Best Carpenter Bees Control & Removal
Carpenter bees are large, solitary bees that bore circular holes into wood structures to create nesting tunnels. While they are pollinators, carpenter bees can cause significant structural damage to homes, decks, eaves, and wooden furniture through their persistent drilling behavior. Professional treatment protects property value while managing these wood-boring pests.
Signs of Carpenter Bees
Watch for these common warning signs in your home or property.
- Perfectly round 1/2-inch holes in wood
- Coarse sawdust beneath holes
- Yellow staining from pollen and feces
- Loud buzzing and hovering near wooden structures
- Visible bees entering and exiting holes
- Tunneling sounds from within wood
- Woodpecker damage from birds seeking larvae
- Fresh wood shavings around entry holes
- Multiple holes in same area over time
- Bees hovering territorially around structures
Carpenter Bees Prevention Tips
Proactive steps you can take to keep carpenter bees out of your home.
Paint or stain all exposed wood surfaces
Use hardwoods instead of softwoods for construction
Apply wood preservatives and sealers regularly
Install metal or vinyl siding over vulnerable wood
Screen or cover potential nesting sites
Remove old, weathered wood that attracts bees
Fill existing holes with wood putty or steel wool
Apply insecticide treatments to vulnerable wood
Use citrus oil or almond oil as natural deterrents
Install physical barriers like hardware cloth
Regular inspection and maintenance of wooden structures
Professional preventive treatment applications
Professional Carpenter Bees Treatment Methods
Licensed exterminators use proven techniques to eliminate carpenter bees infestations.
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Get Free QuotesFrequently Asked Questions About Carpenter Bees
How do I identify carpenter bee damage?
Look for perfectly round 1/2-inch holes in wood, coarse sawdust beneath holes, yellow staining, and loud buzzing sounds. Fresh wood shavings and hovering bees are also clear indicators of active carpenter bee activity.
Do carpenter bees cause structural damage?
Yes, carpenter bees can cause significant structural damage over time by boring tunnels into wood. Multiple generations using the same sites can weaken wooden structures and reduce property values.
How can I prevent carpenter bee damage?
Paint or stain all exposed wood, use hardwoods instead of softwoods, apply wood preservatives regularly, and consider professional preventive treatments before nesting season begins.
When are carpenter bees most active?
Carpenter bees are most active from April through October, with peak nesting activity in late spring (May-June). They emerge from overwintering sites in early spring and remain active through fall.
Are DIY carpenter bee treatments effective?
DIY treatments often provide only temporary relief. Professional treatments are more effective because they use commercial-grade products, proper application techniques, and include follow-up services to ensure complete control.
How much does professional carpenter bee control cost?
Professional carpenter bee control typically costs $150-$400 per treatment, with annual programs ranging from $300-$800. The investment protects against thousands of dollars in potential structural damage.
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