Cockroach Pest Control

Cockroach Identification

Cockroaches are one of the most persistent pests in the UK, and they pose significant health risks. The most common species found in homes and businesses in the UK include:

• German Cockroach: Typically light brown with two dark stripes running lengthwise on their backs. They are small, about 1.5 cm long, and are often found in warm, humid environments such as kitchens and bathrooms.
• Oriental Cockroach: These are larger, about 2.5 cm long, and dark brown or black. They prefer cooler, damp environments like basements, drains, and under sinks.
• American Cockroach: Though less common in the UK, this species is the largest, reaching up to 5 cm in length. They are reddish-brown and often found in commercial establishments, particularly in food processing areas.

Identifying an infestation early is crucial. Look for droppings, which resemble black pepper, egg cases, musty odors, and sightings of live insects, particularly at night.

Cockroach Advice

Blades Pest Solutions recommends taking the following steps to manage and prevent cockroach infestations:

• Swift Action: If you suspect an infestation, act immediately. Cockroaches reproduce quickly, and a small problem can escalate rapidly.
• Maintain Hygiene: Regularly clean areas where food is prepared or stored. Pay special attention to crumbs, spills, and grease build-up in kitchens. Regularly empty bins and keep them covered.
• Reduce Moisture: Cockroaches are attracted to moisture. Fix leaking taps, pipes, and other sources of water. Ensure that areas like basements and bathrooms are well-ventilated.
• Seal Entry Points: Cockroaches can enter through the smallest cracks and crevices. Inspect your property for potential entry points and seal them with caulk or other appropriate materials.

Cockroach Treatment

At Blades Pest Solutions, we provide a range of treatment options tailored to the specifics of your cockroach infestation. Depending on the situation, one or more of the following methods may be recommended:

• Baiting Systems: Our bait stations contain insecticide-laced bait that cockroaches consume and carry back to their nests. This method is highly effective for targeting and eliminating entire colonies over time, making it a reliable option for long-term control.
• Insecticidal Sprays: For immediate relief, insecticidal sprays can be applied directly to areas where cockroaches are most active. These sprays kill cockroaches on contact and are particularly useful for reducing the visible population quickly.
• Dusting Powders: We use insecticidal dusts, such as diatomaceous earth or boric acid, in areas where cockroaches are likely to travel. These powders stick to the cockroaches' bodies, eventually leading to dehydration and death. Dusting is an effective option for reaching cockroaches in hard-to-access areas like wall voids and beneath appliances.
• Heat Treatment: In certain cases, heat treatment may be recommended. This involves raising the temperature in infested areas to levels that are lethal to cockroaches. Heat treatment is particularly effective in environments where chemical treatments are not suitable, such as in food processing facilities or sensitive locations.
• Ongoing Monitoring: After the initial treatment, we offer ongoing monitoring services to ensure the infestation has been fully resolved. This might include the use of traps and regular inspections to confirm that no cockroaches remain. Ongoing monitoring is a valuable option for maintaining a cockroach-free environment over the long term.

Our team at Blades Pest Solutions will carefully assess your situation and recommend the most effective combination of treatments to achieve lasting results.

Cockroach Facts

• Long-Standing Pests: Cockroaches have existed for over 300 million years, making them one of the most resilient pests to eliminate without professional intervention.
• Health Risks: Cockroaches can spread diseases such as salmonella, dysentery, and gastroenteritis. They can also trigger asthma and allergies, particularly in children.
• Rapid Reproduction: A single female German cockroach can produce up to 40 eggs at a time, with her offspring reaching adulthood in just 6-8 weeks.
• Nocturnal Creatures: Cockroaches are most active at night, scavenging for food and water. Seeing one during the day often indicates a severe infestation.