Got a silverfish problem? Please don’t panic! These pests may be unnerving, but you can still get an upper hand. We’re breaking down the treatment process step-by-step so you can confidently deal with any silverfish problem.
First, we explain how to identify the presence of silverfish. Then, we explain their dangers and attractant factors. Removing these attractants can quickly discourage invaders – but it won’t get rid of established infestations.
Need an immediate solution to your silverfish-infested home? Our approach to silverfish control in Charlotte can deliver a pest-free home. We’re breaking it down at the end of this guide so you can see our approach to treatment firsthand.
First, Know How To Identify Silverfish In Your Home
There are two major reasons why you should know how to identify silverfish. For one thing, you need a positive identification to address the problem. For another, you must identify attractant factors so you can remedy them in the future (more on this later).
In any case, you must begin with the basics of identification. Look for:
- A half to one inch long insect with a silvery-gray exoskeleton
- A teardrop-shaped pest with three rear bristles and two long antennae
- A bug living in moist, dark, or damp area with quick, fish-like movements
If you identify a pest that matches these characteristics, there’s a good chance you have silverfish in your home.
Next, Understand Why Silverfish Are Problematic
Silverfish don’t really look like dangerous pests, and the good news is that they technically aren’t. Apart from their somewhat unfamiliar appearances, they cannot bite, sting, or otherwise attack humans.
What silverfish can do is cause property damage, and unfortunately, lots of it. Since they’re particularly attracted to starchy items, they can eat anything from sugar and cereal to paper, plaster, carpet, and clothes.
This is why you should know the difference between silverfish activity and silverfish infestations. It’s not uncommon to spot one or two invaders, but multiple pests scurrying around the house indicate a more severe issue.
But what attracts silverfish to homes in the first place?
Let’s take a closer look below.
Then, Remove Factors That Attract Silverfish
At this point, you know your home has some level of silverfish activity. You just don’t know what brought them inside (or what compels them to stick around).
The truth is, silverfish don’t need much to be happy – easily accessible food, water, and shelter are everything they need. So, if you can identify and remove these factors from your home, you can prevent future invaders from coming inside.
Start with silverfish prevention steps like the following:
- Seal cracks and gaps around the house to prevent silverfish from getting inside (shelter control).
- Reduce household moisture levels with desiccant bags and dehumidifiers (water control).
- Store leftovers, dry goods, and sugars and cereals in airtight containers (food control).
Notice we mentioned ‘future invaders’ and not ‘active infestations.’ If you currently have a silverfish problem, you need the help of Go-Forth Home Services.
Finally, Call A Professional To Completely Eliminate The Problem
Silverfish control isn’t necessarily easy, but it’s perfectly simple with Go-Forth Home Services. We handle the whole process from identification to elimination – the only thing you have to do is call our local office.
We have more than 60 years of hands-on experience controlling silverfish activity in Charlotte. As soon as you spot a potential problem, you can get in touch to set up a visit.
Ready to get started with silverfish pest control in Charlotte? Just submit an online contact form to request a free quote today.