When you bought your first home, did you foresee all of the problems that would come with it? Most new homeowners have a general idea of possible issues that might arise, but not a full scope of just how many things could go wrong. The good news is that most problems are avoidable with a little bit of knowledge. Today we will be discussing how to deal with one dangerous pest known for invading homes here in Henderson, NV — the cockroach.
Common Cockroaches Around Henderson, NV
Henderson is home to three species of cockroaches – American cockroaches, German cockroaches, and Oriental cockroaches. Below is how to identify each.
American Cockroaches
American cockroaches are the largest species of roach that live here in America. These sizable roaches boast an impressive two-plus inches in total length. American cockroaches are also identifiable by their reddish-brown color and the yellowish figure-eight pattern on the back of their head.
German Cockroaches
German cockroaches are the most common home-invading cockroach in the world. Much smaller than their close cousins at only five-eighths of an inch long, these invading machines are best identified by their light brown to tan bodies and the two almost parallel stripes located just behind their heads.
Oriental Cockroaches
Oriental cockroaches aren’t exceptional in any way, but they are just as much of a problem around homes. Also known as waterbugs, Oriental roaches are best identified by their solid black inch-long bodies.
Three things all roaches have in common include their compact bodies, long straight antennae, and ability to move at high speeds.
Problems Cockroaches Cause
Cockroaches are one of the most dangerous pests that infest homes here in the United States. Although extremely clean on the outside due to rigorous grooming habits, cockroaches carry various dangerous bacteria, human pathogens, and parasitic worms. These harmful sickness vectors are spread throughout homes through cockroach fecal matter. A few of the most common diseases cockroaches spread include:
- Salmonella
- Typhoid fever
- Cholera
- Dysentery
- Gastroenteritis
With larger infections, particulates from cockroach skin and fecal matter may trigger allergic reactions or asthma attacks. These allergens are spread into the air of homes and act much like dust.
How To Prevent Cockroaches
Cockroaches mainly enter homes to search for food or to find shelter. If your home provides roaches with an easy way in and scraps to eat once they get inside, know they will invade. To stop cockroaches before they even think about invading, use these cockroach prevention tips:
- Use a caulking gun or some liquid cement to fill in cracks, openings, and gaps in your home’s exterior foundation.
- Make sure your door and window screens are in good condition.
- Repair or replace door sweeps that are damaged.
- Patch up broken or worn weather-stripping around your home.
- Install fine screens over vents leading out of your home.
- Reduce the clutter in and around your home.
- Clean your home regularly, and try to limit the number of rooms where you eat and drink.
- Pick up your pets and clean out their food and water bowls before bed.
- Package away leftover foods inside airtight containers.
- Make sure all of your trash cans have tight-fitting lids.
If you suspect your home has cockroaches, or you would like some extra help preventing these pests in general, look to the professionals here at Anver Pest Control. Our residential pest control service has everything your home needs to beat pests and keep them out for good. Give us a call today to find out what pest-free could look like for your Henderson, NV home.