Cockroaches are notoriously hardy insects that pose major challenges for homeowners. Not only are they incredibly unsanitary, but they can also contribute to allergies and asthma. Roaches can be difficult to get rid of, but through exclusion, sanitation, and chemical methods, control can be achieved.
Seal Entry Points
Sealing the exterior of your home is one of the best ways to prevent cockroaches and many other pests from getting into your house. Small cracks and gaps can be sealed using caulk, and larger holes and openings can be sealed with expandable spray foam. Windows and doors should also have intact screens and weatherstripping.
Keep Your Home Clean
Cockroaches enter homes in search of food, water, and shelter. They are attracted by crumbs, clutter, and other debris. Cockroaches will eat nearly anything, so if you want to keep them away, cleaning your home is critical. Sweep and vacuum on a regular basis, wipe counters and tables, take out the trash daily, and declutter your home.
Eliminate Excess Moisture
Roaches like to live in humid environments. When they enter homes, they tend to congregate in moist areas like kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and basements. Eliminating moisture can be done by fixing leaky pipes or faucets, ensuring proper drainage around your home, cleaning out gutters and downspouts, running bathroom fans, and using a dehumidifier if needed.
Identify Roach Nests
Once you have preventative measures under control, it is time to address current cockroach problems. Roaches gather in groups in places referred to as “nests.” Cockroach nests are found in dark, moist areas that are hidden. If you hope to be able to get rid of the cockroaches, you need to be able to find the nests. Using a flashlight, search for roaches in common places around your home like cupboards and drawers, behind appliances, under furniture, under the sink, in bathrooms, and other places where you have seen cockroach activity.
Cockroach Control
Once you have identified where the roaches like to hide, you can start to treat them. Roach baits are among the most effective ways to control roaches. Baits come in gels, powders, and stations. Place baits near harborages so that roaches will eat the poison and then return to the nests. Cockroaches will eat the feces and dead bodies of other roaches, so the poison will quickly spread throughout the cockroach population. Liquid pesticides are also available for use indoors and outdoors and can help eliminate them for good.
Hire Professional Pest Control
If your roach infestation is very large or you do not feel comfortable with the control methods mentioned, professional pest technicians can assist in your efforts. The experts at GTA Toronto Pest Control are experienced in dealing with roaches and all other types of pests. For the fastest and most efficient roach control in Toronto and surrounding areas, contact GTA Toronto Pest Control.
