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Commercial
Stinging Insects | Posted: February 20, 2025

How to Get Rid of Carpenter Bees

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By: Dodson Brothers

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How to Get Rid of Carpenter Bees

Table Of Contents

Carpenter bees may look like their harmless honey bee doppelgangers, but the truth is, they can wreak havoc on your home’s wooden structures. These large, black-and-yellow bees bore into wood to create nests, often causing structural damage over time. If left unchecked, carpenter bees can compromise the integrity of decks, porches, siding, eaves, and other wooden surfaces.

So, how do you get rid of carpenter bees? Let’s take a closer look.

The Dangers of Carpenter Bee Infestations

Unlike termites, carpenter bees don’t consume wood. Instead, they drill round holes in untreated wood sources with remarkable precision to lay eggs. When left untreated, repeated nesting and tunneling weaken wooden structures. Additionally, carpenter bee larvae attract woodpeckers, which can cause even more extensive damage as they peck at the wood to feed on the developing bees.

Aside from structural damage, carpenter bees can also be aggressive when they feel threatened. While males lack stingers, they are territorial and may dive-bomb or hover aggressively near humans. Though less aggressive, female carpenter bees have stingers and can deliver a painful sting if provoked.

DIY Removal: Why It’s Risky

Many homeowners attempt to eliminate carpenter bees, and, to a certain extent, may see some positive results. But before you pick up your tennis rackets and store-bought insecticides, know that DIY bee removal methods are often ineffective and can even lead to more significant problems including:

  1. Incomplete Elimination – Sprays may kill some bees, but a new generation will emerge later if eggs and larvae remain inside the tunnels.
  2. Increased Damage – If you seal off an active nest without adequately treating it, the bees may create new exit tunnels, causing further damage.
  3. Aggressive Behavior – Attempting to handle carpenter bees yourself can provoke them, increasing your chances of getting stung.
  4. Potential for Misdirected Treatment – If misapplied, some pesticides can harm beneficial pollinators like bumblebees.

Rather than risking injury or worsening the problem, it’s best to call a professional pest control service.

Professional Carpenter Bee Treatment

At Dodson Pest Control, we have the expertise and tools to handle carpenter bee infestations safely and effectively. Here’s how our professionals can help:

Thorough Inspection

Our team will identify active nests and assess the extent of the damage with a complimentary inspection. Our inspectors have the necessary protective equipment to safely evaluate your property and propose a treatment plan when necessary.

Safe and Targeted Treatment

We use specialized treatments that eliminate adult bees and larvae while minimizing risk to environmentally beneficial pollinators.

Proper Sealing

After ensuring the infestation is gone, we seal off entry points with the correct materials to deter future nesting.

Preventative Measures

We can apply protective coatings to exposed wood, discouraging future carpenter bee activity.

Preventing Future Infestations

Once you’ve dealt with a carpenter bee infestation, taking steps to prevent their return is crucial. Our team will provide you with recommendations to pest-proof your house or building. Some strategies we suggest may include:

  • Installing Bee Traps – Strategically placing professional-grade carpenter bee traps near problem areas can help capture bees before they nest.
  • Using Hardwood for Construction – Softer woods like pine and cedar are more susceptible to carpenter bee activity. Consider using harder materials for any wooden structures you build in the future.
  • Scheduling Regular Inspections – A professional pest control service can detect signs of carpenter bee activity before they become a real problem.

 

Learn More about Carpenter Bee Prevention

Don’t Wait—Schedule Your Free Inspection Today.

Carpenter bees may start as a minor nuisance, but if ignored, they can quickly lead to costly repairs. DIY solutions often fall short, and improper handling can put you at risk. The safest, most effective way to get rid of carpenter bees is by enlisting professional help.

At Dodson Pest Control, we specialize in carpenter bee removal and prevention. With more than 8070 years in business, we use tried and true methods to manage carpenter bee infestations without targeting helpful pollinators.

Schedule a free inspection now!
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Dodson Pest Control

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3712 Campbell Avenue
Lynchburg, VA 24501

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