Heat: Why Cockroaches Get Faster and Multiply in Summer
American cockroaches are highly mobile creatures—they can crawl up walls and scurry across ceilings. But climbing requires energy. When it gets cold outside, roaches slow down because their muscles stiffen and they lose mobility. When temperatures rise, their muscles become more flexible and move faster. Think of it like stretching a rubber band: one that’s been frozen is stiff and likely to snap, but a warm rubber band stretches easily. Summer cockroaches are like athletes warming up before a race—they’re ready to move.
Heat also speeds up their reproductive cycle. Eggs hatch faster, young roaches develop more quickly, and populations grow rapidly. More roaches mean bigger problems.
Moisture: The Role of Humidity in American Cockroach Survival
Cockroaches need moisture; American cockroaches have a higher moisture requirement than many other species. They constantly lose moisture, so humidity helps keep them from drying out. On dry days, these roaches spend much time searching for water sources. But during humid summer days, they don’t have to worry about moisture—they can focus on the two things they do best: eating and multiplying.
Too Much of a Good Thing
While American cockroaches love warmth, extremely hot days can drive them to seek cooler, shaded areas. That’s often why more of them enter homes during heat waves. High heat increases their moisture loss, so they seek refuge inside where it’s cooler and more humid.
Similarly, summer storms and heavy rains can flood their underground homes. During these times, American cockroaches are commonly forced out of drains and sewers, pushing them into residential and commercial buildings, where they seek higher ground.
What Should You Do About Cockroaches in the Summer?
If you haven’t noticed cockroaches inside your home yet, now is the time to take action to prevent them from coming in. Here are some simple steps to help keep summer roaches outdoors:
- Remove stacked branches, firewood, or other wood debris near your home.
- Move trash bins away from exterior walls and remove trash regularly to avoid attracting roaches.
- Eliminate any objects that collect rainwater.
- Clear away plant debris from landscaping or gardening.
- Store compost piles away from your house.
- Keep grass trimmed near your foundation and landscaping.
- Remove stored items and clutter from around your home’s exterior.
- Seal gaps and cracks in your home’s exterior.
- Replace worn-out weatherstripping and door sweeps.
- Repair damaged window and door screens.
- Remove cardboard stacks indoors and outdoors.
- Keep your home’s interior clean.
- Fix plumbing leaks both inside and outside your home.
- Use a dehumidifier to control indoor humidity.
- Always use bathroom fans during showers or baths to vent moisture.
- Store key foods in sealed containers to prevent attracting roaches.
Taking these steps can reduce cockroach activity near your home and make it harder for them to get inside. Consider a professional pest control service plan like the Acre Quarterly Plan for even better protection against these vile pests. It provides affordable, hassle-free coverage that targets American cockroaches and many other pests, helping you spend less time worrying about pests and more time enjoying your home.
What to Do if You See a Cockroach in Your Home
American cockroaches are expert hiders. If you spot one, there are likely many more you don’t see. They stay hidden in cracks, crevices, and voids during the day and come out mostly at night to feed quickly before retreating.
If you’re concerned about an American cockroach infestation, it's a good idea to schedule a pest inspection with Acre Pest Control. Our trained specialists can find signs of activity and recommend the best pest treatment option for your home.
You don’t have to let summer cockroaches take over your space. At the first sign of trouble, contact Acre Pest Control—your local pest control experts in Pelham, Hoover, and Greater Birmingham. We’ll guide you through the process from inspection to treatment, so you can rest easy knowing your home is protected.
