Carpenter Bee Prevention & Control
How to Prevent Carpenter Bees from Attacking Wood
At The Other Bee Guy, we’ve seen firsthand how much damage carpenter bees can cause when left unchecked. While we specialize in bee removal and safe bee relocation, prevention is always the best first step. Carpenter bees are naturally drawn to untreated, exposed, or weathered wood because it provides an ideal nesting site. Once they bore in, they create tunnels that weaken structures over time.
One of the most effective ways to prevent carpenter bees from attacking wood is to seal and paint any exposed surfaces. We recommend applying exterior-grade paint or varnish to decks, siding, trim, and eaves. Carpenter bees are far less likely to burrow into wood that has a protective finish. In addition, when building new outdoor structures, choose hardwoods whenever possible. Softwoods like pine and cedar are especially vulnerable to carpenter bee activity.
As part of our process, we often help clients identify untreated or unsealed areas that could invite carpenter bees back year after year. Regular upkeep saves you the expense and stress of repairing bee damage later.
Deterring Carpenter Bees Naturally
We believe in solutions that are safe for both people and pollinators. That’s why we often recommend natural deterrents as part of a long-term carpenter bee prevention plan. Carpenter bees dislike strong citrus scents, so a simple homemade citrus spray applied to vulnerable areas can make a difference. Essential oils like tea tree, lavender, and almond oil can also help deter them. These methods don’t harm the bees but instead encourage them to find alternative nesting sites.
Another option we’ve seen work well is placing a bee house away from your main structure. While carpenter bees don’t form hives like honey bees, providing them with an alternative piece of untreated wood in a low-risk area can redirect their activity. This approach lets you protect your property while supporting pollinator populations. As beekeepers ourselves, we understand the importance of keeping healthy bee colonies, which is why we also offer nucs and nucleus colonies for clients who want to support local pollination in a safe and sustainable way.
When natural repellents are paired with regular maintenance, they create a strong line of defense against carpenter bees without disrupting the ecosystem.
Long-Term Solutions to Stop Carpenter Bees
Over the years, we’ve learned that preventing carpenter bee infestations isn’t a one-time task—it’s a long-term commitment. Consistent inspections and upkeep are the keys to success. We advise homeowners to check vulnerable areas of their property every spring, since this is when carpenter bees are most active. Early detection allows you to seal up new holes before they expand into larger tunnel systems.
If you notice holes, always fill them with a wood filler or caulk after ensuring the bees have left. Sealing old nests denies carpenter bees the opportunity to return to the same spot season after season. For high-risk areas like eaves, soffits, or outdoor beams, protective barriers such as aluminum flashing or vinyl siding can provide an additional layer of protection.
Our team brings years of experience in bee hive relocation, so we know how persistent bees can be. That’s why we combine preventative construction tips with ongoing monitoring. By doing so, we help homeowners not only stop carpenter bees now but keep them away for years to come.
Professional Carpenter Bee Control
Sometimes, despite your best efforts, carpenter bees may still return. When infestations become persistent, it’s important to call in professionals who understand both bee behavior and long-term prevention. At The Other Bee Guy, we don’t simply treat the problem and leave—we provide solutions that ensure carpenter bees won’t damage your property again.
Unlike general pest control companies, we specialize in safe bee relocation. This means we remove carpenter bees with care, respecting their role as pollinators while protecting your home. Our expertise allows us to identify nesting patterns, seal vulnerable areas, and recommend preventative measures tailored to your specific property.
Clients often reach out to us after unsuccessful DIY attempts or repeated treatments that don’t last. By choosing a trusted company with proven results, you gain peace of mind knowing the issue is resolved properly. You can also see the impact we’ve had for others by reading our customer reviews.
If you suspect carpenter bees are nesting in your property or want to set up preventative measures, reach out through our contact page. With our knowledge and commitment to sustainable solutions, we’ll help you keep your home safe while respecting the balance of nature.
Preventative Landscaping Tips
At The Other Bee Guy, we’ve learned that carpenter bee prevention isn’t just about sealing wood—it’s also about the environment around your home. Landscaping choices can have a big impact on whether carpenter bees see your property as an inviting nesting site.
One of the first steps is reducing the availability of untreated wood. Firewood piles, old fence posts, and unsealed sheds are all prime targets for carpenter bees. Keep these materials stored away from your main structure and, if possible, off the ground. Replacing untreated posts with pressure-treated or metal options is another smart move.
We also recommend using deterrent plantings around vulnerable structures. Certain flowering plants attract pollinators while naturally drawing them away from your home. By creating bee-friendly zones in your yard, you give carpenter bees alternative food and shelter sources. This balances your need for property protection with the essential role bees play in pollination.
Our work goes beyond removal—we also help property owners think strategically about the long-term picture. Whether it’s redirecting bees to safer spaces or helping you support pollinators with local honey production, we believe in protecting both your home and the ecosystem.
Carpenter Bee Prevention and Control
Preventing carpenter bee infestations requires a mix of proactive maintenance, natural deterrents, and professional support when necessary. By sealing exposed wood, using safe repellents, filling old nests, and keeping up with seasonal inspections, you can protect your property for the long term.
At The Other Bee Guy, we combine years of bee removal and relocation experience with a deep respect for pollinators. We understand the damage carpenter bees can cause, but we also know the vital role bees play in our environment. That’s why our approach focuses on sustainable prevention, professional expertise, and solutions that last.
If you’re ready to protect your home from carpenter bees or need help with a current infestation, we invite you to contact us. Our team is here to provide expert advice, safe removal, and proven prevention strategies. And if you’d like to see how we’ve helped others, visit our reviews page to hear from satisfied clients.
By working together, we can keep your property safe while supporting healthy pollinator populations for years to come.