How Do You Get Rid Of Boring Bees? (5 Pro Woodworker Tips)

Let’s dive deep into the world of wood, fire, and buzzing annoyances – specifically, how to tackle those pesky boring bees!

How Do You Get Rid of Boring Bees? (5 Pro Woodworker Tips)

The rhythmic hum of a chainsaw, the satisfying crack of splitting wood, the warmth of a crackling fire… these are the sounds and sensations that fuel my passion. But there’s another, less welcome, buzzing sound that can disrupt the peace: the drilling of boring bees. These industrious insects, while not aggressive, can cause significant damage to wooden structures, turning your prized lumber or even your home into a honeycomb of tunnels.

The global firewood and timber industry is a multi-billion dollar market, with projections showing continued growth as renewable energy sources gain traction. But with increased wood use comes increased vulnerability to wood-boring insects. The US alone sees billions of dollars in damage annually due to wood-boring insects, including those pesky boring bees. These bees aren’t just a nuisance; they represent a real threat to the longevity of wood structures.

But don’t despair! As a woodworker and seasoned firewood enthusiast, I’ve battled my fair share of boring bees. I’ve learned a few tricks along the way, and I’m here to share my top 5 pro tips to help you reclaim your wood and restore your peace of mind.

Before we jump into bee-battling strategies, let’s talk about noise. It’s an integral part of our craft, but it doesn’t have to be deafening.

The Hum of Creation: Managing Noise in Woodworking

One of the first things any woodworker, whether a seasoned pro or a weekend hobbyist, learns to deal with is noise. The roar of a chainsaw, the whine of a planer, the high-pitched scream of a router – it’s all part of the symphony of sawdust. But prolonged exposure to these sounds can lead to hearing loss, a risk we should all take seriously.

I remember one particularly long week spent milling logs for a timber frame project. By the end of it, I had a persistent ringing in my ears. It was a wake-up call. Since then, I’ve made hearing protection a non-negotiable part of my woodworking routine.

Data on Noise Levels in Woodworking

Studies have shown that chainsaws can produce noise levels exceeding 115 decibels (dB), while planers and routers can reach 100 dB or more. Exposure to noise levels above 85 dB for extended periods can cause permanent hearing damage. To put that in perspective, a normal conversation is around 60 dB.

Strategies for Noise Reduction

Here are a few things I’ve found helpful in reducing noise in my workshop:

Invest in Quality Hearing Protection: Earplugs and earmuffs are your first line of defense. Look for options with a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 25 dB or higher. I prefer earmuffs because they are easy to put on and take off, and they often offer better protection.
Choose Quieter Tools: When purchasing new tools, consider their noise levels. Some manufacturers are now designing tools with noise reduction features. Battery-powered tools, in general, tend to be quieter than their gas-powered counterparts.
Isolate Noisy Equipment: If possible, locate noisy equipment in a separate room or area of your workshop. This can help to contain the sound and reduce its impact on your hearing. I have a separate shed for my chainsaw milling operations.
Use Sound-Dampening Materials: Consider adding sound-dampening materials to your workshop walls and ceiling. Acoustic panels, blankets, or even heavy curtains can help to absorb sound waves and reduce reverberation.
Take Breaks: Give your ears a break from the noise by taking regular breaks from woodworking. Even a few minutes of silence can make a difference.
Maintain Your Equipment: A well-maintained tool is often a quieter tool. Make sure your blades are sharp, your bearings are lubricated, and your belts are properly tensioned.
Communicate Clearly: When working with others, establish clear communication signals. This can help to avoid misunderstandings and prevent accidents in noisy environments.

Now, with our ears protected, let’s move on to the buzzing culprits themselves: boring bees.

Understanding Your Enemy: Boring Bee Biology and Behavior

Before we can effectively combat boring bees, it’s essential to understand their biology and behavior. These aren’t your typical honeybees. They’re solitary bees, meaning they don’t live in colonies or produce honey. They are also known as carpenter bees.

Appearance: Boring bees (typically Xylocopa virginica in North America) resemble bumblebees but have a shiny, black abdomen.
Nesting Habits: The female bee bores a perfectly round hole (about ½ inch in diameter) into wood to create a nest. She then lays her eggs in individual cells within the tunnel, providing each larva with a ball of pollen and nectar.
Wood Preference: They prefer softwoods like cedar, pine, redwood, and fir, but will also attack hardwoods if they are weathered or untreated.
Damage: While they don’t eat the wood, the tunnels they create can weaken structures over time. Repeated nesting in the same area can lead to significant damage.
Life Cycle: Boring bees are most active in the spring and summer months. They overwinter as adults in their nests and emerge in the spring to mate and begin the nesting process again.

Pro Tip #1: Prevention is Key: Wood Treatment and Sealants

The best defense against boring bees is to prevent them from nesting in the first place. This involves treating and sealing your wood to make it less attractive to them.

Pressure-Treated Wood: For outdoor structures, using pressure-treated wood is a great starting point. The chemicals used in pressure treating are toxic to insects and fungi, making the wood less appealing to boring bees. However, pressure-treated wood can be expensive and may not be suitable for all projects.
Wood Sealants: Applying a high-quality wood sealant can create a barrier that prevents boring bees from accessing the wood. Look for sealants that are specifically designed for outdoor use and that contain UV inhibitors to protect the wood from sun damage.
Paints and Stains: Painting or staining your wood can also help to deter boring bees. Choose a paint or stain that is specifically designed for exterior use and that contains a mildewcide to prevent fungal growth. Solid colors are generally more effective than semi-transparent stains.
Borate Wood Preservatives: Borate-based wood preservatives are another effective option. These preservatives are non-toxic to humans and pets but are lethal to wood-boring insects. They are typically applied as a liquid and penetrate the wood to provide long-lasting protection. I’ve had great success with products like Bora-Care.
Regular Inspection: Regularly inspect your wooden structures for signs of boring bee activity. Look for small, round holes in the wood, as well as sawdust-like shavings around the holes. Early detection is key to preventing significant damage.

Case Study: A friend of mine, a skilled carpenter, built a beautiful cedar pergola in his backyard. Within a year, it was riddled with boring bee holes. He hadn’t treated the wood properly. After thoroughly cleaning the pergola and applying a borate wood preservative, the bee activity stopped, and he was able to enjoy his pergola without worry. The cost of the preservative was minimal compared to the potential cost of repairing or replacing the pergola.

Pro Tip #2: Disrupt Their Nesting Cycle: Filling Existing Holes

If you already have boring bees nesting in your wood, it’s important to disrupt their nesting cycle by filling the existing holes. This will prevent them from laying eggs and further damaging your wood.

Locate the Holes: Carefully inspect your wooden structures for boring bee holes. They are typically about ½ inch in diameter and perfectly round.
Eliminate Existing Bees: Before filling the holes, make sure that the bees are no longer active inside. You can do this by spraying a small amount of insecticide into the holes (use caution and follow the manufacturer’s instructions). Alternatively, you can use a shop vacuum to suck out any bees that are inside. I prefer the vacuum method as it avoids the use of chemicals.
Fill the Holes: Fill the holes with wood filler, caulk, or even steel wool. Make sure to pack the filler tightly into the holes to prevent the bees from re-opening them. For larger holes, you may need to use a piece of dowel rod or a small piece of wood to fill the void before applying the filler.
Sand and Paint/Stain: Once the filler has dried, sand it smooth and paint or stain it to match the surrounding wood. This will help to camouflage the repair and prevent the bees from being attracted to the area again.

Important Note: Some people suggest using expanding foam to fill the holes. While this may seem like a quick and easy solution, I advise against it. Expanding foam can trap moisture inside the wood, leading to rot. It can also be difficult to remove if you need to make repairs in the future.

Pro Tip #3: The Power of Sound: Ultrasonic Repellents

This is where things get a little more “high-tech.” Ultrasonic repellents emit high-frequency sound waves that are said to deter boring bees. While the effectiveness of these devices is still debated, some users have reported success.

How They Work: Ultrasonic repellents emit sound waves that are beyond the range of human hearing but are supposedly irritating to insects. The idea is that these sound waves will disrupt the bees’ nesting behavior and drive them away.
Placement: Place the repellents near areas where you have seen boring bee activity. Make sure that the sound waves are not obstructed by walls or other objects.
Limitations: The effectiveness of ultrasonic repellents can vary depending on the brand, the environment, and the individual bees. Some studies have shown that they have little to no effect on insect behavior.
Cost: Ultrasonic repellents range in price from around \$20 to \$100 or more.

My Experience: I’ve experimented with ultrasonic repellents in my workshop, and honestly, I haven’t seen a dramatic difference. While I can’t definitively say that they don’t work, I wouldn’t rely on them as my sole method of boring bee control. I consider them more of a supplemental measure.

Pro Tip #4: Natural Deterrents: Essential Oils and Scents

Boring bees, like many insects, are sensitive to certain scents. Using natural deterrents like essential oils can help to keep them away.

Tea Tree Oil: Tea tree oil has a strong, pungent scent that is known to repel insects. Dilute a few drops of tea tree oil in water and spray it around areas where you have seen boring bee activity.
Citrus Oils: Citrus oils, such as lemon, orange, and grapefruit, also have insect-repelling properties. Mix a few drops of citrus oil with water and spray it around your wooden structures.
Almond Oil: Some woodworkers swear by almond oil as a natural deterrent. Apply a thin coat of almond oil to your wood to help keep boring bees away.
Garlic: Garlic is another natural insect repellent. Crush a few cloves of garlic and mix them with water. Spray the mixture around your wooden structures.
Mothballs: While not exactly a “natural” solution, mothballs can be effective in deterring boring bees. Place mothballs in small containers near areas where you have seen bee activity. Be careful when using mothballs, as they contain chemicals that can be harmful to humans and pets.

Important Note: Essential oils and other natural deterrents may need to be reapplied regularly, especially after rain.

Pro Tip #5: Trapping and Relocation: A Last Resort

If all else fails, you can try trapping and relocating the boring bees. This is a more labor-intensive approach, but it can be effective in reducing the population of bees in your area.

Carpenter Bee Traps: Carpenter bee traps are designed to lure bees into a container where they cannot escape. These traps typically consist of a wooden box with a small hole drilled in the side. The bees enter the hole, thinking it leads to a nesting site, but they end up trapped inside.
DIY Traps: You can also make your own carpenter bee traps using readily available materials. There are many tutorials available online that show you how to build a simple trap using a wooden block and a plastic bottle.
Relocation: Once you have trapped the bees, you can relocate them to a different area. Choose a location that is far away from your home and other wooden structures. Release the bees in the early morning or late evening when they are less active.

Ethical Considerations: While trapping and relocating boring bees can be effective, it’s important to consider the ethical implications. These bees are important pollinators, and removing them from the environment can have negative consequences. If possible, try to use other methods of control before resorting to trapping and relocation.

Understanding Wood: A Deeper Dive

Since we’re talking about protecting wood, let’s delve a bit deeper into the material itself. Understanding the properties of different wood species is crucial for successful woodworking and firewood preparation.

Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood

This is a fundamental distinction. Green wood is freshly cut wood that still contains a high moisture content (often above 30%). Seasoned wood has been dried to a lower moisture content (typically below 20% for firewood and 6-12% for woodworking).

Green Wood: Heavier, harder to work with (especially for fine woodworking), prone to warping and cracking as it dries. It’s also more susceptible to fungal decay and insect infestation.
Seasoned Wood: Lighter, easier to work with, more stable, less prone to decay and infestation. Seasoning also increases its BTU (British Thermal Unit) value, making it a better fuel source for firewood.

Wood Species and Their Properties

The type of wood you use will significantly impact your project.

Softwoods: Pine, fir, cedar, redwood. Generally easier to work with, less dense, more absorbent. Good for construction, siding, and trim. Cedar and redwood are naturally resistant to decay and insects.
Hardwoods: Oak, maple, cherry, walnut. Denser, more durable, more resistant to wear and tear. Ideal for furniture, flooring, and cabinetry.

For firewood, the choice of wood species significantly impacts its heat output and burning characteristics.

High BTU Woods: Oak, hickory, beech, ash. These woods burn hotter and longer, making them ideal for heating homes.
Medium BTU Woods: Maple, birch, cherry. These woods provide a good balance of heat output and ease of splitting.
Low BTU Woods: Pine, fir, poplar. These woods burn quickly and produce less heat. They are better suited for kindling or starting fires.

The Science of Seasoning

Seasoning wood is all about reducing its moisture content. This can be done through air-drying or kiln-drying.

Air-Drying: The most common method. Stacking the wood in a well-ventilated area allows the air to circulate and evaporate the moisture. The drying time varies depending on the wood species, climate, and stack configuration. Generally, hardwoods require at least 6-12 months of air-drying, while softwoods may only need 3-6 months.
Kiln-Drying: A faster method that involves placing the wood in a controlled environment with heat and airflow. Kiln-drying can reduce the moisture content to the desired level in a matter of days or weeks. However, it can be more expensive than air-drying.

Case Study: I once tried to build a cherry table using wood that hadn’t been properly seasoned. The table looked beautiful at first, but within a few months, it started to warp and crack. I learned my lesson the hard way: always season your wood properly before using it in a woodworking project.

Chainsaws and Axes: The Tools of the Trade

No discussion of wood processing would be complete without mentioning the tools that make it all possible: chainsaws and axes.

Chainsaws: Power and Precision

Chainsaws are essential for felling trees, bucking logs, and limbing branches. They come in a variety of sizes and power levels, from small electric chainsaws for light-duty tasks to large gas-powered chainsaws for heavy-duty logging.

Types of Chainsaws:
- Electric Chainsaws: Quieter, lighter, and easier to maintain than gas-powered chainsaws. Ideal for small-scale tasks and homeowners.
- Gas-Powered Chainsaws: More powerful and versatile than electric chainsaws. Suitable for a wide range of tasks, from felling trees to bucking logs.
- Battery-Powered Chainsaws: Offer a good balance of power and convenience. They are quieter than gas-powered chainsaws and don’t require a power cord.
Chainsaw Safety: Chainsaws are powerful tools that can be dangerous if used improperly. Always wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection, hearing protection, gloves, and chaps. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and never operate a chainsaw when you are tired or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
Chainsaw Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your chainsaw in good working condition. Sharpen the chain regularly, clean the air filter, and check the oil level.

Axes: The Timeless Tool

Axes are used for splitting wood, felling small trees, and shaping timber. They are a simple but effective tool that has been used for centuries.

Types of Axes:
- Splitting Axes: Designed for splitting logs. They have a heavy head and a wide blade.
- Felling Axes: Designed for felling trees. They have a longer handle and a sharper blade than splitting axes.
- Hatches: Smaller axes that are used for a variety of tasks, such as splitting kindling and shaping wood.
Axe Safety: Axes can be dangerous if used improperly. Always wear appropriate safety gear, including eye protection and gloves. Use a chopping block and keep your feet out of the way.
Axe Maintenance: Keep your axe blade sharp by sharpening it regularly. Store your axe in a dry place to prevent rust.

Chainsaw vs. Axe: The choice between a chainsaw and an axe depends on the task at hand. For felling large trees and bucking logs, a chainsaw is the more efficient tool. For splitting wood and shaping timber, an axe is often the better choice. Many woodworkers and firewood enthusiasts use both tools, depending on the project. I personally prefer using an axe for splitting smaller logs, as it provides a good workout and is a more environmentally friendly option.

Costs, Budgeting, and Resource Management

Woodworking and firewood preparation can be expensive hobbies. It’s important to budget carefully and manage your resources wisely.

Tool Costs: Chainsaws, axes, and other woodworking tools can be a significant investment. Consider buying used tools to save money.
Wood Costs: The cost of wood varies depending on the species, size, and location. Consider sourcing wood locally to reduce transportation costs.
Fuel Costs: Gas-powered chainsaws and other power tools require fuel. Budget for fuel costs when planning your projects.
Maintenance Costs: Tools require regular maintenance, such as sharpening blades and replacing parts. Budget for maintenance costs.
Safety Gear Costs: Safety gear, such as eye protection, hearing protection, and gloves, is essential for woodworking and firewood preparation. Budget for safety gear costs.
Resource Management: Manage your resources wisely by using wood efficiently and minimizing waste. Consider using scrap wood for smaller projects.

Tip: Look for opportunities to acquire wood for free or at a reduced cost. For example, you may be able to get wood from tree removal companies or construction sites.

Troubleshooting and Common Pitfalls

Woodworking and firewood preparation can be challenging. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

Using Dull Tools: Dull tools are more dangerous and less efficient than sharp tools. Keep your blades sharp by sharpening them regularly.
Using the Wrong Tool for the Job: Using the wrong tool can damage the wood and make the job more difficult. Choose the right tool for the task at hand.
Working with Green Wood: Green wood is more difficult to work with and is prone to warping and cracking. Season your wood properly before using it in a woodworking project.
Ignoring Safety Precautions: Ignoring safety precautions can lead to serious injuries. Always wear appropriate safety gear and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Not Planning Ahead: Not planning ahead can lead to mistakes and wasted time. Plan your projects carefully before you start.
Rushing the Job: Rushing the job can lead to mistakes and poor workmanship. Take your time and do the job right.

My Biggest Mistake: I once tried to fell a large tree without properly assessing the lean. The tree fell in the wrong direction and nearly landed on my truck. It was a close call that taught me the importance of careful planning and risk assessment.

Next Steps and Additional Resources

Now that you have a better understanding of how to get rid of boring bees and prepare wood for woodworking and firewood, here are some next steps and additional resources:

Identify the Wood Species: Learn to identify different wood species and their properties.
Practice Your Woodworking Skills: Practice your woodworking skills by building small projects.
Join a Woodworking Club: Join a woodworking club to learn from other woodworkers and share your experiences.
Attend Woodworking Workshops: Attend woodworking workshops to learn new skills and techniques.
Read Woodworking Books and Magazines: Read woodworking books and magazines to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and techniques.
Online Resources: Explore online resources, such as woodworking forums and websites, to find information and inspiration.

Suppliers of Logging Tools:

Stihl: A leading manufacturer of chainsaws and other logging tools.
Husqvarna: Another leading manufacturer of chainsaws and other logging tools.
Gransfors Bruks: A Swedish manufacturer of high-quality axes.
Council Tool: An American manufacturer of axes and other hand tools.

Drying Equipment Rental Services:

Local Rental Companies: Check with local rental companies for availability of dehumidifiers and other drying equipment.
Specialty Woodworking Suppliers: Some specialty woodworking suppliers offer kiln-drying services.

By following these tips and resources, you can effectively get rid of boring bees, prepare wood for woodworking and firewood, and enjoy the rewarding experience of working with wood. Good luck, and happy woodworking!

How Do You Get Rid of Boring Bees? (5 Pro Woodworker Tips)

How Do You Get Rid of Boring Bees? (5 Pro Woodworker Tips)