Powder Post Beetles
Powderpost beetles. These destructive pests show evidence of their presence by the small exit holes, compare to a push pin hole, and by the presence of frass, or a powdery like sawdust falling from a hole or void. These beetles can occur in new or old homes, but are most commonly found in older homes built with field dried timber and with high air moisture. Activity levels are driven by humidity level of wood and temperature. The good news is, exposed untreated, unvarnished or unpainted timbers can be treated with a boric acid material sprayed onto the wood, which acts as a stomach toxicant for the larva (or destructive) stage. The humidity can then be addressed with a high efficiency dehumidifier.