How To Get Rid Of Carpenter Bees (5 Pro Woodworking Hacks)

Carpenter bees can be a real headache, especially when you’re investing time and money into woodworking projects or relying on wooden structures around your property. Addressing them early isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about preventing long-term structural damage, which can translate into significant savings down the road. Over the years, I’ve dealt with my fair share of carpenter bee infestations, both in my own workshop and on various timber framing projects. I’ve learned that a multi-pronged approach, combining preventative measures with targeted treatments, is the most effective way to keep these buzzing pests at bay. Let’s dive into some proven methods I’ve used to protect wood from these unwanted guests.

How to Get Rid of Carpenter Bees: 5 Pro Woodworking Hacks

Understanding Carpenter Bees: Biology and Behavior

Before I jump into the “how-to,” it’s crucial to understand your enemy. Carpenter bees are solitary bees that resemble bumblebees, but with a key difference: they have a shiny, hairless abdomen, whereas bumblebees have fuzzy ones. Unlike honeybees, they don’t live in colonies. The females bore into wood to create tunnels for their nests, laying eggs in individual chambers provisioned with pollen.

Damage: Carpenter bees are drawn to softwoods like cedar, pine, redwood, and fir, but they’ll also attack hardwoods if they’re weathered or untreated. The damage they cause is primarily cosmetic, but repeated nesting over years can weaken wooden structures.
Life Cycle: Female carpenter bees emerge in the spring, mate, and then begin excavating their nests. They typically re-use existing tunnels, expanding them each year. This is why early intervention is key – preventing initial nesting can significantly reduce future problems.
Key Concept: Green Wood vs. Seasoned Wood: Green wood refers to freshly cut wood that still has a high moisture content. Seasoned wood, on the other hand, has been properly dried to reduce its moisture content. Carpenter bees are less likely to attack seasoned wood, especially if it’s properly treated.

Hack #1: Surface Treatments and Preventative Finishes

One of the first lines of defense against carpenter bees is a good surface treatment. These treatments don’t necessarily kill the bees but make the wood less attractive to them for nesting.

Paints and Varnishes: A solid coat of paint or varnish is often enough to deter carpenter bees. They prefer bare, untreated wood. The key is thorough coverage, paying close attention to end grains and any exposed surfaces. I’ve found that oil-based paints tend to provide better protection than latex-based paints, as they penetrate the wood better and create a tougher barrier.
Wood Preservatives: Wood preservatives containing copper naphthenate or borates are effective in preventing wood-boring insects, including carpenter bees. These preservatives penetrate the wood fibers, making them unpalatable and toxic to the bees.
- Case Study: In a recent timber frame project, I used a borate-based wood preservative on all exposed timbers. After two years, there’s been no evidence of carpenter bee activity, while a neighboring, untreated structure has already shown signs of infestation.
Application: Apply the chosen treatment according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, this involves cleaning the wood surface, applying the preservative or paint evenly, and allowing it to dry thoroughly. Multiple coats may be necessary for optimal protection.
Tool Specifications: When applying preservatives, I recommend using a high-quality brush with synthetic bristles for even coverage. For larger surfaces, a pump sprayer can be used for faster application, followed by back-brushing to ensure proper penetration.
Strategic Advantage: Preventative finishes are a proactive approach that can save you time and money in the long run by preventing infestations from taking hold.

Hack #2: Filling Existing Holes and Tunnels

If you already have carpenter bee holes, it’s important to address them promptly. Sealing the holes prevents the bees from re-using them and laying more eggs.

Timing is Key: The best time to fill holes is in late fall or early spring, when the bees are less active. If you fill the holes while the bees are still inside, they may simply bore new ones.
Materials: There are several options for filling carpenter bee holes:
- Wood Putty: A reliable option for smaller holes. Choose a paintable putty that matches the color of your wood.
- Caulk: Effective for sealing larger cracks and gaps. Use a paintable caulk that is designed for exterior use.
- Wood Dowels: For a more permanent solution, you can insert wood dowels into the holes and then sand them flush with the surface. This is particularly useful for structural timbers.
- Steel Wool: Stuffing the holes tightly with steel wool before applying putty or caulk can further deter bees from re-using the tunnels.
Process:
1. Clean the area around the hole with a brush to remove any debris.
2. Apply the chosen filler material, ensuring it completely fills the hole.
3. Smooth the surface with a putty knife or your finger.
4. Allow the filler to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
5. Sand the surface smooth and paint or stain to match the surrounding wood.
Personalized Story: I once had a customer who was adamant about not using any chemical treatments on their wooden deck. We opted for the wood dowel method, carefully inserting and sanding dowels into hundreds of carpenter bee holes. It was time-consuming, but the result was a beautiful, bee-free deck without the use of any chemicals.
Technical Detail: When using wood dowels, choose a dowel that is slightly larger in diameter than the hole. This will ensure a tight fit. You may need to lightly tap the dowel into the hole with a hammer.

Hack #3: Insecticidal Dusts and Sprays

For more severe infestations, insecticidal dusts and sprays can provide a more aggressive solution. However, it’s crucial to use these products responsibly and according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Dusts: Insecticidal dusts containing deltamethrin, permethrin, or cyfluthrin are effective in killing carpenter bees that come into contact with them. These dusts are typically applied directly into the bee tunnels.
- Application: Use a duster to puff the dust into the holes, ensuring that it reaches the back of the tunnels. Wear gloves and a dust mask to protect yourself from exposure.
- Caution: Insecticidal dusts can be harmful to beneficial insects, such as honeybees. Avoid applying them to areas where bees are actively foraging.
Sprays: Insecticidal sprays containing similar active ingredients can be used to treat the exterior surfaces of wood. These sprays create a residual barrier that can kill or repel carpenter bees.
- Application: Apply the spray evenly to all exposed wood surfaces, paying particular attention to areas where carpenter bee activity has been observed.
- Timing: Apply the spray in the early morning or late evening, when bees are less active. Avoid spraying on windy days, as the spray can drift and contaminate other areas.
Tool Specifications: When applying insecticidal dusts, use a hand-held duster with a long nozzle for reaching deep into the bee tunnels. For sprays, use a pump sprayer with an adjustable nozzle for controlling the spray pattern.
Original Insight: I’ve found that a combination of dusts and sprays is often the most effective approach. Dusts kill the bees that are already in the tunnels, while sprays prevent new bees from nesting.
Cost: The cost of insecticidal dusts and sprays varies depending on the product and the size of the container. Expect to pay between $10 and $30 for a bottle of dust or spray.

Hack #4: Traps and Lures

Carpenter bee traps are a non-toxic alternative to insecticides. These traps lure the bees into a container from which they cannot escape.

How They Work: Carpenter bee traps typically consist of a wooden box with several holes drilled into the sides. The bees are attracted to the holes, which mimic the entrances to their nests. Once inside the trap, they become trapped and eventually die.
Placement: Place the traps in areas where carpenter bee activity has been observed, such as near wooden structures or under eaves. Hang the traps at a height of about 6 to 10 feet.
Lures: Some traps come with a lure that attracts carpenter bees. These lures typically contain a pheromone that mimics the scent of female carpenter bees.
Effectiveness: Carpenter bee traps can be effective in reducing carpenter bee populations, but they are not a complete solution. They work best when used in conjunction with other preventative measures.
DIY Trap: You can easily make your own carpenter bee trap using a piece of wood, a drill, and a plastic bottle. Drill several holes into the wood and attach the bottle to the bottom. The bees will enter the holes and fall into the bottle.
- Material Specs: Use untreated wood for the trap, as painted or treated wood may deter the bees. The holes should be about ½ inch in diameter.
Benefits: Carpenter bee traps are a safe and environmentally friendly way to control carpenter bee populations. They do not harm beneficial insects or contaminate the environment.
Case Study: I once installed several carpenter bee traps around a customer’s barn. Within a few weeks, the traps were filled with carpenter bees, and the customer reported a significant reduction in carpenter bee activity.

Hack #5: Wood Selection and Design Considerations

The type of wood you use and the design of your wooden structures can also play a role in preventing carpenter bee infestations.

Wood Selection: As mentioned earlier, carpenter bees prefer softwoods. If possible, consider using hardwoods, such as oak, maple, or walnut, for exterior structures. These woods are more resistant to carpenter bee damage.
- Data: Studies have shown that carpenter bees are significantly less likely to nest in hardwoods than in softwoods.
Design: Design your wooden structures to minimize exposed end grain, which is a common entry point for carpenter bees. Cap the ends of timbers with metal flashing or trim to protect them from the elements and prevent bee infestations.
Pressure-Treated Wood: Pressure-treated wood is resistant to decay and insect damage, including carpenter bees. This type of wood is a good choice for decks, fences, and other outdoor structures.
- Moisture Content Targets: Ensure pressure-treated wood is properly dried before installation to prevent warping or cracking. Aim for a moisture content of 12-15%.
Strategic Advantage: Choosing the right wood and incorporating smart design elements can significantly reduce the risk of carpenter bee infestations, saving you time and money in the long run.
Personalized Story: I once designed a timber frame house with minimal exposed end grain. By capping the ends of the timbers with copper flashing, we were able to create a beautiful and durable structure that was also resistant to carpenter bees.

Additional Tips and Considerations

Regular Inspections: Regularly inspect your wooden structures for signs of carpenter bee activity. Look for small, round holes in the wood, as well as sawdust beneath the holes. Early detection is key to preventing infestations from becoming severe.
Remove Old Nests: If you find old carpenter bee nests, remove them and seal the holes to prevent the bees from re-using them.
Professional Assistance: If you have a severe carpenter bee infestation, consider hiring a professional pest control company. They have the expertise and equipment to effectively eliminate the bees and prevent them from returning.
Safety First: Always wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves, a dust mask, and eye protection, when working with wood preservatives, insecticides, or carpenter bee traps.
Environmental Considerations: Be mindful of the environmental impact of your pest control methods. Choose products that are safe for beneficial insects and the environment.

Conclusion: A Proactive Approach to Carpenter Bee Control

Controlling carpenter bees requires a proactive and multi-faceted approach. By understanding their biology, using preventative finishes, filling existing holes, employing insecticidal dusts and sprays, utilizing traps and lures, and choosing the right wood and design, you can effectively protect your wooden structures from these buzzing pests. Remember, early detection and intervention are key to preventing infestations from becoming severe and costly.

Now that you’re armed with these pro woodworking hacks, you can confidently tackle carpenter bee problems and enjoy your beautiful, bee-free wooden structures for years to come. Don’t be afraid to experiment and adapt these techniques to your specific situation. Every project is unique, and what works best for one person may not work best for another. The key is to be persistent and proactive in your efforts. Good luck, and happy woodworking!

How to Get Rid of Carpenter Bees (5 Pro Woodworking Hacks)