What is this bug and should I be concerned?

Question

I see these guys crawling around. What are they and are they here to destroy my house and cost me money and waste my time?

Answer 1

It's a woodlouse.

Mostly an outdoor bug, generally beneficial, but may bother some plants.

They are generally not a big deal in houses, although not pretty. Wikipedia comments

Woodlice can also invade homes en masse in search of moisture and their presence can indicate dampness problems. They are not generally regarded as a serious household pest as they do not spread disease and do not damage sound wood or structures.

(When I was a kid, we called them potato bugs.)

Answer 2

It's a Pill Bug, though around me they're called Potato Bugs...don't eat or swallow them, unless you need protein. They roll up in a ball when you pound on them with your enormously giant finger as you thunderously chuckle at their pain & panic (not everyone likes you). Actually, they're very helpful in most circumstances.

They like soft, moist, "your house is going to fall down" rotting wood. I'm kidding about any imminent collapse, as far as I know. But, they're an indication that something somewhere that shouldn't be getting wet, is starting to decay or has been decaying for a long time.

Maybe this isn't a new house and you're not the original owner. Someone may have hired a guy or gal to just spray poison and did nothing else. These bugs also indicate that you have a tiny if not a mammoth gaping highway hole somewhere, since they've decided to have a party at your place with all of their friends.

Check everything you can on the outside. Like gutters, downspouts, caulk, very short overlaps of plastic siding, light fixtures, doors & windows, hose bibs & the neighboring dog's habits.

Answer 3

That insect is a woodlouse also known as "boat builder", "cheesy bob", "pill bug" and many other local names. They seek mould and rotting, damp wood . Not generally harmful and most bug sprays will get rid of them. I even have a cat who likes to eat them (and YES, he is still healthy ! )