What Is A Silverfish?

Silverfish are both annoying and destructive when they infest your home or business. If you are dealing with a silverfish infestation, it is important for you to get professional help from the experts at Premium Termite & Pest Control. Most over-the-counter treatments are ineffective over time because they kill individual insects rather than eliminating the entire population of the infestation. Here is what you need to know about silverfish.

Identification of Silverfish

Silverfish are teardrop-shaped blue-gray bugs that are about 12 to 19 millimeters long. Some species of silverfish are white to brown-gray. These bugs have three long bristles on their rears. They are nocturnal and tend to hide in moist areas near paper such as in basements or under sinks. Silverfish also move very quickly.

Damage That They Can Cause

Silverfish have destructive feeding habits. They eat cellulose that is found in paper, books, and wallpaper. These insects also eat linens and foods that are high in carbohydrates and proteins, including cereals and wheat flour. Silverfish can chew holes in clothing and linens and damage books, wallpaper and other papers.

Signs That You Have A Silverfish Problem

Since silverfish molt, you may find empty shell casings that are left behind. You may find silverfish in damp, dark areas under your sink or in your basement. Silverfish may be found in bathtubs or sinks. Other signs of a silverfish infestation include small holes that have been chewed in clothing or wallpaper along with yellowish stains that the bugs leave behind on fabric.

Preventing Silverfish

You can take some preventative measures to keep silverfish from taking up residence in your home. Because they love humidity, using a dehumidifier in your home may keep them at bay. You’ll also want to eliminate any sources of excess moisture such as leaky pipes. It is important to keep all of your counters wiped down and clean, and you should also make certain to store pantry items in tightly sealed containers. Finally, regularly vacuum all of the crevices and cracks in your home using a narrow-tipped vacuum hose.

If you believe that you have a silverfish infestation in your home, you will likely need to get professional help to rid your home of the problem. In order to eliminate the infestation, you will need to treat both the adults as well as their eggs and nests. The professionals at Premium Termite & Pest Control can help to identify where the nests are. They can complete an individualized plan to help rid your home of the problem and also to keep silverfish from returning. Call Premium Termite & Pest Control for help with all of your pest control needs.