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Wood Destroyers
Termites, powderpost beetles, old house borers, carpenter bees
Overview
Wood-destroying organisms (WDOs) cause billions of dollars in structural damage annually in the US. Termites are the most destructive, but powderpost beetles, old house borers, and carpenter bees also cause significant damage. Early detection through annual inspection is critical.
Common Species
How to Confirm
Mud tubes on foundation walls or piers (subterranean termites)
Hard six-sided fecal pellets below wood (drywood termites)
Fine powdery frass accumulating below wood (powderpost beetles)
Round entry holes in wood and hovering large bees (carpenter bees)
Rasping/ticking sounds in walls in summer (old house borer larvae)
DIY vs. Call a Pro
Prevention, monitoring, and accessible borate treatments are good DIY tasks. Anything involving active subterranean termite infestations, slab structures, or widespread structural damage requires a licensed professional.