Buzz Off, Carpenter Bees! Protecting Your Deck This Spring

As spring arrives and homeowners begin to enjoy their outdoor spaces, a less welcome visitor often emerges: the carpenter bee. These industrious insects, while important pollinators, can cause significant damage to wooden structures, particularly decks, porches, and fences. Understanding their behavior and implementing preventative measures is crucial for protecting your property.

Carpenter bees are easily identifiable by their large size and shiny, black abdomens. Unlike honeybees, they don’t live in hives but rather bore into wood to create individual nests for their offspring. They prefer untreated, softwoods like cedar, pine, and redwood, making decks a prime target.

Identifying Carpenter Bee Damage:

• Round Entrance Holes: Look for perfectly circular holes, about the size of a dime, on the underside of deck railings, posts, and floorboards.
• Sawdust Piles: Small piles of sawdust beneath the holes are a telltale sign of active carpenter bee activity.
• Buzzing Sounds: You may hear a distinct buzzing sound near the wooden structures as the bees work on their nests.

Preventative Measures:

1. Treat the Wood:
   • Applying a sealant or stain to your deck can deter carpenter bees. Choose a product specifically designed for outdoor use and reapply it regularly.
   • Pressure-treated lumber is less attractive to carpenter bees due to the chemical treatment.
2. Fill Existing Holes:
   • If you find existing holes, fill them with wood putty or steel wool. Then, seal the area with paint or stain.
   • Consider placing a small amount of insecticide dust in the hole before sealing it, to kill any remaining larvae. However, use caution and follow product instructions carefully.
3. Maintain Your Deck:
   • Regularly inspect your deck for signs of damage and address any issues promptly.
   • Keep your deck clean and free of debris, which can attract carpenter bees.
4. Consider Natural Deterrents:
   • Citrus scents are known to repel carpenter bees. Try placing citrus peels or spraying citrus-based essential oils around your deck.
   • Some people say that painting the underside of the deck a light color can deter them.
5. Professional Help:
   • If you’re dealing with a severe infestation, consider contacting a pest control professional. They can provide effective treatments and preventative measures.

Important Note:

• Carpenter bees are important pollinators, so it’s best to avoid killing them unless they are posing a significant threat to your property.
• When using any chemical pesticides, always follow the manufacturers instructions, and take precautions to protect pets, and children.

By taking these proactive steps, you can minimize the risk of carpenter bee damage and enjoy your deck throughout the spring and summer months.