Eastern PA I had seen old evidence of p p beetles in the past now I think they are active again. Any suggestions?

Question

Guest

Eastern PA I had seen old evidence of p p beetles in the past now I think they are active again. Any suggestions?

I have evidence of old infestation on the frames of my doors to the attic. There are holes and power residue on the frames. I am concerned that there is new infestation under the wood and possibly the wood supports of my home. What would you suggest I do. Should I remove the wood and look underneath or let a professional do it. Can it make the beetle move more into the house if I disturbe the wood?
My home is built in 1896 it is a carpenters Gothic. We have soft red pine floors and doors probably the door moldings too. I am really worry about further infestation.
I have been noticing cracks in my plaster and wonder if that could be from the infestation.
Any help with some guideance would be appreciated.
Thank you,

Status: Open Feb 10, 2014 - 04:54 AM

General Help

Comments (0) | New Comment

Do you have the same question? Follow this Question

Report it

1answer

Answer

RonDawson

Feb 10, 2014 - 05:30 PM

What kind of wood are the frames made of? If everything is made of red pine, then it is not Powder Post Beetles, as they only infest hard woods like oak, mahogany, etc. Also, please describe exactly what the residue looks like. Is it fine and flour like, coarse like coffee grounds, or what does it look like?

Old holes in trim and moldings will look dark and oxidized. New holes will look like freshly cut wood and be new looking. Also you can fill in old holes and wait for new holes to appear to help determine the extent of the infestation.

Disturbing the wood will have no effect on the beetles. Don't worry about that. Cracks in plaster have nothing to do with PP beetles. It is basically small exit holes, frass (debris) and damage from the larvae inside the wood that you have to be concerned about.

Let me know. Ron

Browse by Topic