Insect That Eat Wood: All You Need to Know – A Quick Guide

Wood-eating insects can cause serious damage to homes, furniture, and even trees. These troublesome pests may go unnoticed for a long time, leading to extensive damage and costly repairs. Understanding the different types of wood-eating insects and their habits can help homeowners and property owners identify and control potential infestations.

One common wood-eating insect is the Bostrichid Powderpost Beetle, which can attack both hardwood and softwood materials. Another type of destructive insect is the Red Oak Borer, which targets oak and maple trees.

To effectively manage these insects, it’s essential to recognize the early signs of infestation, such as small holes in wooden structures and sawdust-like powder. Implementing preventative measures, such as sealing cracks and using treatments, can help to minimize the risk of future infestations.

Types of Wood-Eating Insects

Termites

Termites are one of the most well-known wood-eating insects. They can cause extensive damage to wooden structures, and are often found in homes, trees, and outdoor furniture. There are several species of termites, including destructive termites like Formosan termites.

• Features:
  • Wings
  • Antennae
  • Social insects

Carpenter Ants

Carpenter ants, unlike termites, do not actually eat wood. Instead, they excavate wood to create nests for their colonies. They can cause structural damage, especially in moist wood.

• Features:
  • Winged adults
  • Antennae
  • Larger than other ants

Comparison of Termites and Carpenter Ants

Wood-Boring Beetles

Wood-boring beetles, like the powderpost beetle and deathwatch beetle, can cause significant damage to wooden structures and trees. These beetles lay their eggs in wood, and their larvae then bore through the wood, feeding on it.

• Features:
  • Antennae
  • Boring larvae
  • Varied adult forms

Carpenter Bees

Carpenter bees are similar to bumble bees, but they burrow into wood to create nesting sites. They do not eat wood, but their burrowing activity can cause cosmetic damage to wooden structures.

• Features:
  • Similar to bumble bees
  • Burrows in wood
  • Does not eat wood

Wood Wasps and Horntails

Wood wasps and horntails are another group of insects that can cause damage to wood. They lay their eggs in bark, and the larvae then burrow into the wood, feeding on it. These are not as destructive as some other wood-eating insects, but can still cause issues in trees and wooden structures.

• Features:
  • Stingless
  • Similar in size to bees
  • Lay eggs in bark

Signs of Wood-Eating Insect Infestations

Tunnels and Galleries

Wood-eating insects like powderpost beetles and termites create tunnels and galleries. These are:

• Tunnels: Passageways where insects move through the wood
• Galleries: Chambers in the wood where they feed, lay eggs, and grow

These structures are signs of infestation, especially if combined with other indicators such as sawdust or exit holes.

Sawdust and Frass

Insect activity often produces sawdust-like material and frass. These are:

• Sawdust: Fine wood particles caused by the insects boring into the wood
• Frass: Fecal matter left behind by wood-eating insects

Look for piles of sawdust and frass near wood surfaces or furniture as evidence of an infestation.

Exit Holes

Exit holes are small openings that insects create when they leave the wood. They can be found in various sizes, depending on the insect:

• Powderpost beetles: Tiny exit holes, about 1/16 inch in diameter
• Termites: Larger exit holes, roughly 1/8 inch in diameter

In general, more exit holes indicate a more severe infestation.

Mud Tubes

Mud tubes are a sign of subterranean termites. These termites build mud tubes to:

• Protect themselves from predators and dehydration
• Maintain a moist and dark environment

The tubes can be found on foundations, walls, and other structures. Look for these tubes in damp areas near wood and soil.

Swarm and Nests

Some wood-eating insects, like termites and wood-boring beetles, create nests and swarm during certain seasons. Identifying these characteristics can help determine the type of infestation:

Examine the area for nests and swarm activity, which can help diagnose the specific type of infestation.

Prevention and Control Methods

Reducing Moisture

• Ensure proper ventilation in your home to reduce humidity
• Fix any leakage or plumbing issues immediately

By controlling moisture levels, you can prevent the growth of fungus and rotting wood that attracts wood-boring insects such as Bostrichid Powderpost Beetles.

Proper Storage of Firewood

• Store firewood away from your home and off the ground
• Cover firewood with a tarp to protect it from rain

Proper storage prevents infestations and makes it less likely for insects like Long-horned Beetles to enter your home.

Keeping Trees and Plants Healthy

• Regularly prune and trim trees or plants
• Inspect them for insect activity or damage

Healthy trees and plants are less susceptible to wood-boring insects’ attacks. Maintaining their health reduces the chances of infestations.

Regular Inspections and Maintenance

• Check wooden structures for signs of insect activity
• Repair or replace damaged wood promptly

Regular inspections help you detect and address any infestations early, preventing extensive damage.

Using Insecticides and Treatments

• Use diatomaceous earth as a natural treatment
• Fumigate infested wood or apply woodworm treatment

Insecticides and treatments can help control existing infestations. Be sure to follow the instructions for safe and effective use.

Comparison Table: Diatomaceous Earth vs. Fumigation

By following these prevention and control methods, you can protect your home from wood-destroying insects and maintain the integrity of your wooden structures.

Handling and Repairing Wood Damage

Assessing Structural Damage

When dealing with wood-destroying insects like subterranean termites and wood-boring beetles, it’s important to first assess the extent of structural damage in buildings:

• Check floors, beams, and structural timbers for signs of damage
• Identify rotten wood and woodworm damage in both softwoods and hardwoods

Using Filler and Sealants

Once the damage has been assessed, repairs may involve using filler and sealants:

• Use filler for smaller damage or non-structural areas
• Sealants can help prevent further damage and maintain structural integrity

Examples:

• Epoxy-based wood fillers suitable for both interior and exterior repairs
• Polyurethane sealants to fill gaps and protect against moisture

Replacing Damaged Wood

In cases of extensive damage, it may be necessary to replace damaged wood:

• Replace structural timbers like joists and beams if they have lost their integrity
• Consider treating new wood with wood preservative chemicals to prevent future damage

Maintaining Treated Wood

After repairing or replacing damaged wood, proper maintenance is crucial:

• Regularly inspect wood for signs of new damage or infestations
• Ensure appropriate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and rot
• Paint or seal treated wood, as some insects prefer weathered or unpainted wood