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
✓ Inspect exterior doors for light gaps
✓ Install weather stripping where needed
✓ Check foundation weep holes
✓ Seal plumbing entry points
✓ Maintain clean drains
✓ Keep pest control supplies accessible
