Now is the time of year for hearing experts talk about the best ways to get rid of carpenter bees.
A problem in spring, these bees – larger than your average bumblebee and dark in color – burrow holes into wood. While they don’t eat it, the small holes cause structural damage over time.
The bees, however, don’t just go for any wood. The surface must be bare, and ideally, it’s an untreated softwood. To prevent these pests from getting attracted to and building nests inside your property, follow these carpenter bee control tips:
Protect the Wood
Any exposed wood must be sealed or painted over. Bees don’t like the taste of paint, so add multiple coats to create a sizeable barrier.
If you don’t want to add paint, go with a polyurethane or other similar sealant. If you choose a stain, keep in mind that bees have been known to chew through the stain to get to the raw wood. A sealant creates a clear barrier preventing this from occurring.
As you paint or seal, be sure to address all entry points – not just the surfaces. Seal or coat all edges and joints, as well as less-visible spots, such as under window sills, banisters, and railings.
Cover It
While painting and sealing are simple options, homeowners have additional choices. Some opt for aluminum sheathing, while vinyl siding over exposed wood has a similar effect. In either, keep in mind that carpenter bees can enter through holes and gaps just a quarter of an inch wide, so make sure the full area is covered and sealed.
Use Pesticides
Trying to get rid of carpenter bees on your own can be a huge challenge! Certain over-the-counter products may initially seem to help but end up not solving the problem. Before going this route you should hire a professional carpenter bee exterminator to evaluate the current infestation and what the best course of action will be. We do not recommend anything over-the-counter to solve a serious carpenter bee control issue.
Pick The Right Wood
Certain woods are more prone to carpenter bee infestations than others. Softwoods are particularly vulnerable; these include white pine, cedar, California redwoods, and Douglas firs. As well, pressure-treated hardwoods tend to repel these pests.
If you need a bee removal professional, don’t try to stop the infestation yourself. Get our trained carpenter bee removal experts involved. To discuss all possible options, contact Eliminate ‘Em for a consultation.
