How Do Cockroaches Get Into Tampa Homes?

Nobody wants to see a cockroach in their home. These creepy creatures are social insects that tend to live in large groups; this means that if you see one roach in your home, there are likely to be several more hiding nearby. The main reason homeowners get so alarmed when they see cockroaches inside their homes is that they can spread a variety of viruses and diseases to both humans and pets.

At EcoSmart Pest Solutions, keeping you and your pets safe is our top priority. All our Tampa pest control technicians are state certified and specialize in safe and environmentally friendly cockroach control solutions. Here is a look at how you can safely eliminate roaches and prevent them from coming back into your home.

Common Entry Points For Cockroaches

Cockroaches are small insects that have flat, oval-shaped bodies. They can measure anywhere from 1/2 to 2 1/8 inches. Depending on the species, roaches can come in a variety of colors, but they are usually dark brown or tan. While some types of roaches have wings and can fly, they all have six legs that allow them to climb vertical surfaces and run fast.

Because they have such agile and slim bodies, they can squeeze through various openings. Some of the most common entry points that a roach will use include:

• Open spaces around pipes and cables in your home
• Gaps around doors and windows
• Exterior vents
• Cracks in the roof or through the chimney

Roaches are also capable of crawling in and out of your drains. They will frequently use the plumbing system in your home as a way to travel throughout your home undetected.

How To Tell If Your Tampa Home Has Roaches

Roaches are crafty little bugs that are experts when it comes to staying out of sight. If you can see a roach in your home, you likely have a roach infestation.

Some of the other signs that you can look for to indicate whether or not roaches are in your home include:

• A musty and foul odor that doesn't go away
• Dark smear marks caused by roach feces
• Translucent skin molts

Roaches will also leave behind these dark-colored egg capsules. Also known as an ootheca, these capsules are usually a dark reddish-brown color, but they can also be a tan or yellow color as well. They can hold up to 30 baby cockroaches at one time and are almost a sure sign that you have a cockroach infestation in your home. 

How To Prevent Roach Activity In Your Home

Roaches will come into your home in search of food, water, and a safe place to live. These disgusting bugs aren't too picky when it comes to finding a meal. They will eat almost anything. If you have any dry food, pet food, or fresh produce out in the open, they will try to eat it. They will also search through your garbage cans to find a meal. In order to prevent cockroaches from using your home as a diner, take out your trash regularly, keep all food in a sealed container, and don't leave your pet's food and water dishes out all day and night.

Roaches also like warm and moist areas, commonly hiding in bathrooms, basements, and other humid and moist areas. To deter roaches from your home, you should inspect your house for any leaky faucets or pipes. Also, you should make sure that every moist room is well-ventilated.

Why You Should Call The Professionals If Your Tampa Home Has Roaches

Cockroaches can spread harmful diseases and viruses, such as salmonellosis, cholera, dysentery, and listeriosis. The best way to keep your family safe is to call a professional roach control specialist at the first sign of a roach infestation.

At EcoSmart Pest Solutions, your health and safety are our top priority. As soon as you call us, we will come to your home at your convenience and perform a thorough inspection. Then, we can develop a customized plan tailored to your needs to ensure that your problem is solved quickly. If you suspect you have roache, don't hesitate to call us today to get started and to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Tampa.