Belonging to the order Blattodea, cockroaches are insects that have plagued homes and businesses throughout most of recorded history. Data suggests that cockroaches exist in roughly 4,000 different species throughout the world. Cockroaches have a flat, oval-shaped body style with six legs and antennae.
How do you get rid of cockroaches? While many local property owners with good intentions often try taking matters into their own hands when their home develops a cockroach infestation, often these efforts prove fruitless, as cockroaches demonstrate tremendous resiliency. Cockroaches have a durable exterior and move surprisingly fast through small openings in hard-to-reach places.
Speaking with a licensed pest controller is the best course of action when responding to these concerns. An experienced Los Angeles pest control professional knows how to get rid of big cockroaches quickly and will explain how to deter cockroaches from returning.
The Different Types Of Cockroaches To Invade Homes
In this region, some of the most problematic species that infiltrate homes include American cockroaches, German cockroaches, Oriental cockroaches, and brown-banded cockroaches. Each of these types has a different appearance; however, cockroaches share many of the same habits and characteristics. For example, cockroaches are omnivorous scavengers that will eat plants, animals, glue, soap, and more.
Cockroaches in Los Angeles are largely nocturnal creatures that generally remain hidden during the day and emerge at night seeking food sources. This is one reason why many homeowners might not initially encounter cockroaches, particularly early on following an intrusion. Cockroach activity often becomes evident in cupboards and pantry areas where weakly packaged dried food is scattered.
As weeks or months pass, homeowners often find dead roaches within pantry areas or below or behind furniture or appliance when cleaning. As these pests reproduce and the infestation expands, expect to notice more cockroaches during the day as competition increases for scarce amounts of food.
The Dangerous Health Risks Cockroaches Bring
Once indoors, cockroaches contaminate food and surfaces with their excrement. Property owners often detect a strong, unpleasant odor as larger infestations develop. Cockroaches also generate poor indoor air quality, and many individuals with sensitivities may experience adverse allergic reactions.
What diseases do cockroaches carry? Cockroaches are creatures that routinely venture through areas with filthy conditions such as trash and with exposure to dangerous parasites. Cockroaches carry salmonellosis, cholera, typhoid fever, E.coli infection, and a host of other health-related concerns.
Useful Cockroach Prevention Tips
Most homeowners who implement successful strategies for preventing cockroaches use a robust, comprehensive approach that includes limiting attractants in both interior and exterior areas and efforts that physically prevent access indoors. Some of the best practices include:
- Fill any cracks or other openings that develop around the base of the structure’s exterior near the foundation with a durable caulk or sealant.
- Apply weather stripping as needed to gaps that exist around the seals of windows or doors.
- Adopt diligent cleaning habits, particularly in kitchen areas, by sweeping up crumbs, wiping down counters, and never leaving dirty dishes out overnight.
- All trash bags placed indoors or outdoors containing food scraps must remain within durable, sealed containers.
While the aforementioned prevention strategies will likely yield some positive results, those struggling with existing cockroach infestations should always seek professional assistance regarding how to remove cockroaches for good.
The Most Effective Cockroach Control In Los Angeles
The pest control technicians with A Step Above Pest Control & Termite know how to eliminate cockroaches from your property and will often identify existing property conditions that make the premises vulnerable to subsequent cockroach intrusions.
Since 1996, our family-owned and operated organization has delivered results for home and business owners throughout Los Angeles facing pest-related problems. We adhere to the latest safety recommendations of the E.P.A. and have proper registration with the California Department of Pesticide Regulation. Our team is committed to operating in a manner that protects our customers, their pets, and the local environment.
Contact us today to schedule an inspection.