[AT] OT - Powder Post Beetles

[Rob Gray]

I have not seen any dust on the floor at all but I will try setting out 
a bed sheet as a test as you suggest. The only thing that the 
exterminator indicated as proof of activity was to hit the beams with a 
piece of metal relatively hard. When this was done some dust did come 
out of the holes, but no dust is evident below the holes that i can see.

Thanks for the advice!

Rob

Cecil E Monson wrote:

>
>     As a real estate agent, I can tell you that I have run into
> these pests and how I tell if they are active or not. Active powder
> post beetles always leave fine powder under the areas where they are
> working. Those holes are just the indication they might be there but
> if you find powder on anything under the holes, yes, you definitely
> have working and active powder post beetles. Not all are active and
> the holes last seemingly forever. I've seen barns with holes that
> must have been a hundred years old but there was no activity and no
> apparent damage to the structure. What I would do is tell that
> exterminator you want to see evidence of current activity and have
> him show you new dust where they are working. If you find any dust,
> you can check this yourself by spreading an old bed sheet under the
> holes and checking for dust. It will show up quickly in active areas.
>
>     I showed a home several years ago that had active powder
> post beetles. The owner had said they had no problems with pests
> but when I inspected the house before showing, I found new powder
> post beetle dust on top of both the washer and dryer in the basement.
> Believe me, it is easy to spot and there will be no question in your
> mind as to what it is once you see it.
>
> Cecil