As a general explanation, cockroaches are fast, night-time active insects having flattened, wider bodies with antennae. Most would describe roaches as being large for an insect as well. Roaches can inhabit exterior environments as well as thriving indoors. There are numerous cockroach species well established in Georgia but the most common are the American cockroach and the German cockroach.
How to Identify The American Cockroach
The American cockroach may be dressed with several different names such as “Palmetto Bug”, “Wood Roach” or “Water Bug.” But make no mistake, what you are dealing with is a cockroach. Adults are often 2-inches long, and they have the ability to fly. They are deep reddish, brown in color.
American cockroaches typically live in the trees and vegetation around the exterior of homes but are often found in attics and crawlspaces. Sometimes referred to as an “occasional invader” due to their inability to survive indoors, American roaches usually find their way into your home through cracks and crevices around the roof line or doorways.
How to Identify The German Cockroach
The German cockroaches are insects most commonly found with established colonies inside homes. They are 1/2” to 5/8” at maturity but are often found in much smaller sizes. Distinctive black stripes can be seen behind the head when observed from above. The roaches are tan or shady in color.
They are normally observed by the homeowner in the kitchen area and may start with infrequent sightings. These isolated individuals are only the “tip of the iceberg.” The colonies may number in the hundreds within the wall voids of the home.
German Roaches are often carried into the home from food establishments or grocery stores. Once inside, it does not take these roaches long to create a stronghold that can be a nightmare to eliminate without proper treatment.
Are Cockroaches Dangerous?
In short, yes. cockroaches can prove to be very harmful to your health. They will contaminate food and food preparation surfaces by moving across them after leaving areas such as sewers and trash bins. German cockroaches in food establishments are the most common reason for food poisoning. In areas of heavy infestations, they can also cause a foul odor. The allergens associated with their feces and skin casts commonly cause allergic reactions and asthma attacks especially with young children.
How Do You Avoid A Roach Infestation?
When dealing with cockroaches, a bit of prevention can go a long way. With a routine service from Healthy Home, you receive the added benefit of having a trained professional inspect your home and property with each visit.
We may make suggestions such as trimming shrubs away from the house or having the gutters cleaned. These actions will eliminate cockroach harborage and avoid future issues. Small improvements such as these are often overlooked by a homeowner consumed with the hustle and bustle of daily activities.
Treatment for Cockroaches?
Cockroach treatments will differ based on the specific cockroach species you are battling. Healthy Home has developed safe, effective treatment strategies to address all types of cockroaches. These treatment measures can be as simple as an exterior liquid barrier to prevent roaches from reaching your home or the application of an insecticide to the attic insulation to combat roaches flying onto your rooftop. In some situations, a gel bait may be necessary to eliminate the pests. One thing is certain, Healthy Home has the answers for keeping your family safe from potential cockroach problems.
How Do You Get Started?
You can contact us by calling (770) 505-9040 or filling out our online form. With a quick consultation, we can determine which treatment option will be the best fit for your specific situation and keep your home cockroach free!