Cockroaches
(Blattodea)
Average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars 
What are cockroaches?
Cockroaches are nocturnal scavengers. They are highly adaptable creatures, and some species have learned the benefits of living with people. In Pennsylvania, we have many species of cockroaches that make our properties into their homes.
Some roaches like the German cockroach, Oriental cockroach, and American cockroach are considered structural pests and live inside our homes and businesses. Other species like the Pennsylvania wood roach and Australian cockroach are more of an outdoor pest and usually only move inside during periods of harsh weather.
Are cockroaches dangerous?
Cockroaches are nocturnal and during the day do their best to stay hidden from view. At night they emerge to forage for food. Cockroaches are dangerous pests, not because they are particularly aggressive, though they can bite people, but because of the diseases, bacteria, and parasites they spread.
Cockroaches are vectors of many diseases that can cause the following:
- Diarrhea
- Vomiting
- Fevers
- Stomach pains
- Gastrointestinal issues
These insects will contaminate any surface or food source that they crawl over. Cockroaches live together in large numbers, and as their shed skins and excrement build up, they become airborne and trigger allergies and asthma attacks in susceptible people.
Why do I have a cockroach problem?
There are many ways that cockroaches can find their way into your home and become a problem for you and your family. In fact, their ability to enter structures in so many different ways is what makes these pests so difficult to prevent and control.
Cockroaches will travel indoors through spaces they find in the foundation, around windows and doors, and through vents. Cockroaches also move inside through drains and spaces around wires and cables going into your home.
Some cockroaches like German cockroaches have perfected the art of hitchhiking and will move from place to place in things like cardboard boxes, furniture, and even electronics and appliances. Some outdoor species, like the Pennsylvania wood roach, move into our homes on things like potted plants or firewood.
Where will I find cockroaches?
Cockroaches living in our region are attracted to warmth and moisture, whether they live indoors or out. Outdoors cockroaches live in woodpiles, behind tree bark, under mulch and fallen trees, near drains and sewers, and near piles of garbage.
Those that have moved inside take up residence in places like kitchens, bathrooms, and basements. They hide in the backs of drawers and cabinets, behind appliances, in boxes, and near sinks and tubs.
Cockroaches are nocturnal, so if you see them out during the day, it is a good indicator that a large infestation has already developed, and you need to take immediate action to eliminate the infestation.
How do I get rid of cockroaches?
Cockroaches invade structures in large numbers and spread diseases and bacteria wherever they travel. The fastest way to eliminate these unwanted intruders is to partner with a professional. At Masters Touch Pest Solutions, we have over 25 years of local pest control experience, and we will provide you with the effective and dependable pest control services necessary to identify and remove cockroaches from your home!
If you live in the West Chester area and need help getting rid of cockroaches from your residential or commercial property, reach out to Masters Touch Pest Solutions. Our professional would be happy to go over our tailored pest control options with you!
How can I prevent cockroaches in the future?
In addition to our home pest control and commercial pest control services, take advantage of the following prevention tips to keep cockroaches out of your home:
- Remove areas of excess moisture from your yard and home that attract cockroaches to your property. Repair any leaking pipes, low-lying areas, and clogged gutters.
- Use dehumidifiers and air conditioners to reduce humidity levels in your home.
- Seal spaces in your home’s exterior that cockroaches could move their flat bodies through.
- Vacuum your home often to remove crumbs from its floor. Regularly wipe down counters.
- Inspect packages, furniture, firewood, and other items you are bringing into your home for cockroaches.