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As summer turns to fall and the temperatures begin to drop in Chapel Hill, NC, many homeowners start preparing their homes for cooler weather. While sealing windows and pulling out cozy blankets might be on your to-do list, there’s another important step you shouldn’t overlook: pest-proofing your home. When the weather cools, roaches start looking for warm, sheltered places with easy access to food and water—and your home could be at the top of their list.
At Scott’s Turf & Pest Services, we understand just how frustrating and unsettling a roach infestation can be. Fortunately, with a few proactive steps, you can dramatically reduce your chances of sharing your space with these unwelcome pests this fall and winter.
Why Roaches Invade Homes in the Fall
Roaches are cold-blooded insects, which means they don’t survive well in chilly temperatures. As the outdoor environment becomes less hospitable, they begin searching for warmth. Unfortunately, homes in Chapel Hill offer everything they need to thrive:
- Consistent warmth
- Accessible food and water sources
- Dark, hidden areas for nesting
- Cracks and crevices for entry
Once they get inside, roaches can quickly multiply and become difficult to eliminate without professional help.
Common Entry Points for Roaches
To keep roaches out, it’s important to understand how they get in. Here are a few common entry points to look out for:
- Gaps around doors and windows
- Cracks in the foundation or siding
- Utility openings (pipes, dryer vents, etc.)
- Grocery bags, boxes, or furniture brought in from infested areas
- Open drains or improperly sealed plumbing access points
Roaches are small and incredibly resourceful—they only need a tiny opening to squeeze through.
Signs of a Roach Problem
Even if you haven’t seen a live roach yet, there could be early signs of an infestation. Here’s what to watch for:
- Droppings that resemble black pepper or coffee grounds
- Musty or oily odors in enclosed areas
- Egg casings (oval-shaped and brown) under sinks or behind appliances
- Smear marks on walls or floors near water sources
- Increased activity at night (roaches are nocturnal)
If you notice any of these signs, it’s time to take action.
Roach Prevention Tips for Chapel Hill Homes
The best defense against roaches is a strong offense. Here are some tried-and-true tips to help you keep roaches out of your home this fall:
Use weatherstripping, caulk, and expanding foam to close off gaps and cracks where roaches could enter. Pay special attention to areas around baseboards, windows, doors, and utility openings.
Food is one of the biggest attractions for roaches. Keep your kitchen clean by:
- Wiping down countertops daily
- Sweeping and vacuuming crumbs
- Storing food in sealed containers
- Cleaning under and behind appliances
- Taking out the trash regularly
Don’t forget to clean up pet food and water bowls at night, too.
Roaches need water to survive, so reducing moisture can make your home less appealing. Fix leaking faucets, use dehumidifiers in damp areas, and make sure bathrooms and laundry rooms are well-ventilated.
Cardboard boxes, paper bags, and piles of clothing provide excellent hiding spots for roaches. Keep storage areas organized and dry, and avoid stacking items directly on the floor.
For added protection, consider placing roach bait stations or glue traps in common hiding spots like under sinks, behind the refrigerator, and in dark corners. These tools can help monitor activity and reduce small populations.
When to Call a Professional
While prevention is key, roaches are notoriously difficult to eliminate once they’ve taken hold. Their ability to hide in small crevices, reproduce quickly, and develop resistance to store-bought products makes DIY treatment ineffective in many cases.
That’s where Scott’s Turf & Pest Services comes in. We offer expert inspections, targeted treatments, and long-term prevention strategies to eliminate roaches from your Chapel Hill home—safely and efficiently.
Here’s why Chapel Hill homeowners trust Scott’s Turf & Pest Services:
- Thorough inspections: We find where roaches are hiding and how they’re getting in.
- Custom treatment plans: We tailor our approach to your home’s layout, infestation level, and specific needs.
- Safe, effective products: We use family- and pet-safe solutions that get real results.
- Ongoing protection: Our recurring pest control services help keep roaches (and other pests) from coming back.
Keep Your Home Roach-Free This Fall
Fall should be a season of comfort—not one filled with pest problems. By taking a few simple precautions and partnering with trusted experts like Scott’s Turf & Pest Services, you can enjoy a warm, clean, and roach-free home all season long.
If you’ve seen signs of roaches, don’t wait until the problem spreads. Contact Scott’s Turf & Pest Services today to schedule your inspection, and let us help you take back control of your home.