Roaches we see in Southeast Tennessee
Not every roach is the same problem. The first thing we do is figure out which one you have, because that decides how we treat it.
- German cockroach. Small, light brown, with two dark stripes behind the head. Lives indoors in kitchens and bathrooms and breeds fast. This is the one that needs a dedicated treatment plan.
- American cockroach. The big reddish-brown one, often called a palmetto bug. Comes up from basements, crawl spaces and drains.
- Smokybrown cockroach. Dark brown, lives outdoors in mulch, gutters and trees, and wanders in. Very common around here.
- Oriental cockroach. Shiny and dark, often called a water bug. Likes cool, damp crawl spaces and drains.
From recent service calls
Signs you have a roach problem
- Droppings that look like black pepper or coffee grounds in cabinets and drawers
- Small brown egg cases, shed skins or a musty smell
- Roaches behind the fridge, stove or dishwasher, or under the sink
- Seeing roaches during the day, which usually means the population is large
How we get rid of German roaches
Store sprays and foggers rarely reach where German roaches hide, and they can scatter them deeper into your walls. Many German roaches have also built up resistance to store-bought products.
We treat the cracks, voids and appliances where they actually live, using baits roaches eat and growth regulators that stop young roaches from maturing and breeding. Many of our products are non-repellent, so roaches carry them back to their hiding spots and reach the ones you never see. We place monitors to track activity and come back for follow-up visits until they're gone, rotating products so they can't build up resistance.
Outdoor roaches
American, smokybrown and other outdoor roaches are covered on all of our service plans. We treat the foundation, doorways, mulch beds and crawl spaces to stop them before they get in, plus any indoor hot spots like basements and drains.
Help the treatment work faster
- Wipe up crumbs and grease, and don't leave dishes or pet food out overnight
- Store food in sealed containers
- Fix leaky faucets and pipes. Roaches need water more than food
- Cut down on cardboard and clutter where they can hide
- Check grocery bags, boxes and used appliances before bringing them inside
- Don't spray store products over our treatment. It can keep roaches from taking the bait
Common questions
How long does it take to get rid of German roaches?
Most homes see a big drop within the first couple of weeks. Heavier infestations take a few follow-up visits. We keep coming back and checking the monitors until they're gone.
Do I need to leave my home during treatment?
Usually not. We use targeted baits and crack-and-crevice treatments rather than fogging your whole house. We'll tell you if anyone, including pets, should stay out of a treated area for a while.
I keep a clean house. Why do I have roaches?
German roaches hitchhike in on grocery bags, boxes, used appliances and furniture, so even very clean homes can get them. Clean habits do help the treatment work faster.
Are big outdoor roaches included in my service plan?
Yes. American, smokybrown and other outdoor roaches are covered on all of our service plans. German roaches need a dedicated treatment, which we'll explain after your free inspection.