Powder post beetles are a pervasive problem in New England and present a real risk to the integrity of wooden structures in homes and businesses. Signs of powder post beetle infestation include small, round exit holes in the wood (about the size of a pencil tip) and a fine, flour-like powder dripping from the exit holes on a vertical board or a small mound of powder on a horizontal board.
Ultimately, the best way to identify a powder post beetle infestation is by having an experienced exterminator come out and assess the situation. A powder post beetles extermination from an experienced company like Ford’s Hometown Services, located in Worcester, MA, is essential as these pests can cause significant damage to properties and furniture.
- Identification: Do you notice small holes in the wood around your property in; logs, stumps, stored firewood, during the spring and summer? Powder post beetles need a specific percentage of moisture in a board to survive.
- Extermination: the pest professional will treat all raw, unpainted wood in the area where the beetle evidence was observed.
- Prevention: Long-term, exercise caution, inspect any new wooden objects carefully, and watch for signs of powder post beetles. Do not store firewood inside of the home. Moisture plays a big role in controlling these pests. In moist basements, running a dehumidifier would be a big help.
Identify Powder Post Beetles
The first step in getting rid of powder post beetles is identifying them correctly. These tiny insects – between 1/8” and 1/4” long – come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, and red. They have oblong-shaped bodies with long antennae and six legs, as well as wings that allow them to fly short distances.
Powder post beetles are known to practice “seasonal attacks,” which make them a nuisance in need of powder post beetles extermination during spring and summer months.
Exterminate Powder Post Beetles
Once identified, powder post beetle extermination typically requires a complete broadcast spraying of all raw , unpainted floor boards, sills, joists, support posts etc. on and around all beetle evidence, with a material that will impregnate the wood and stop the life cycle of powder post beetles. Powder post beetles extermination is most successful when done in early spring since many of these beetles will go into diapause (or suspended development) at other times during the year.
Preventative Measures for Powder Post Beetles
Finally, it's important to take steps to ensure that these insects won't come back after powder post beetles extermination has been completed. Remember no fire wood inside your home, drying out areas, if possible, to keep moisture levels low, by running dehumidifiers. It's also helpful to inspect furniture regularly for signs of infestation, such as sawdust or holes in the wood surface. Additionally, regular vacuuming can help keep these pests away as well since their larvae feed on dust particles.
If you think you may have an infestation of these insects in your house, business, or yard, contact professionals — like Ford’s Hometown Services — right away who can help you with powder post beetles extermination quickly and safely! Get an instant quote today!
