Seeing large bees hovering around your deck or wooden structures in Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky? Those are likely carpenter bees. They’re most noticeable in spring and early summer as they search for nesting spots in untreated wood. These bees don’t form colonies and are rarely aggressive, yet their boring activity can create costly structural problems. Males can’t sting, and females do so only when threatened, but their damage is unmistakable.

Action Pest Control provides expert solutions for carpenter bee infestations. Our trained professionals detect activity early, apply targeted treatments, and help prevent future damage to your property.

What Kind of Damage Do Carpenter Bees Cause?

Carpenter bees that return annually to drill into your wood can cause significant weakening of your property. What looks like minor damage at first can quickly worsen. This kind of structural decline can cause:

Distinct Entry Holes: Carpenter bee entry holes are typically round and about the size of a nickel. These circular openings are most often found in rafters, beneath decks, or along other wooden surfaces where bees begin their tunnels.
Visible Wood Damage: Carpenter bee activity often leaves behind small dashes, dots, or shallow grooves in the wood. Unlike termites, they don’t conceal their work, making these exposed markings one of the easiest ways to spot an infestation.
Compromised Support Beams: When carpenter bees bore into load-bearing beams, they gradually weaken the structure’s integrity. Left untreated, this can lead to warping or even partial collapse, though early signs of activity usually appear before major damage occurs.
Damaged Steps: Wooden steps that become home to carpenter bees may weaken over time as the insects tunnel deeper into the wood. Eventually, the steps can break or give way, creating a safety hazard similar to that of unstable railings.
Weakened Railings: Porch and balcony railings are common targets for carpenter bees. As they burrow into the wood, the railings lose strength and stability, increasing the risk of collapse and potential injury if the damage goes unrepaired.

Carpenter bees can cause serious damage if left unchecked, so reach out to a stinging insect exterminator at the first sign of activity. Our skilled team uses the latest pest control technology to remove these insects safely and protect your home from future infestations. We’re here and ready to help whenever you need us.

How Can You Recognize Carpenter Bees?

Carpenter bees are often mistaken for bumblebees due to their similar size and appearance, including fuzzy black heads and robust, rounded bodies. A key difference is in the abdomen. Carpenter bees have smooth, shiny abdomens, while bumblebees are covered in hair from head to tail.

These bees are drawn to untreated or exposed wood, making decks, fences, porches, and outbuildings prime nesting spots. They bore straight into the wood before following the grain, forming tunnels that can remain hidden for a long time. This hidden damage can gradually weaken the wood, often going unnoticed until serious problems appear.

Unlike other stinging insects, carpenter bees don’t build paper nests or burrow in the ground. They drill directly into wooden structures, which can compromise the stability of your home if left untreated. Early detection is key to preventing extensive damage.

Carpenter Bee Activity: What to Look For

Homeowners should be aware of carpenter bee activity. These bees create noticeable holes and markings in wood, which are clear signs of their presence. Detecting these early can prevent costly repairs. Common warning signs include:

Internal Sounds: Faint scratching or buzzing noises coming from inside the wood, indicating that bees are actively nesting within.
Visible Holes: Round openings about half an inch in diameter appearing in untreated wood around your home, often at the start of carpenter bee activity.
Fan-Shaped Marks: Semi-circular or fan-like patterns surrounding the hole entrances are a clear indicator that carpenter bees are present.
Wood Shavings: Sawdust or small wood fragments collecting on the ground or nearby surfaces beneath the holes, left behind from tunneling.

Carpenter Bees and Their Potential for Greater Damage

The impact of carpenter bees extends beyond the obvious tunnels and surface marks on wood. Inside their nests, growing larvae create faint scratching noises. You may not hear it, but it draws attention from local birds and other animals.

Woodpeckers, in search of a meal, often target these larvae, enlarging the holes and causing further structural damage. A minor carpenter bee problem can quickly escalate if left unchecked. Prompt treatment can protect your home from both the bees and the secondary damage caused by predators.

Prevent Bee Damage in Your Home with Action Pest Control

The best way to protect your home from carpenter bees and the predators they draw is professional treatment. Indiana, Illinois and Kentucky homeowners often face these persistent insects, and ignoring the problem can result in extensive damage. At Action Pest Control, our skilled technicians identify infestations, treat affected areas, and prevent future issues.

Call Action Pest Control now to discover how our experts can protect your home from carpenter bees and other pests.