Skip to Content
Assurance Pest Solutions Assurance Pest Solutions
Call Us Today! 781-630-5653
Top
Wood Destroying Insects

Wood-Destroying Insect Identification Guide

What are wood-destroying insects?

Wood-destroying insects invade and damage wood to create nesting sites or because they use the wood as a source of food. When these pests choose wood in our homes, the damage they cause can become extensive, expensive, and difficult to repair.

Eastern subterranean termites, powderpost beetles, and carpenter ants are examples of wood-destroying insects that live throughout Massachusetts and invade homes and businesses.

  • Carpenter ants are one of the largest species of household invading ants living throughout the U.S. These ants chew through wood, not to feed on, but to create tunnels and nesting galleries.
  • The Eastern subterranean termite feeds on and is attracted to water-damaged or decaying wood. They feed on the cellulose found in wood and other plant materials.
  • Powderpost beetles invade wood, and their feeding larvae turn wood into a fine powder. These pests invade both hardwoods and softwoods.

Are wood-destroying insects dangerous?

Continue Reading Read Less

Hear From Our Happy Customers

We put your satisfaction first, always!
    “Michael was thorough and informative. He showed me where bugs would be and took his time to reassure me that no infestation occurred. I appreciated him coming to my home the same day that I called with concerns. 10/10 Will recommend”
    - Erin M.
    “Prompt and knowledgeable service.”
    Prompt arrival with knowledgeable service. Prices are reasonable, and the staff is always helpful and friendly. Assurance Pest Solutions provides effective pest control with excellent customer care.
    - Maureen Van Niel
    “Fantastic service!”
    Assurance Pest Solutions impressed me with their prompt, friendly, and comprehensive service. They provided clear communication and went above and beyond to ensure our home was pest-free. Truly thankful for their exceptional efforts!
    - Laura Will
    “Courteous, competent, and helpful.”
    Assurance Pest Solutions did a great job. The team was courteous, competent, and helpful. They efficiently addressed all pest issues, ensuring a thorough and professional service. It was a pleasant experience working with them, and I highly recommend their services.
    - Bob Carnegie
    “Best service for pest control.”
    Assurance Pest Solutions offers the best service! Professional, thorough, and detailed. The team is extremely knowledgeable and does an amazing job during visits.
    - Fiona Barrett
    “Thorough and reassuring.”
    Assurance Pest Solutions was thorough and informative. They showed me where bugs might be and reassured me there was no infestation. I appreciated the same-day service when I called with concerns. 10/10 recommend.
    - Erin Morrow
    “Assurance Pest Control was so easy to work with. They set me up with a next day appointment and everything worked out great. Roof bee issue resolved. Thanks!”
    - Jerry M.
    “Excellent interactions. Friendly and professional. Informative. I felt I was getting their best advice and counsel without any sales pressure at all. Just performing their professional service in an honest way. Highly recommend.”
    - David D.

    Where will I find wood-destroying insects?

    Eastern subterranean termites live in moist soil under fallen trees, woodpiles, leaf piles, and other organic debris. They travel from their nest to a food source each day. If they find their way into our homes, termites won't hesitate to feed on structural wood like floor beams, joists behind walls, and eventually beams above ceilings.

    Female powderpost beetles lay their eggs on the surface or just underneath the surface of a piece of wood. After the larvae hatch, they tunnel through the wood, feeding on it and reducing on it to a fine, dust-like powder. Powderpost beetles regularly invade flooring, structural timbers, antique furniture, and wood trim.

    Carpenter ants nest outside in dead trees and stumps, rotting fence posts, and old woodpiles. Like other ants, carpenter ants often find their way into our homes while out foraging for food to bring back to the nest. Once inside, if they decide to stay and build a nest, they place it in the wood behind walls, under floors, or in crawlspaces.

    How do I get rid of wood-destroying insects?

    Keep destructive wood-destroying insects out of your home with the help of Assurance Pest Solutions. We offer prompt and reliable pest solutions to eliminate these pests from homes and businesses quickly. With over 41 years of experience in the industry, we know how to find, treat, and solve problems with wood-destroying insects.

    Continue Reading Read Less
    Serving Massachusetts & Rhode Island

    Assurance Pest Solutions is proud to serve the following areas:

    • Arlington
    • Belmont
    • Boston
    • Cambridge
    • Concord
    • Dover
    • Lexington
    • Medfield
    • Medford
    • Millis
    • Natick
    • Needham
    • Newton
    • Sherborn
    • Sudbury
    • Walpole
    • Waltham
    • Watertown
    • Wayland
    • Wellesley
    • Weston
    • Westwood

    Why We Stand Out

    • Same-Day or Next Day Service
      Some things just can't wait. We can come see you today or next day!
    • Family-Owned & Operated
      Our family is proud to serve you and our community.
    • Associate Certified Entomologists on Staff
      We have Certified Entomologists on staff, so you know exactly which pests are in your space.
    • 5-Star Customer Service
      We provide five-star customer service with a smile.
    • Licensed & Insured
      Entrust your pest control needs to licensed, insured professionals.
    • We Offer Free Estimates
      Talk to our pest control team today during a free estimate.

    Stay In The Know

    Learn more about pests and when to call the experts
    Ready to Eliminate Pests with the BEst?

    Contact Us Today

    Assurance Pest Solutions Can Protect Your Property
    • Please enter your first name.
    • Please enter your last name.
    • Please enter your phone number.
      This isn't a valid phone number.
    • Please enter your email address.
      This isn't a valid email address.
    • Please lookup your address.
    • Please make a selection.
    • Please enter a message.
    • By submitting, you agree to be contacted about your request & other information using automated technology. Message frequency varies. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to cancel. Acceptable Use Policy

    Memberships & Certifications

    • Associate Certified Entomologist
    • National Pest Management Association
    • National Wildlife Control Operators Association
    • New England Pest Management Association
    • Entomological Society of America