Dealing With American Cockroaches: Prevention And Extermination For Your Austin Home

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Seeing a large American cockroach running under an appliance is enough to startle anyone. While you’re most likely to find these insects outdoors in shady, moist areas like under mulch piles, if they experience food shortages or a significant change in the climate, they will seek shelter inside your home. Whether you are currently dealing with an invasion or looking to prevent one, this guide is for you.

We’ll start by explaining how to identify American cockroaches and review the risks they pose to your health and well-being. We’ll also describe proactive measures you can take to prevent these pests. Continue reading to learn how to achieve successful cockroach control in Austin with the experts from EnviroGuard.

Identifying American Cockroaches: Characteristics And Appearance

American cockroaches are larger than other common species, growing between 1 1/4 and 2 1/8 inches long. They have reddish-brown bodies with a yellowish figure-eight pattern behind their heads. These nocturnal insects try to avoid detection, so it helps to know some of their signs to keep an eye out for, including:

  • Small, blunt, cylindrical droppings that have ridges on the sides and look similar to mouse droppings.
  • Capsule-shaped egg cases are around 1/3 of an inch long and dark in color that they sometimes glue to surfaces.
  • As young cockroaches grow, they molt, and you may see these brittle shed skins around the house.
  • Cockroach pheromones can create a musty odor in your home.

Cockroaches breed rapidly, so it is best to take action at the first signs of a problem. Contact us today at EnviroGuard for assistance in eliminating these insects or to request a quote.

The Health Risks of American Cockroaches: Allergies And Diseases

Cockroach droppings in your home, along with their saliva and urine, can elicit allergic reactions and asthma attacks, especially in children. These dirty insects also carry pathogens that can harm your family, spreading diseases like dysentery, cholera, and typhoid fever. Cockroach bodies and spiny legs also spread bacteria that can contaminate your food and food prep surfaces.

Because of the significant health risks American cockroaches pose, the sooner you can eliminate them from your home, the safer everyone will be. Contact us today at EnviroGuard to learn more about how our cockroach control services can help protect your family from these dangerous pests.

Preventing American Cockroaches: Proactive Household Measures

Proactive prevention is the key to effective cockroach control. The following list includes our best tips to deter American cockroaches and prevent them from getting inside:

  • Install mesh screens over vents and drains.
  • Seal cracks and crevices on the exterior walls with silicone caulk.
  • Repair moisture issues like leaking pipes and dripping faucets.
  • Store trash in clean receptacles with tight-fitting lids.
  • Store food in airtight containers and avoid leaving food sitting out (including pet food).
  • Keep your home tidy, regularly vacuum areas where people eat, and avoid leaving dirty dishes in the sink.

Combining your efforts with a professional pest control company is the best way to avoid another cockroach infestation. Contact us today at EnviroGuard to learn how we can help you remove these pests and keep them from returning.

Say Goodbye To American Cockroaches: Contact The Pest Control Experts

American cockroaches are resilient, highly adaptable insects that can be challenging to eliminate. If you have been struggling to get these pests out of your house, it is time to call in the pros. Contact us today at EnviroGuard to learn more about our cockroach pest control services or to get your free quote.