind and under appliances, and do not leave pet food bowls out in the open.
Lastly, eliminate entry points by sealing all cracks, gaps, and holes around doors, window frames, and tiles with caulk.
For more serious infestations, call the professionals at Romney Pest Control today. A pest control company can help you get rid of the problem, giving you the ultimate peace of mind.
