What To Do About German Cockroaches Around Your Raleigh, NC Property

The most common cockroach invader in the world is the tiny, tan-colored, German cockroach. When these roaches come into your yard and explore your property, they will almost certainly get inside. They are drawn to squeeze into tight spaces and will take advantage of any small gap or crack you give them. Their small size and ability to compact their bodies help them get in through the smallest of entry points. Once inside, they can present a serious threat to the health of anyone living or working inside. That is why these roaches should be addressed quickly when they appear outside of your Raleigh home or business.

Step One: Sanitation

German cockroaches in Raleigh are attracted to unsanitary conditions. They can be found in and around trash receptacles, compost, fertilizers, pet droppings, recycling, rotting organic matter, and more. To deter them, the first step is to address these unsanitary conditions:

• Clean trash receptacles and make sure trash is being removed from your property weekly - or sooner if smells are developing.
• Clean up rotting fruit, berries, grain, etc.
• Properly mix compost so that it does not have an odor.
• Store fertilizer in sealed containers before and after application.
• Pick up pet waste in your yard or on your grounds.
• Clean recyclable items before storing them in bins.
• Inspect your property for any sources of rotting organic matter and clean them up. This includes juices that have been spilled on the ground.

Step Two: Address Moisture

German cockroaches prefer moist and humid habitats. When they come onto your property, they will seek out areas that are damp. Here are a few tips to control moisture:

• Inspect the gutters on all structures and ensure that there are no blockages that prevent rainwater from being channeled down and away. Repair any damage and install splash blocks if they're missing.
• Inspect plumbing, hoses, and sprinklers. Repair any leaks you find.
• Make sure all sprinklers are on a timer so that oversaturation doesn't occur.
• Trim landscaping, remove weeds, and put spaces between plants to allow for the best airflow. This will help to keep your topsoil dry after watering.

Step Three: Apply Sticky Traps

If German cockroaches are exploring your exterior, it is important to know what locations they're targeting. The proper application of sticky traps can help you monitor cockroach pressures. This will also reduce the roach population, but it won't provide efficient protection. More control methods are required.

Step Four: Seal Entry Points

It is very difficult to keep German cockroaches out, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't try. The harder it is for a roach to get inside, the lower your chances of an infestation. This, combined with good sanitation on the inside of your home can make a big difference.

• Replace damaged weatherstripping and door sweeps.
• Fill in holes created by wood-destroying pests.
• Seal gaps around door and window frames.
• Seal gaps around pipes, wire conduits, loose wires, and other foundation penetrations.
• Seal cracks in foundation walls.
• Repair damaged mortar.
• Repair damaged screens.
• Replace broken window or door glass panes.
• Install weephole protectors.

Step Five: Address Hiding Places

German cockroaches are most at home around a property that has lots of places to hide. They hide inside and underneath objects, particularly organic objects, such as wood and stone.

• Move objects away from your exterior.
• Store items that do not need to be in your yard or on your grounds.
• Remove any items that create a dark, damp habitation underneath.
• Rake leaves, sticks, and other organic debris away from your exterior.
• Elevate stacked wood.

Step Six (or One): Seek Professional Assistance

There is no better way to control German cockroaches in Raleigh than to have routine treatments applied by a licensed pest management professional. At Go-Forth Home Services of Raleigh, we support homeowners and business owners with the application of EPA-approved products and other cockroach-preventative methods. We used industry-leading strategies that are field-tested.

If you have questions about German cockroach control in Raleigh or you'd like to schedule a meeting with one of our licensed professionals, reach out to us. We look forward to helping you find the right solution for your specific needs.