Seattle Roach Control

Getting Rid of a Cockroach Infestation

A cockroach infestation can be a tough pest situation for anyone to deal with. Whether you’re a homeowner or business owner, these unsightly pests need to be dealt with quickly to ensure the safety of your family, or customers. Cockroaches are notoriously hard to exterminate for a do-it-yourselfer, so it’s advisable to hire a trusted pest control professional to deal with these insects.

Cockroaches carry diseases and infest stored food, which spreads these diseases, through their excrement. Cockroach infestations can be serious if not taken care of in a timely manner, because of this, United Pest Solutions recommends contacting a professional pest control company as soon as possible.

Cockroaches are not a structural pest in that they do not do physical damage to buildings or surroundings; however, they can be a significant health concern and a difficult nuisance. Cockroaches can contaminate food products with their bodies or their waste products; they may also leave a disturbing odor in areas where infestation has taken place. 

Foraging cockroaches can also be vectors of disease, depositing germs or bacteria in areas that they infest and causing attacks of asthma in some people prone to reactions to cockroaches.

Understanding Cockroach Infestations

Cockroaches are nocturnal insects that thrive in dark, moist environments. They are drawn to food sources, moisture, and shelter, making kitchens, bathrooms, and basements prime targets for infestations. These pests can multiply rapidly, making it critical to address infestations as soon as they are detected.

There are several species of cockroaches found in Seattle, with the most common being the German cockroach, American cockroach, and Oriental cockroach. Each type has unique behaviors, but they all share the ability to quickly become a major problem if left untreated.

Why Cockroaches Are a Serious Problem:

• Health Risks: Cockroaches are known carriers of bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella, which can contaminate food and surfaces, leading to foodborne illnesses. Additionally, their droppings, saliva, and shed skin can trigger asthma and allergic reactions, particularly in children and the elderly.
• Property Damage: Roaches can chew through packaging, paper, and fabric, causing damage to your belongings and food supplies.
• Rapid Reproduction: Cockroaches reproduce at an alarming rate. A single female German cockroach can produce hundreds of offspring in just a few months, turning a minor problem into a major infestation quickly.

Signs of a Cockroach Infestation

Detecting the early signs of a cockroach infestation is key to effective control. Cockroaches are most active at night, so you might not see them during the day, but there are several indicators that can point to an infestation:

• Droppings: Small, dark droppings that resemble coffee grounds or black pepper are often found near food sources, under sinks, or in cabinets.
• Egg Casings: Cockroach egg casings, or oothecae, are brown or tan and can be found in hidden areas such as behind appliances or in dark corners.
• Foul Odor: A strong, musty odor is often associated with a large infestation, as cockroaches produce an oily secretion that gives off a distinctive smell.
• Shed Skins: As they grow, cockroaches shed their exoskeletons, leaving behind small, discarded shells.
• Live Roaches: Spotting a live cockroach, especially during the day, is often a sign that the infestation is severe. Roaches typically hide during the day and come out at night, so daytime sightings indicate overcrowding.