Got a Roach Problem? Here's What to Do

10. Get to know your cockroaches

There are thousands of species of cockroaches in the world, but you will most likely deal with only a handful of them. The German cockroach is the most prevalent species in North America. Dark brown with thin antennae, adults measure about 5/8" long. American cockroaches are reddish-brown and can grow up to 1 1/2" long. Your home could also play host to the Oriental cockroach, a dark brown or black species that prefers a wet habitat. The brown-banded roach prefers drier conditions and will feast on bookbinding glues, soaps, or wallpaper paste.