What’s up with Water Bugs?

What’s up with Water Bugs?

This year in part due to flash rains combined with high heat we have observed a not unanticipated seasonal increase in American roach, Periplaneta Americana, a.k.a. “water bug” activity. As a result of the sewer and catch basin flooding they head for high ground which in a number of cases are the various drain and vent pipes found throughout human dwelling spaces like homes, apartments and commercial areas. While Standard technicians can proactively treat through the use of effective baits, dusts and placement of monitor/apprehension traps they can sometimes bypass these defenses by traveling through the pipes and wall voids so exclusion becomes the first and perhaps most important step in staying pest free. Some key access points of these one to two inch pests that should be addressed are as follows:

• Be sure all sewer caps are closed tightly and if covered by a steel plate secure it further through the use of duct tape around the edges.
• Maintain clear and unobstructed sewer lines to the street to reduce buildup of roach harborage in pipes and sump pit areas.
• In basement or slab construction buildings be sure floor drain covers are in place
• and screened with a suitable grade hardware cloth to prevent pest access.
• Screen all vent pipes including rooftop vents with a weather resistant hardware cloth as these roaches are known to climb over twenty floors to emerge on rooftops.
• Address any interior water or moisture issues such as cracked pipes, leaking roofs, brick pointing or other similar issues.
• Check meter areas and water main access for any activity or proper closure.
• Any unused drain including sinks, showers, dishwashers, rest rooms, terraces
• can have the water in the U trap evaporate and allow for roach access.
• Be sure to run water on a regular basis at least every other day in hot weather to prevent access.
• American roaches can climb up walls so on lower floors be sure to keep screens closed.

Please note that when these large roaches do die they should be removed by staff ASAP and not left lying around or in light fixtures to promote that infested feeling.