Do I Need Professional Cockroach Control?

There are many types of roaches that can make their way into your South Florida home, and none of them are ideal. 

For example, German Roaches are some of the most common perpetrators of roach infestations in our area. 

It’s no secret that these insects are incredibly unpleasant (and unwelcome) which is why it’s so important to address the pest problem as quickly as you can. 

In fact, cockroaches can be quite dangerous because they carry several pathogens that are harmful to humans and pets. 

Ultimately, if you’re experiencing a roach problem, then you need a solution. 

But are store-bought pest control products enough, or is it time to call for professional roach control?

Common Cockroaches In South Florida

There are many types of roaches in the area, but some are more common than others. These four cockroaches are the most common in West Palm Beach, FL, and the surrounding area:

• German Cockroaches: These are tan or light brown, and grow up to ⅝ of an inch long. Behind their heads,  you can spot two dark stripes. They typically have wings, even though they do not fly often. 
• American Cockroaches: These are the most common roach species in Florida. They can grow up to 2 ⅛ inches long and have a reddish-brown color. They are identifiable by the yellow figure-eight mark on their heads. They also have wings and often fly. 
• Australian Cockroaches: These are between 1 ⅕ and 1 ½ inch long. They are light brown, with a dark spot inside of a yellow ring on their backs. 
• Brown-Banded Cockroaches: As the name suggests, they are brown. They have a light-brown band on their wings and can fly. They are roughly ½ inch long. 

Dangers Of Cockroaches

Cockroaches are not just a nuisance, they can also pose a danger. These pests can spread several different bacteria and harmful pathogens inside your home. 

Roaches typically trek through sewers, trash, and feces outside. In these places, they can pick up a host of harmful bacteria. As they scurry through your home, along your kitchen counter and handles, they can spread this bacteria. 

The pathogens they can carry and spread may cause the following diseases:

• Typhoid fever
• Salmonellosis
• Gastroenteritis
• E. coli

Furthermore, those with allergies and asthma may be at even more risk. Roaches commonly trigger allergic reactions and asthma symptoms. 

Preventing Cockroach Infestations 

Your first line of defense against these dangerous pests is prevention. Even if you’re already dealing with roaches, it’s in your best interest to prevent more from entering. 

Here are some helpful tips for cockroach prevention:

• Seal all entry points around your home. They often enter through tiny cracks in your foundation or walls, as well as spaces by doors and windows. Use weather stripping and repair any damaged screens. 
• Inspect before entering. Cockroaches often make their way inside hidden on deliveries or other items. Take a close look at packages, boxes, furniture, etc. before bringing them into your home. 
• Address any water problems. Roaches may enter your building in search of water. Excess moisture attracts them. Handle any water issues around your home, like issues with faucets, pipes, downspouts, etc. Use a dehumidifier, especially during our humid summers!
• Frequently clean. Keep your home tidy and clutter-free to eliminate hiding spots and help keep these pests out. Take out the trash regularly and sweep up any messes as soon as possible. 

Preventing roaches is important, but it’s not easy. The truth is, cockroach infestations are difficult to prevent. These determined pests can often still find a way in. Furthermore, they are excellent at hiding, and they reproduce quickly. A roach infestation can sneak up on you even when you take all of the right prevention steps. 

Getting Rid Of Cockroaches In Your Home

Trying to eliminate cockroaches yourself is not often the best solution. However, many homeowners are understandably concerned about the issue and want to do everything they can. 

Before trying to get rid of cockroaches on your own, you should know that they are resistant to many pesticides. Furthermore, handling them on your own is risky and time-consuming. 

Still, here are a few tips that may help:

Getting Rid Of American Roaches

First, examine the extent of the roach problem. How many American roaches do you see per week? If you see them every day, then they may be in your sewer or septic system. On the other hand, if you see them less often, they may be entering from exterior paint. 

The first step is to cut off the access points. Make sure all toilets and pipes are sealed. Look for exterior holes, cracks, and crevices to seal as well. 

The next step is to use granular cockroach bait both inside and outside of your home, in the places roaches like to hide. Our experts at Native Pest Management recommend Maxforce Complete Granular Insect Bait. Apply the bait where these insects typically hide. 

Getting Rid Of German Roaches

The approach to handling German cockroach infestations is a little bit different. German roaches do not live outdoors, and granular bait doesn’t work well on them. 

Instead, the priority for a German roach infestation is sanitation. Deep clean your home, specifically address grease, food, and water. Try to vacuum up as many roaches as you can along the way. 

For German roaches, we recommend gel bait, especially Vendetta Plus. Apply pea-sized droplets in the cracks that these roaches hide and breed in. 

Using an Insect Growth Regulator is extremely helpful, as it can help to break their life cycle and cut down their reproduction. 

If the tips above aren’t enough, then you can use a non-repellent spray like Alpine WSG. Do not spray it on bait or right on the roaches. You want the roaches to bring these control products back to the others. 

Signs You Need Professional Pest Control For Roaches

At-home treatments can help you get rid of some roaches,  but it’s not the best method for roach control. Simply put, roaches are very difficult to control on your own. Without expert intervention, the problem is likely to continue. 

Even if you spot one cockroach, you cannot be sure more are not lurking in the deep cracks and hidden crevices of your home. When you find one, there’s a very likely chance that you have hundreds more hidden away. 

Furthermore, roaches typically require a few treatments to completely eliminate. Doing this on your own is time-consuming, frustrating, and even dangerous. 

Here are the signs it’s time to call a roach exterminator for help:

• You’ve spotted a roach. It’s even more urgent if you see them often. 
• Roach droppings around your home. 
• At-home treatments are not working. 
• You’ve had a roach problem in the past. 
• A strong musky, oily odor. 
• Roach egg casings. These are brown cylinders that hold 10-50 eggs. 

If you spot any of the issues above, then it’s time to get in touch with a pest control technician for cockroach extermination for your home or business. 

Why Professional Roach Control Is The Best Solution

When it comes down to it, the most effective way to get rid of roaches is to call a pest control company. While there are at-home pest control products available, they are difficult to use correctly and safely. Oftentimes, homeowners find that their roach problem persists even after they’ve spent extensive time and money trying to handle it themselves. 

Professional roach control is the most effective solution. Experts have the necessary products and tools to handle roaches. They bring a wealth of expertise to help you eliminate roaches once and for all. Additionally, they can provide advice for preventing the issue from returning. 

Pest Control Company In South Florida

We understand the desire to protect your home and your family, which is why Native Pest Management is here to help with your pest control needs. If you’re experiencing an issue with these pests, then it’s time to call an exterminator for professional roach control. 

Our team at Native Pest Management uses the most effective, safe solutions for addressing all pests, including roaches. We are committed to helping South Florida homeowners in West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, Wellington, Jupiter, and beyond with all of their pest control needs. 

Our dedicated team has been committed to offering pet-safe pest control in the South Florida area since 2015. We’ve already helped hundreds of families get rid of pests, including cockroaches, and we are here to help you reclaim your home as well. 

You don’t need to take our word for it, we’re proud to share the 5-star rating we’ve heard on Google Reviews, Angie’s List, HomeAdvisor, Facebook, and more. With an A+ BBB rating and hundreds of reviews from real customers, you can count on us to help you with your roach problem today. 

If you’re dealing with cockroaches in South Florida, then it’s time to call Native Pest Management for professional cockroach control. Our team is here to help with our full-service, same-day services as well as options for ongoing treatment. We won’t let roaches, or any other pests, take over your home any longer. 

To learn more about our roach control services, contact our team of specialists today at (833)470-2122. Request your free quote using the form below.