In Hawaii, roaches are common, and it can be difficult to keep them out of your space. Even if your kitchen is clean, they can find a haven in your garage and, from there, start showing up in your house. Effective roach control has to cover your whole home, garage included, so implement these steps.

How to Keep Roaches Out of the Garage

1. Clean & Organize

A dirty, cluttered floor provides food and cover for these insects. Clean out your whole garage and organize the contents. Get your belongings up off the floor with shelving and wall hooks, and store everything in durable plastic bins instead of cardboard, which can let roaches in at the seams. Sweep the floor regularly.

2. Remove Food & Water Sources

Roaches need water, so address any moisture that puddles on the floor or soaks the walls. Fix any leaky pipes. Wipe up spills as soon as they appear.

Also, make sure there's no accessible food for roaches in your garage. Even pet food should be kept in a sealed container.

3. Remove Entrances

Roaches can squeeze in through tiny cracks, so you need to seal off the garage as thoroughly as possible. Caulk around the windows. Add a rubber sealing strip to the bottom of the garage door and the door that leads to your home. Examine the walls for holes and cracks, including gaps around the pipes and cables that enter your home.

On the outside of the house, clear away plants and brush that touch the walls to keep bugs from crawling on them and finding a way in.

If you already have an infestation or if you want to put down baits as a precaution, call Hilo Termite & Pest Control. Serving the Big Island, this exterminator specializes in termites and cockroaches and has over 50 years of history in the community. Call them at (808) 935-8301 to make an appointment for roach control, or learn more about what they offer online.