Is a Suspended Ceiling a Good Hiding Place for Bed Bugs?

The homeless shelter I work in has a 20 bunk (40 bed) overnight dorm. I regularly use heat remediation in this area and pesticide but cannot get control. What is the possibility of the primary infestation being in the suspended ceiling?

This ceiling is of the 2X4 lay in tile with R-19 paper-backed batting for insulation. Can I bomb (with pesticide) the area between the bottom of the roof and the ceiling? I have found it difficult to try to treat by conventional pump-up spraying.

Thanks,

Paul Dwight

Editor Suggestion

Hi Paul,

Thanks for your question.

Bed bug bombs will not work. Research shows these products cause the bed bugs to scatter.

We are surprised that heat remediation is not working. If the room is properly sealed and target temperatures are met, the heat should penetrate the ceiling. Perhaps higher temperatures are needed. I'd talk to your heat remediation company for help. Another approach is to talk to a company that using freezing carbon dioxide sprays to see if that will penetrate the ceiling.

Best of luck,

Jeff