The first wood-destroying insects that come to mind are usually termites. However, they aren’t the only insects that damage wood structures. Here are three other insects that can cause significant property damage.
Accurately Identify Wood-Destroying Insects to Take Proper Measures
One of the most common mistakes that homeowners make is treating their homes for the wrong insects. Damage from wood-destroying insects typically occurs over the course of months, and the sooner you catch it, the better. Hire a professional inspector to accurately identify what kind of pests are causing damage. Here’s a look at three common insects (besides termites) that destroy the wood in houses.
Carpenter Ants
Carpenter ants are found throughout the United States, so they’re a potential problem for most homeowners. Carpenter ants don’t feed on the wood itself. Instead, they chew and tunnel through the wood to make nests. This activity can be just as destructive as eating the wood. Getting rid of carpenter ants is a challenge because a carpenter ant colony can consist of more than 50,000 ants.
Powderpost Beetles are Common Wood-Destroying Insects
Powderpost beetles get their name because they reduce wood to a powder. These wood-destroying insects lay their larvae in the cracks of the wood. Once the larvae hatch, they feast on the wood and emerge from tiny holes as adults. Powderpost beetles are known for attacking hardwood, which is used in homes across the country.
Like carpenter ants, powderpost beetles are found throughout the United States. Wood-boring beetles are the second most destructive wood-destroying insects in the country after termites.
Carpenter Bees
Carpenter bees burrow into wood to make nests, which weakens the wood. Sometimes, homeowners can deter the bees by simply treating or painting wood structures.
Carpenter bees aren’t as destructive as carpenter ants because they don’t live in colonies, so the nests that they build in the wood are much smaller. However, a large number of bees often build nests in the same area, which can cause a lot of damage.
A WDI inspector will check for these pests and provide a report of any infestations. With this information, you can make a sound decision on how to treat and protect your home.
Bronze Star Home Inspections provides home inspection services to the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Contact us to book an appointment.