HOUSTON – Cockroaches rank among the most persistent household pests, with recent data showing they cause problems in nearly 63% of American homes. Professional pest control expert Angelo Molinas shares proven strategies to keep these unwanted visitors out of your living space.
Door gaps: Your home’s first line of defense
The Problem: Light visible under or around exterior doors signals an open invitation to roaches.
The Solution:
- Install weather stripping around all exterior doors
- Ensures complete seal when door is closed
- Available at major hardware stores
- DIY-friendly installation
Foundation weep holes: Hidden entry points
The Problem: Unprotected weep holes in your foundation provide easy access for roaches and rodents.
The Solution:
- Use quarter-inch hardware cloth mesh
- Cut to size for each weep hole
- Insert mesh securely into openings
- Blocks pests while maintaining proper ventilation
Under-sink plumbing: The silent gateway
The Problem: Gaps around pipes entering walls create direct pathways for roaches into your home.
The Solution:
- Apply expanding insulation foam
- Fill gaps completely around pipes
- Creates permanent seal
- Prevents pest entry through wall voids
Drain maintenance: Eliminate roach attractions
The Problem: Dirty drains provide food sources and moisture that attract roaches.
The Solution:
- Pour vinegar or bleach down drains regularly/Angelo recommends once every two weeks in the bathroom sink, shower and kitchen sinks
- Plug drains when not in use
- Include shower drains in maintenance routine
- Removes organic matter that attracts pests
Professional tips for emergency situations
When encountering live roaches, Molinas recommends:
- Use wasp spray instead of traditional roach sprays
- Provides 15-foot spray distance
- Allows safer, more effective control
- Keeps you at a comfortable distance
Prevention checklist
âś“ Inspect exterior doors for light gaps
âś“ Install weather stripping where needed
âś“ Check foundation weep holes
âś“ Seal plumbing entry points
âś“ Maintain clean drains
âś“ Keep pest control supplies accessible
