​Wood-Destroying Organisms 

Wood-destroying organisms (WDOs) can cause serious structural damage to homes and buildings. The most common ones that require professional extermination include:

1. Termites

• Subterranean Termites (Reticulitermes spp., Coptotermes spp.) – The most destructive termite species, they live underground and invade homes through the soil.

• Drywood Termites (Incisitermes spp.) – Nest inside dry wood without needing soil contact, causing hidden damage.

• Dampwood Termites (Zootermopsis spp.) – Prefer moist wood, often found in decaying structures or water-damaged areas.

2. Wood-Boring Beetles

• Powderpost Beetles (Lyctidae, Bostrichidae, Anobiidae) – Larvae tunnel through wood, reducing it to a fine powder-like dust.

• Old House Borers (Hylotrupes bajulus) – A type of longhorn beetle that targets softwoods, often found in homes.

• Deathwatch Beetles (Xestobium rufovillosum) – Infest older wooden structures, particularly in damp conditions.

3. Carpenter Ants

• Black Carpenter Ants (Camponotus spp.) – Unlike termites, they don’t eat wood but excavate tunnels in wooden structures, weakening them over time.

4. Carpenter Bees

• Xylocopa spp. – Drill round holes into untreated wood to create nesting tunnels, causing damage to decks, fences, and eaves.

Why a Pest Control Professional is Necessary

• Proper Identification – Determines the species and the best treatment approach.

• Specialized Treatments – Professionals use fumigation, liquid termiticides, baits, or wood treatments to eliminate infestations.

• Long-Term Prevention – Sealing entry points, applying wood preservatives, and ongoing monitoring prevent future infestations.

• Structural Protection – Expert solutions help protect the integrity of homes and wooden structures.

Because WDO infestations can cause extensive damage if left untreated, hiring a licensed pest control professional is the most effective solution.