Water damage doesn’t just rot the interior of a building or a home, it also attracts pests. These pests help break down the structural integrity of your property. Water buildup inside your home creates a great environment for termites, parasites, and even mold and bacteria to grow. This can be very devastating as it can lead to expensive repairs in the long run and can also pose health threats. This article will give you information about the types of pests related to water damage and some ways to prevent them. 

Four Types of Pests Related to Water Damage 

Excess moisture is your issue if you have chronic pest problems. Issues on moisture and humidity are easy to overlook, and they’ll bring in pests just as reliably as food sources. Take a look at these four pests that are easily attracted to the moisture in your home:

1. Cockroaches

The German cockroach (Blattella germanica) is the most common roach species infesting homes in the United States. You will often see them around the water heater in your basement or your kitchen. They have bodies that are flat which allow them to hide easily under tight spaces. Pipes that are dripping inside your home can give them more than enough water.

2. Earwigs

The European earwig (Forficula auricularia) is also a common pest in North America. The first thing you’ll notice about earwigs are the big pincers on their butts. Most likely you’ll find them near floor drains, bathrooms, or under rugs or furniture. Earwigs often fall into homes through low cracks or splits and fissures around the basement level. 

3. Centipedes

House centipedes (Scutigera coleoptrata) are quick and often move carelessly. Unlike many pests, house centipedes don’t have a moisture-preserving cuticle. They have cuticles that can preserve their body moisture effectively for long periods. They need to be rehydrated regularly, or their bodies will dry out and die. Therefore, house centipedes are very attracted to moist, humid parts of your home. 

4. Silverfish

Silverfish, or Lepisma saccharina, are tiny insects with no wings and have a distinct silver coloration. They prefer hot, wet places. They attempt to stay in hidden areas as long as possible. You may find them beneath boxes or furniture. You will probably encounter them in your basement, bathrooms, or kitchen. Silverfish will dry out and die if they don’t keep their bodies moist. Naturally, they are attracted to humid areas of your home. 

How To Avoid Pest Infestation

Water damage is already a big problem to deal with. Don’t allow pests to tag along and cause more problems. So, take some steps to prevent these pests from infesting your home. Here are some ways to avoid pests infestation. 

• Clean your home regularly. These pests love to thrive in dirty and unhygienic places. So, one of the best ways to prevent pests from infesting your home is to keep it clean and tidy.
• Secure your home and eliminate any chances of a flooded basement. Seal any cracks or holes on your foundation. An expandable epoxy can be used to seal all cracks or tiny holes. This material can stretch from the inside wall to the outside, swell up, and contract even if the temperature changes.
• Install a sump pump and make sure to test it regularly to prevent water from accumulating inside your basement. 
• If you live in an area with a high risk of flooding, consider installing a french drain. A french drain is very efficient in preventing floodwater from seeping inside your home. 
• Clean gutters regularly and make sure that they are from any debris. Good working gutters ensures that water flows freely away from your home. 
•  Have a water restoration expert assess your home and point out the specific areas that require work. 

Professional Water Damage Cleanup and Restoration Services

No one wants unwelcomed pests to crawl and roll inside their home. So, if your home suffers from water damage, you need to act fast to limit the damage and prevent pests infestation. 

If you need help with your water damage issues, don’t hesitate to contact a professional from Superior Restoration. We offer water damage cleanup and restoration services. Contact our local office today Water Damage Ontario.