6 Ways to Protect Your Wood Structures From Carpenter Bees

A buzzing sound under the eaves or a perfect round hole in your porch rail might seem minor at first glance. But don’t ignore it: these are clear signs that carpenter bees are at work.

Unlike termites, carpenter bees don’t eat wood. Instead, they drill into it to create nests for their young. Over time, their tunneling weakens boards and invites moisture, mold, and other pests. Left unchecked, a small infestation can become an expensive structural issue.

Here are six highly effective ways to protect your home’s wooden structures from carpenter bee damage — and how Specter Pest Control can help when prevention isn’t enough.

1. Seal and Paint Exposed Wood

Carpenter bees prefer untreated, weathered wood. Stained or painted surfaces are far less attractive to them. Regular sealing or painting acts as a barrier that discourages nesting.

Focus on these vulnerable areas:

• Fascia boards and soffits

• Deck railings and supports

• Fence posts and gate beams

• Porch ceilings and trim

Paint or stain not only deters bees but also extends the life of your wood by protecting against UV damage and moisture. A well-maintained exterior sends a clear signal to pests: this wood is protected.

2. Install Bee-Resistant Wood Alternatives

When replacing parts of a deck or building new outdoor features, consider switching to materials that carpenter bees avoid. These include:

• Composite decking

• Vinyl trim or soffit panels

• Pressure-treated lumber

• Hardwoods like teak or ipe (more resistant than pine or cedar)

Modern building materials often outperform traditional lumber when it comes to resisting both pests and weather. Even replacing high-risk elements like fascia boards or decorative trim with PVC can significantly reduce carpenter bee interest.

3. Monitor for Early Signs of Activity

Catching carpenter bee activity early is key to avoiding long-term damage. Look for these signs in spring and early summer:

• Perfectly round holes (about the size of a pencil) in wood

• Piles of coarse sawdust beneath wooden structures

• Male bees hovering near eaves (they guard the nest but don’t sting)

• Yellowish stains near holes (bee excrement)

In some cases, you may even hear faint scratching or buzzing coming from inside wood. Regular inspections in early spring, especially before bees become active, help catch these problems before tunnels expand or become attractive to predators like woodpeckers.

4. Use Natural Repellents in Key Zones

Carpenter bees are sensitive to scent. Certain natural oils work as non-toxic repellents when applied to target areas.

Common options include:

• Citrus oil

• Tea tree oil

• Eucalyptus or peppermint oil

Mix with water and spray regularly around potential nesting areas. These scents won’t harm the bees but will encourage them to find another site.

Some homeowners use homemade deterrent blends that combine several essential oils with vinegar or water. Apply these sprays weekly during peak nesting season and reapply after heavy rain for best results.

5. Fill Abandoned Holes Properly

Carpenter bees may reuse or expand old tunnels from previous years. After treating or confirming inactivity, it’s essential to seal the damage.

Steps to properly fill a bee tunnel:

1. Wait until late summer or fall when nests are empty

2. Insert steel wool or a wooden dowel into the hole

3. Seal with wood filler or exterior-grade caulk

4. Paint or stain the surface to prevent re-entry

Neglecting to seal old holes creates a welcoming environment for next season’s bees. Over time, a network of intersecting tunnels can weaken structural integrity and make the area more vulnerable to weathering and pests.

6. Schedule Preventative Treatments With a Professional

Even with all the right measures, persistent carpenter bees may still return year after year. That’s where Specter Pest Control steps in.

Our carpenter bee service includes:

• Thorough inspection of decks, eaves, fences, and railings

• Targeted low-toxicity dust treatments placed inside active holes

• Monitoring and follow-up during peak season

• Guidance on sealing and wood protection to prevent return activity

Technicians also provide site-specific recommendations, from ventilation improvements to exterior lighting changes that could reduce bee traffic. We take a holistic approach that addresses both bee behavior and the conditions that attract them in the first place.

Why Carpenter Bee Damage Shouldn’t Be Ignored

A few holes may not seem serious at first, but carpenter bees can cause cumulative damage:

• Long tunnels weaken support beams and trim

• Entry holes invite rot and moisture damage

• Woodpeckers often attack infested areas to eat bee larvae

• Infestations tend to grow annually if untreated

When bees return year after year, the cumulative effect on structures can result in splintering, sagging, or complete replacement of boards. Annual inspections and preventative service can eliminate that costly cycle.

Trust Specter Pest Control for Long-Term Protection

Carpenter bees are clever and persistent. Keeping them out requires a blend of strategy, maintenance, and expertise. At Specter Pest Control, we bring all three.

Whether you’ve spotted a single bee or a full-fledged infestation, our technicians can diagnose the threat and implement a tailored solution that protects your property for seasons to come.

Call Specter Pest Control today to schedule your carpenter bee inspection and keep your woodwork secure, season after season.