S & W Pest Management Inc : Insect Guide

Pest Guide » Occasional Pests » Powderpost Bettles:

Powderpost Beetles
Lyctidae
Color: reddish-brown to black
Legs: Six
Shape: Round
Size: 1/32" to 1/8"
Antennae: Yes, two segments
Flight: No

Powderpost beetle is a term used to describe several species of wood-boring insects. These beetles can be found in dead as well as dried and cured lumber. Damage occurs to many wood products such as rafters, joists, flooring, molding, paneling, crating, furniture, antiques, tool handles, gun stocks, fishing poles and baskets.This insect is an important threat to your home besause the can infest load bearing beams, rafters, joists and hardwood floors. Infestations develop slowly, but wood can be reinfested year after year.

Powderpost beetles will only lay their eggs on bare, unfinished wood. Wood which is painted, varnished, waxed or similarly sealed is generally safe from attack provided no unfinished surfaces are exposed.

The key to avoiding serious problems from powderpost beetles is early detection. Homeowners are much more likely to see damage than the beetles themselves. Since tunneling and development of the larvae takes place entirely below the wood surface, the only signs of infestation are the emergence holes made by the adults and the powder-like sawdust sifting from the holes.

Prevention:
Most powderpost beetles are introduced into homes in lumber or finished wood products such as furniture, paneling or flooring.

Lumber which has been improperly stored or dried should not be used, particularly if beetle exit holes are present.
Many of the most serious infestations arise from old lumber from a barn or woodpile to panel a room or build an addition. Use care when using recovered woods.
Paint or finish exposed wood surfaces. Beetles emerging from finished articles such as furniture were usually in the wood before the finish was applied. (Note: beetles emerging from finished wood can, however, reinfest by laying eggs in their own exit holes; sealing the holes prevents this possibility).

If you would like to make an appointment with S & W Pest Management, please fill out the online appointment form or call 1-877-989-BUGS.