Types of Bugs that Live Inside Walls

Bugs are small creatures that can cause big problems. For many of us, bugs are a nuisance that we encounter on a daily basis, whether it's a pesky fly buzzing around our heads or an ant invasion in our kitchen. But bugs are not just annoying - they can also pose a threat to our health and well-being.

When you think of bugs that live inside walls, you might imagine small, creepy crawly creatures that make your skin crawl. The truth is, there are actually many different types of bugs that can make their home inside the walls of your house. Some of these bugs are harmless, while others can cause damage to your home and become a nuisance to deal with.

Termites

Termites are tiny insects that can cause big problems for homeowners. These pests can infest and destroy wood structures, causing thousands of dollars in damage. In fact, termites cause billions of dollars in property damage each year in the United States alone.

Termites are social insects that live in colonies and work together to build their nests and find food. They feed on cellulose, which is found in wood and other plant materials. This is why they are often found in and around homes, as they can easily feed on the wooden structures.

One of the biggest challenges with termites is that they are often difficult to detect. They can go unnoticed for years, silently eating away at the wood in your home. By the time you see visible signs of termites, such as mud tubes or wood damage, the infestation may already be extensive.

There are several types of termites, including subterranean termites, drywood termites, and dampwood termites. Each type has its own preferences for habitat and food sources. Subterranean termites, for example, live underground and build mud tubes to access wood structures. Drywood termites, on the other hand, do not require contact with the ground and can infest dry wood in your home.

Cockroaches

Cockroaches are perhaps one of the most despised insects on the planet. These pesky pests have been around for hundreds of millions of years and are known for their resilience and ability to survive in almost any environment. Despite their reputation as dirty creatures, cockroaches actually play an important role in the ecosystem as decomposers, helping to break down organic matter and recycling nutrients back into the soil.

Cockroaches are commonly found in homes and buildings, where they can be a major nuisance. They are attracted to warmth, moisture, and food sources, making kitchens and bathrooms the perfect breeding grounds for these unwelcome guests. Cockroaches can spread disease by contaminating food and surfaces with their saliva, feces, and shed skins. They can also trigger allergies and asthma attacks in some individuals.

There are many different species of cockroaches, but the most common types found in homes are the German cockroach, American cockroach, and Oriental cockroach. These pests are capable of reproducing quickly, with females able to lay hundreds of eggs in their lifetime. This rapid reproduction rate can make it difficult to control a cockroach infestation once it takes hold. Signs of a cockroach infestation include droppings, musty odors, and shed skins.

Ants

Ants may be small, but they are mighty creatures that play a crucial role in our ecosystem. With over 12,000 species worldwide, ants are found on every continent except Antarctica. These social insects work together in colonies to build intricate underground nests, forage for food, and care for their queen and offspring.

One remarkable aspect of ants is their incredible strength. Despite their tiny size, ants have the ability to lift objects many times their weight. This strength is due to their muscle power and the way they distribute the weight of the object they are carrying.

Ants are also known for their unwavering persistence and determination. They work tirelessly to gather food, defend their territory, and protect their queen and colony. Ant colonies are incredibly organized, with different types of ants taking on specific roles such as workers, soldiers, and the queen.

Signs of an ant infestation include visible ant trails, small piles of sawdust, and rustling noises coming from walls.

Silverfish

Silverfish are strange little creatures that are often found lurking in dark and damp areas of the home. These small, wingless insects are silver in color and have a distinct teardrop-shaped body. Despite their name, silverfish are not actually fish at all – they are insects that belong to the order Thysanura.

Silverfish are known for their quick and darting movements, as well as their ability to move backwards as easily as they move forward. They are commonly found in basements, bathrooms, kitchens, and other humid areas where they can find a steady food source. Silverfish feed on a variety of materials, including paper, glue, clothing, and even human hair and dandruff.

While silverfish are not harmful to humans in terms of biting or spreading diseases, they can cause damage to books, clothing, and other items in the home. They are also just generally creepy to have around, as their quick movements and odd appearance can be quite unsettling.

Signs of a silverfish infestation include silverfish sightings, yellow stains on fabric, and chewed-up paper.

Earwigs

Earwigs are nocturnal insects that have pincer-like appendages at the end of their abdomens. These pests are often found in damp areas, such as basements and bathrooms, but they can also inhabit walls. Earwigs are not harmful to humans, but they can be a nuisance if they invade living spaces. Signs of an earwig infestation include droppings, small holes in fabric, and nocturnal activity.

Bed bugs

Bed bugs are a common household pest that can cause a lot of stress and frustration for homeowners. These tiny insects are skilled hitchhikers and can easily make their way into your home through luggage, clothing, or second-hand furniture. Once they are in your home, bed bugs can quickly multiply and spread throughout various rooms, making it difficult to get rid of them.

One of the main signs of a bed bug infestation is waking up with itchy, red bites on your body. These bites are usually found on areas of the body that are exposed while sleeping, such as the face, neck, arms, and hands. Some people may not have any visible reaction to bed bug bites, while others may have severe allergic reactions.

How to Get Rid of Bugs that Live Inside Walls

Identify the Type of Bug

The first step in getting rid of bugs living inside your walls is to identify what type of bug you are dealing with. Different types of bugs require different treatment methods, so it's important to know exactly what you're up against. Common bugs that may infest walls include cockroaches, ants, termites, and bed bugs.

Seal Entry Points

Once you have identified the type of bug, the next step is to seal any potential entry points that the bugs may be using to gain access to your walls. This could include cracks in the walls, gaps around doors and windows, or holes in the foundation. By sealing off these entry points, you can prevent bugs from getting inside your walls in the first place.

Use Insecticides

Insecticides can be an effective way to get rid of bugs that are already living inside your walls. Be sure to choose an insecticide that is specifically formulated for the type of bug you are dealing with, and follow the instructions carefully. It's important to note that insecticides can be harmful to pets and humans, so be sure to take precautions when using them.

Hire a Professional Exterminator

If your bug infestation is particularly severe or persistent, you may want to consider hiring a professional exterminator to help you get rid of the bugs. Exterminators have the knowledge, expertise, and equipment to effectively eliminate bugs from your walls and prevent them from coming back.

Take control of the situation and contact Affordable Pest and Mosquito Solutions today to schedule a consultation. With their reliable and affordable services, you can finally say goodbye to those unwanted pests and enjoy a bug-free living environment once again. Give us a call at (810) 820-6429 and reclaim your home from unwanted intruders!

Prevent Future Infestations

Once you have successfully gotten rid of the bugs living inside your walls, it's important to take steps to prevent future infestations. This could include keeping your home clean and free of clutter, sealing off entry points, and regularly inspecting your walls for signs of infestation.