Controlling cockroaches or commonly known as water bugs, palmetto bugs or just plain roaches involves a mix of preventative measures, targeted treatments and often times professional help. Here’s a guide to effective cockroach control in Atlanta, Georgia:
Identifying the Type of Cockroach
American Cockroaches: Common in Georgia, these are large, brown cockroaches that prefer damp, warm environments like basements, drains, and sewers. they have a yellow marking around their head, shield, and the largest cockroach in Georgia.
German Cockroaches: Smaller and tan, these are often found in kitchens and bathrooms. German cockroaches have two dark stripes, running lengthwise down their bodies and are the most common cockroach found in structures.
Oriental Cockroaches: Dark brown or black, these are attracted to moist areas, often found outdoors or in basements.
Smokey Brown Cockroaches: Large cockroaches often sometimes more than an inch in length and they are a uniform dark mahogany, brown color. these insects are extreme flyers. They will hitchhike their way inside through all different different types of cracks and crevices and even on pets and humans!
Preventative Measures
Seal Entry Points: Inspect and seal cracks in walls, windows, doors, wood trim, roof gaps and plumbing. Cockroaches can squeeze through tiny openings and some species can fly to reach areas that are hard to access.
Keep Food and Water Inaccessible: Store food and snacks in Tupperware, vacuum up crumbs, and repair leaky faucets or plumbing.
Clean Regularly: Cockroaches thrive in dirty environments and they also carry and spread disease. Wash and clean floors, counters, and behind appliances regularly with an antimicrobial cleaner.
Manage Moisture: Ensure that your home is well-ventilated and that areas like basements and attics are dry
and are up local ventilation codes.
Natural Remedies
Diatomaceous Earth or Boric Acid: This powder or insecticidal dust can be applied in areas where cockroaches travel. It dehydrates and kills them when they come into contact with it. Be careful not to apply too thick or it will be a deterrent and the insects will avoid it.
Baits, Traps, and Insecticides
Gel Baits: These can be effective in some situations and can be placed in cracks, under sinks, cabinets and behind appliances.
Bait Stations: Commercial bait stations can be placed in high-traffic areas where cockroaches are likely to gather. Keep in mind that professional grade pesticides are more effective than one’s sold at your local hardware store.
Sticky Monitoring Traps: Use these traps to monitor the severity of a cockroach infestation and trap adult cockroaches.
Insecticide Sprays: Use insecticide sprays in crevices and areas where cockroaches hide. Be cautious with sprays around pets and children.
Professional Pest Control
Hiring a Professional: If you have a severe infestation, Smart Solutions Wildlife Removal is a local pest control companies in Roswell, GA and is experienced in handling cockroach pest control specific to the area. they also are full service wildlife removal and pest control company and specialize in pest extermination, termite control, mosquito control, wildlife trapping and exclusion, remediation and routine programs.
Smart Solutions has been in business since 2008 and has built a reputation being one of the leaders in the industry. They offer detailed inspections and catered solutions to give the best possible solution for your insect or pest problem. Check out their website for more info on cockroaches and pest extermination at https://www.
Routine Inspections: Regular pest control inspections can help prevent infestations, especially in humid areas in the southeastern United States. Pest inspections can be done by a licensed pest control technician and a report should be written each time you are serviced explaining any new pest activity as well as different techniques to control and prevent insect infestations.
