What are some pests you would instantly recognize in and around your Conroe home? Most people know how to identify pests like mice, mosquitoes, ants, and cockroaches. That said, if we were to ask you what a silverfish looks like, would you be able to describe one? If your answer is that you think they look like silverfish, we would just call you lucky. All jokes aside, silverfish are problematic in our area and are always looking for new homes to invade. Here are some things you should know to help you better understand these pests and give you some prevention tips to keep them out of your living areas.
What Are Silverfish?
Silverfish are nocturnal insects that have silver, fish-like bodies and three bristletails. These pests also have a pair of straight antennae that protrude from their head. You are most likely to find a silverfish crawling through your carpet or on your furniture, clothing, or other fabric-based items around your home. One thing these pests love is moisture and warmth. They find these things inside places like laundry rooms and attics. If you leave dirty dishes out, silverfish will be drawn to them as used dishes are usually covered with tasty treats. These pests are also attracted to dirty countertops, unprotected trash bins, and open containers of food.
Are Silverfish Dangerous?
Silverfish are not dangerous pests. They are not capable of biting or stinging and do not spread dangerous diseases. What these pests are known for is damaging fabrics and contaminating food. If you have noticed holes in your clothing, drapes, or other fabric-based items, they could be there because of these pests. Silverfish will also chew up carpeting.
How Silverfish Get Into Homes
Your home’s exterior may not be as sealed as you think. Most older homes have cracks, gaps, and holes that make them susceptible to pest invasions. These entry points are most commonly found inside foundational blocks, around window/door frames, and through the damaged siding. When silverfish are looking to invade, they use these weak spots. Another way silverfish get inside is by hitchhiking on clothing and other fabric-based items.
Some Prevention Tips For Silverfish
To prevent silverfish from invading your Conroe home, you have to do two things: eliminate entry points and reduce attractants. To do this, here are some practical prevention tips to use.
- Identify and fill in holes, cracks, and gaps in your home’s exterior foundation using a caulking gun or liquid cement.
- Fill in spacing around window/door frames using a caulking gun.
- Inspect door/window screens, weatherstripping, and door sweeps to ensure they are in good condition.
- Eliminate sources of water build-up in and around your home.
- Make sure your pipes and fixtures are not leaking.
- Use a dehumidifier indoors to keep moisture to a minimum.
- Store leftover food away properly and wash your dishes and clean out your sinks regularly.
The Best Control Tip For Silverfish
Keeping up with DIY pest prevention is not easy. If you are looking for a fast, effective, and affordable solution to silverfish and other area pests, look no further than Chase Pest Control. Our crew of dedicated technicians has been handling invasive pests for a while now and are more than prepared to help you with your current issues. When you hire us we will implement advanced pest control strategies in and around your Conroe home. We will then monitor conditions, schedule re-service visits, and establish a long-term home pest control plan to keep pests out of your living spaces. Contact us today to learn more about our services.