Avoid a Cockroach Infestation

Does it Bite? — Episode 39

Episode Focus: Avoid a Cockroach Infestation

In this episode of Does It Bite?, Bug Tech experts Stephanie and Michael dive into an unwelcome winter guest—cockroaches. You might think these pests go into hiding during the colder months, but as Michael explains, they’re often just getting started. From understanding the types of cockroaches to figuring out how they’re sneaking into your home, this episode unpacks what every homeowner should know about roach behavior, infestations, and prevention—especially in drier regions like West Texas.

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Quick Recap:

Roaches in the Winter? Yep, It’s a Thing.

While roaches thrive in warm, moist conditions, that doesn’t mean they disappear when the temperature drops. In fact, Michael explains that roaches actively seek out moisture inside homes during winter, especially when it’s dry outside. Common household water sources—pet bowls, sinks, bathtubs, and even toilets—become magnets for thirsty roaches.

Not All Roaches Are the Same.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to roach control. Michael outlines the differences between American, Oriental, German, and Brown-Banded roaches—all of which behave differently and require specific treatment strategies. Identifying the species is step one in creating an effective pest control plan.

Detective Work: How Pest Pros Track Roaches

Roaches are sneaky, but Bug Tech knows how to find them. Through smart questioning—like asking when and where homeowners typically see roaches—technicians can determine what type of roach they’re dealing with and where it’s likely nesting. Roaches that run from light? Probably German. Big ones on their backs? Likely American or Oriental roaches dying from dehydration or exposure to pest control treatments.

Water Meters: The Hidden Roach Gateway

One surprising source of infestation? Your water meter box. These underground, damp, and dark spaces are perfect breeding grounds. From there, roaches can use vibrating water pipes as a highway into your home. Michael describes how Bug Tech safely treats these areas with dust or bait—never liquid chemicals near water lines.

Slab Foundations & Entry Points

In West Texas, many homes are built on slab foundations that can trap moisture underneath. Roaches set up camp there and eventually move indoors when things dry out. Michael also shares practical exclusion tips—like installing door sweeps and sealing garage gaps—to cut off common access points.

Can You Carry Roaches Inside? Yes.

Stephanie brings up a childhood warning: don’t bring paper grocery bags into the house. While that may be an overreaction, Michael explains that roach eggs and even live roaches can hitchhike into your home inside corrugated cardboard—especially from food suppliers or secondhand items like appliances.

Is a Dirty Home to Blame? Not Always.

While poor sanitation can make infestations worse by providing food and hiding spots, cleanliness alone won’t keep all roaches out. For example, German roaches usually have to be introduced from the outside. However, a clean home helps make pest control treatments more effective.

Learn more at: https://www.bettercallbugtech.com/pest-control-services/