Is Your Yule Log Infested?

This time of year, many people bring wood into their homes for fires and decorations. Not only could those pieces be infested, but so could the wood in the structure of your home and yard.

Wood infesting beetles are prevalent in Virginia and can cause major damage to homes and yards. There are many different types of these beetles that call Richmond home. Learn more about them and how to protect your property.

What Do Wood Infesting Beetles Look Like?

How Can I Tell If My Wood Is Infested?

How Can I Deal With Wood Infesting Beetles?

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What Do Wood Infesting Beetles Look Like?

Virginia is a great place for wood infesting beetles to make their home, and they certainly do. We have several common types of these beetles in the Richmond area, including the Powderpost Beetle (pictured above), the Ambrosia Beetle and the Emerald Ash Borer. We also play host to many other types of wood damaging beetles.

As there are many varieties, the looks of each type of beetle can vary. In general, they are usually shades of black or brown with hard wing covers. They can be quite small (a fraction of an inch) to large (over an inch long). They have six legs and antennae, though some species have unique features, such as snouts, humps or bumps. More important than the individual appearance is being able to determine if you have an infestation in your wood.

How Can I Tell If My Wood Is Infested?

Wood infesting beetles will tunnel inside wood, leaving clean-edged circular holes. As they tunnel, the wood dust will accumulate beneath the infested areas, leaving a powdery dust.

You may also be able to see the wood crumbling or make a hollowed-out sound when tapped. Floorboards that are weakening may be infested. In more substantial infestations, you'll be able to see visible tunnels, discoloration, or blisters on the wood's surface.

Seeing live or dead beetles near windows, trees, or other wooden areas in your home or yard are a pretty big indication of a potential problem. You may also hear tapping or clicking sounds coming from inside the infested wood, especially at night.

How Can I Deal With Wood Infesting Beetles?

Given the damage that wood infesting beetles can cause, it's important to both be proactive and react quickly when finding evidence of these creatures. Because different varieties of beetles prefer different types of wood, no wooden structure is really safe. Subflooring, hardwood flooring, interior trim (such as baseboards, sills and trim around windows or doors), joists and beams are all especially subject to attack from these beetles. Clearly, weakening of these structures can lead to significant danger and reconstruction costs. Furniture, ladders, trees, and most any other wooden item may also be susceptible.

Sanded and varnished wood is less attractive to beetles because it's harder to find cracks or holes to penetrate. Keeping wood sealed and maintained will help prevent infestations. Keeping wood siding painted and replacing failing boards, siding, or fencing will also deter infestations. Remove fallen or cut wood from your property that shows signs of beetle activity.

Maintain a professional pest control barrier around your home, and employ seasonal pest control measures in your yard. In the event of an infestation, make sure to contact a pest professional immediately and begin the process of staving off further damage.

Don't forget we're always here to help or answer questions. Call us today!

For even more information on local Virginia pests, check out our pest library and other blog posts