Silverfish

What are silverfish?

Silverfish are small insects with a long, slender, tear-drop shaped flat body. They measure 1/2 to 3/4 of an inch in length. These insects get their name from their silvery, dark gray scales, which can appear shimmery as it moves across floors and surfaces in an almost fish-like fashion.

Why do I have them?

Silverfish must have humidity to survive. They like the moist, warm areas of our homes and are typically found in kitchen cupboards, basements, laundry rooms, attics and under bathroom sinks. They also like dark places and can often be found active at night or in dark places during the daytime. Unfortunately, silverfish do not hibernate so they can be active all year round. Food sources for silverfish can be anything that contains starch or polysaccharides.  Common items containing these substances are: sugar, human hair, dandruff, photos, paper, glue (especially wallpaper paste, which they eat after biting a small hole in the paper) and book bindings.  Silverfish also eat cotton and linen. 

Are they dangerous?

Silverfish do not bite or sting, nor are they associated with any diseases. They are simply considered a nuisance pest by their presence and their ability to damage personal items and wallpaper.

How do I get rid of silverfish?

Because silverfish are nocturnal and can hide in a variety of areas of your home, they can be difficult to control. A ChemTec pest professional will design a customized program to control silverfish that fits the specific needs of your property, with the goal of eliminating all of these nuisance pests.

Can I do it myself?

Silverfish are not a pest many homeowners have much success eliminating on their own because of their quick, elusive nature. Many do-it-yourself remedies to rid your property of silverfish simply do not work as the materials they use are not effective. Remember – if misused or mixed improperly, do-it-yourself pesticides can be very dangerous to people, pets or plants.

Is the treatment safe?

The pest professionals at ChemTec Pest Control will first confirm the presence of silverfish in your home or business and then create a treatment plan that will eliminate your pest problem quickly and in an environmentally responsible manner. Before any treatments begin, our inspectors will consult with you regarding your children, pets and gardens and based on your current situation they will then customize a treatment plan specifically for you.

How soon can you get here?

ChemTec Pest Control is committed to helping you as soon as possible. In most cases, we can respond the same or very next day.

What is the guarantee?

Our guarantee is simple: if you are not completely satisfied, we will give you your money back. If you have a problem with the pest after our services, just call us and we will come back to re-treat for the pest at no additional charge within the warranty period. We want all of our customers to be completely satisfied with our services and we will always work towards that goal. Please visit Our Guarantee page for more information.

How can I prevent this in the future?

Many pest problems can be difficult to prevent so many of our customers choose a continuous Protection Program to help guard against future silverfish infestations.

Where does ChemTec Pest Control service?

ChemTec provides service throughout Bergen, Essex, Hudson, Morris, Passaic, Somerset, Sussex and Union Counties in New Jersey. We also provide service to Rockland and Orange Counties in New York.