What are the Most Common Bugs Found in Basements?
Basements have a reputation for many things: They're spooky, dark, and, in most cases, have a lot of bugs. While the first two may be up for debate, unfortunately, the latter is often true. Having a bug problem in your basement can feel like an impossible battle, but fortunately, there are some common culprits and a few common remedies to eliminate these unwanted pests.
Why Basements Attract Bugs
Basements are a common place for bugs to live and thrive due to their dark and damp environments. Due to the lack of proper ventilation, the moisture creates an ideal breeding ground for many insects. Basement bugs are often attracted to damp environments and decaying organic matter, which is common underground. Basements also often contain a lot of stored food and other items that bugs are attracted to, making them a hotspot for pest infestations.
Signs of a Bug Infestation in Your Basement
Signs of a bug infestation in the basement may include droppings, shed skins, unexplained bites or stings, and nests or webs. If you notice any of these signs, you should take action immediately to prevent the infestation from spreading.
Other signs of a bug infestation may include:
- Tiny insects crawling on walls or floors.
- Dead insects in corners or along baseboards.
- A musty or unpleasant odor.
If you suspect a bug infestation in your basement, it’s crucial to contact a pest control professional to assess the situation and provide a proper treatment plan.
The Most Common Bugs Found in Basements
There are many basement bugs, including common pests like termites, cockroaches, spiders, and other insects. Here are some of the most common basement bugs:
Cellar Spiders
Cellar spiders, also known as daddy-long-legs, are some of the most common basement pests. These spiders are generally harmless to humans, but their webs can be a nuisance, and the spiders themselves are a bit creepy-looking.
Spider control varies from home to home and area to area. From brown recluse spider infestations to cellar spiders, Solve Pest Pros' basement spider control service is here to help!
Silverfish
Another common basement pest is the silverfish. Silverfish are small, wingless insects that are shiny and silver in color. They are attracted to damp places and can often be found near sinks, drains, and laundry machines. Silverfish typically eat paper, so if you have silverfish in your basement, be sure to keep any important papers stored in a dry, safe place.
Silverfish can reproduce quickly and contaminate food, highlighting the importance of professional pest control to manage infestations effectively. Silverfish control is also available to homeowners with Solve Pest Pros!
Millipedes
Another pest that loves basements is millipedes. Millipedes, sometimes called "thousand leggers," are long, segmented creatures ranging from brown to black. They usually enter homes through small cracks and crevices in the foundation and often come out at night to feed on organic matter such as leaves and mulch.
If you have millipedes in your basement, remove any food sources they may be attracted to. Solve’s millipede exterminators can also help get rid of these pests.
Mice
One of the most feared and dreaded basement pests is mice. Mice are small rodents that can squeeze through very small openings and get into your home. Once they're inside, they’ll often build nests and reproduce quickly. Mice are attracted to basements due to the cool temperatures and the shelter they offer.
If you have a mouse problem in your basement, seal any cracks or openings they may be using to get inside. And reach out to Solve for expert mice removal.
Cockroaches
Another common basement pest is the cockroach. Cockroaches are large, dark-colored insects that can often be found near food and water sources. They are nearly impossible to kill, as they are known as the most resilient pest.
If you have cockroaches in your basement, keep all food and water sources tightly sealed and look into professional cockroach control with Solve Pest Pros.
Prevention and Control Measures
Preventing and controlling bug infestations in basements requires good sanitation practices, adequate ventilation, and effective pest control services. Regular cleaning and maintenance are key for avoiding and controlling bug infestations in basements. Some prevention measures include:
- Keeping the basement clean and dry.
- Remove any overgrown vegetation or shrubs surrounding your house.
- Sealing foundation cracks or crevices with a silicone-based caulk, steel wool, or a combination of both.
- Make sure all windows and doors are secure.
- Eliminate any potential basement bug hiding spots by getting rid of clutter and organizing storage units.
- Using tightly sealed containers to store food and other items.
- Using a dehumidifier to prevent and reduce moisture build-up
By following these prevention measures, you can help keep your basement pest-free and prevent bug infestations from occurring. However, if you do experience a bug infestation, it’s essential to contact a pest control professional to provide a proper treatment plan and eliminate the infestation.
Professional Pest Control for Pest Infestations
The best way to prevent pests in your basement is to contact your local pest control company, Solve Pest Pros. When it comes to pest control, it's important to hire professionals who will go above and beyond your expectations. Our technicians speak with each customer personally. We want everyone to feel comfortable about what is happening so that they feel safe and confident that pests can be managed effectively. Our exterminators will listen to your concerns and answer any questions you may have.
Scheduling a service with us is easy! We look forward to helping you get your basement pest-free!
