Carpenter bees may be small, but they can cause some big damage to your home.
Unlike termites, which eat wood, carpenter bees bore into it, creating tunnels that can weaken the structural integrity of your home. Like termites, the damage caused by carpenter bees often isn’t covered by homeowners’ insurance, either, since it occurs over a long period of time and isn’t considered a sudden loss.
That’s the bad news – but the good news is that you don’t just have to put up with it. There are simple steps you can take to avoid disastrous consequences later on – it’s all about knowing how to get rid of carpenter bees on your own, and when to call in the pros. Let’s take a closer look.
What Are Carpenter Bees?
Carpenter bees are large, black, and yellow insects that somewhat resemble bumblebees.
However, unlike bumblebees, they have smooth, shiny abdomens. Also, these bees are solitary creatures – they don’t live in colonies.
Instead, female carpenter bees bore holes into wood to create nests, while males guard the nest but do not sting.
If you suspect carpenter bees, look for perfectly round holes about 1/2 inch in diameter on wooden surfaces. You might also notice sawdust beneath these holes and hear faint buzzing sounds. Carpenter bees often target untreated or weathered wood, so pay close attention to areas like eaves, decks, and fences.
As mentioned earlier, carpenter bees can cause extensive damage over time. The tunnels they create can weaken wooden structures, leading to costly repairs. Not only that, but the holes they bore can invite other pests, such as woodpeckers, which can further damage your property.
Why Carpenter Bees Are Attracted to Your Home
In some cases, figuring out why you have carpenter bees might be something of a mystery – but in other instances, it’s pretty easy to weed out the cause.
For one, carpenter bees are particularly drawn to softwoods like pine, cedar, and redwood. If your home has untreated or weathered wood, it’s especially vulnerable. They tend to avoid hardwoods, so consider this when choosing materials for repairs or new construction projects.
Their nesting behavior also comes into play here. Female carpenter bees excavate tunnels in wood to lay their eggs. Each tunnel can be up to six inches long and consists of several chambers, each containing an egg and a ball of pollen for the larvae to feed on. Over time, these tunnels can extend further and, unfortunately, cause even more damage.
Carpenter bees are most active in the spring and early summer. This is when females are busy creating nests and laying eggs. If you notice increased activity around your home during these months, it’s a sign that you need to take action.
Preventing Carpenter Bee Infestations
Speaking of taking action, what exactly can you do to prevent these troublesome pests from setting in?
One of the most effective ways to prevent carpenter bee infestations is to treat wood surfaces. Use a combination of paint and varnish, as carpenter bees are less likely to bore into treated wood.
If you find existing carpenter bee holes, seal them with wood putty or caulk. This not only prevents bees from reusing the holes but also stops other pests from entering. Make sure to do this in the fall when you’re certain the bees have left the nest.
As we mentioned earlier, you may want to consider using hardwoods for new construction projects or repairs. Carpenter bees prefer softwoods, so opting for hardwood can make your property less attractive to them.
How to Get Rid of Carpenter Bees
There are several different natural, DIY methods that homeowners tend to rely on when it comes to getting rid of carpenter bees. Some, like citrus sprays or essential oils, may be helpful for small infestations, but chances are, you’ll need to call in the professionals for one that’s on the larger side.
For a more hands-on approach, you may be able to use a vacuum cleaner to remove carpenter bees from their holes. This method is best used in the evening when the bees are less active. Simply place the vacuum nozzle over the hole and capture the bees as they exit.
Insecticidal dust is another powerful tool for getting rid of carpenter bees. Apply the dust directly into the bee holes using a duster. The bees will come into contact with the dust as they enter and exit, eventually leading to their demise.
Liquid insecticides can also be effective. Spray the insecticide directly into the bee holes and surrounding areas. This method works well for larger infestations and offers long-lasting protection.
When to Call Pest Control in Oklahoma City for Carpenter Bees
If the natural and DIY methods described don’t work and you just can’t seem to get rid of your carpenter bee problem, it might be time to call in the professionals. At Thunder Pest Control in Oklahoma City, we specialize in dealing with carpenter bees and can offer more comprehensive solutions.
We can also help with long-term action planning, like the following:
- Regular Inspections: We’ll check for new holes or signs of activity at least once a month, especially during the spring and summer months.
- Ongoing Maintenance: Ongoing maintenance, such as treating wood surfaces and sealing holes, is also essential. We’ll show you how to keep your property well-maintained to make it less attractive to carpenter bees and other pests.
Wave Goodbye to Carpenter Bees and Wave Hello to a Pest-Free Home
Carpenter bees can cause significant damage to your home, but with the right strategies, you can get rid of them and prevent future infestations.
From natural remedies to chemical treatments and professional pest control services like Thunder Pest Control in Oklahoma City, there are plenty of options available.
Don’t wait until the damage is already done – take action today to protect your home. For more information and expert advice, contact Thunder Pest Control today.
