Hardwood floors need constant care and management. Besides keeping it free from fungi, algae moss, moisture, UV radiation, and cracks, you also need to keep it safe from powder-post beetles. Powder post beetles are one of the most aggravating problems of all wood-destroying insect infestations that may need whole furniture replacement if not treated early. Therefore, many people want to know How to get rid of powder post beetles.
Borate-containing pesticide is one of the easiest and most effective methods to fight off powder post beetles. However, it may need multiple applications to eliminate them. Contrastingly you can also connect with fumigation services in your locality to fumigate your hardwood floor and furniture.
Powder wood beetle infestation can be fast and destructive. So, you must quickly choose the proper method to eliminate them from your furniture. However, the effectiveness of pesticides and fumigation depends on your wooden thickness. In this article, I will provide the perfect and most effective solution for eliminating these nasty wood-destroying insects. So, if youโre wondering how to get rid of powder post beetles in hardwood floors, keep reading.
How To Get Rid Of Powder Post Beetles In Hardwood Floors?
Having confirmed a powder post beetle infestation on your hardwood flooring through the most obvious markers- round holes and fine powdery sawdust, itโs time to treat the affected area. The following are the best methods to get rid of powder post beetles. So, letโs have a look.
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Borate Containing Pesticides:
One of the best ways to get rid of powder post beetles on your hardwood flooring is by using a pesticide that contains โborate.โ Borate-containing pesticides penetrate and kill the wood-boring pests inside the hardwood floor. It also kills off the beetles entering or exiting the wood floorโs surface.
The pesticide also attacks the larvae inside the wood, thus preventing them from causing any further damage.
How To Eliminate Powder Post Beetles From Hardwood Floors Step-By-Step Guide:
You must follow the suitable insecticides method to get effective results. Otherwise, you will see a short-term result finding powder post beetles returning after some time. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to quickly and effectively get rid of powder post beetles in hardwood floors
- First, properly mix the product as per the manufacturerโs instructions. Youโll find these instructions on the label of the product. The product must be diluted with water since it comes in a concentrated formula
- To apply the mixture, you can spray, brush, or roll it on the surface of the wood. Apply enough solution to ensure it penetrates deep inside the wood.
Considering hardwood floors are often finished, itโs advisable to sand the affected surfaces first for the treatment to be effective. You can refinish it later.
A single application of any pesticide treatment may not be enough to get rid of powder post beetles on your hardwood floors completely. Since most wood boring powder post beetlesโ life cycles range from three months to one year, more than a few applications may be needed. Reapplication may also be necessary if you notice new holes long after the first treatments. This may imply that some larvae must still be inside the wood.
Another important thing worth noting is that since the floor may be dried, the solution may not penetrate properly. You may end up missing a lot of larvae and adult beetles.
You wonโt need to vacate the house during treatment. This means you can get the job done at any time. The only time you may be required to move out temporarily is when you call in professional fumigation services
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Pros And Cons Of Using Borate Pesticides:
Pros:
- Borate pesticide is not very costly.
- It remains for as long as the timber does. It does not flow out once the fluid is absorbed in the wood.
- It gives a permanent solution to remove powder post beetles in cracks and crevices, and lofts due to the wood thickness of these parts.
- Excellent for untreated wooden objects without finishes that are not located outside.
Cons:
- For the pesticide to enter the wood, you must scrape off the finish before application if the wood has one.
- The complexity of effectively treating active beetles depends on the thickness of the wood.
- The insects are not immediately killed during the extended treatment phase.
Fumigation:
If a large part of your hardwood floors is highly infested with powder post beetles, you might consider hiring professional pest control services.
A pest control company will likely fumigate your floor with potent pesticides and equipment. Fumigation is a powerful method as it can eliminate powder post beetles at any stage of development. However, it only kills the currently active beetles, not the sperms.
During a fumigation, youโll be required to move out of your home temporarily, as the pesticide fumes can be dangerous for your health and your family.
NB: The fumigation must be performed by a certified pest control professional. Also, itโs crucial to ensure that the pesticides or chemicals used to get rid of powder post beetles from your hardwood floors do not leave any residue behind. You wouldnโt want your family or pets to get sick from the pesticide residues. It could quickly become a severe health hazard.
Look for the best and most affordable chemical cleansers on the market, especially for getting rid of those pesky Powder post beetles. It should be fast-acting and potent, helping you eliminate any beetle infestation in days and giving you peace of mind that your home will be safe and beetle-free within a week.
How To Get Rid Of Powder Post Beetles In Hardwood Floor- Bottom Line
Together with termites, powder post beetles are some of the most destructive insects. The damage they cause can efficiently run into thousands of dollars.
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Hardwood floors are expensive to install. With a severe powder post-beetle infestation, you may end up replacing the furniture, which may end up costing you a lot of money.
Using a borate-based pesticide is one of the best ways of eliminating powder post beetles on hardwood floors. Hopefully, youโve now learned how to get rid of powder post beetles in hardwood floors.
