Lyctid Powder-Post Beetles

Lyctids attack only the sapwood of hardwoods with large of hardwoods with large pores: for example, oak, hickory, ash, walnut, pecan, and many tropical hardwoods. They reinfest seasoned wood until it disintegrates.The presence of small piles of fine flour-like wood powder (frass) on or under the wood is the most obvious sign of infestation.damage is severe, the sapwood may be completely converted to frass within a few years and held in only by a very thin veneer of surface wood with beetle exit holes. The amount of damage depends on the level of starch in the wood.

Where do they infest?

Infestations are normally limited to hardwood paneling, trim, furniture, and flooring.

Bostrichid Powder-Post Beetles

Most bostrichids attack hardwoods, but a few species attack softwoods. They rarely attack and reinfest seasoned wood.The first signs of infestation are circular entry holes for the egg tunnels made by the females. The exit holes made by adults are simi-lar, but are usually filled with frass. The frass is meal-like and contains no pellets. It is tightly packed in the tunnels and does not sift out of the wood easily.ter. If damage is extreme, the sapwood may be completely consumed.

Where do they infest?

Bostrichids rarely cause significant damage in framing lumber and primarily affect individual pieces of hardwood flooring or trim.

Treatment or Control of Powder-Post Beetles

Replacement of structurally weakened members is usually the most economical and effec-tive control method.However, one can also attempt to suppress infestations with surface sprays or paintbrush applications. Fumigation can also be considered but as a last resort and only if active infestation is widespread and causing significant damage. If you see any signs of infestation in your home or building give CMC Termite Control services a call and we can help!