Wood fencing is a popular material that helps to enhance curb appeal. With proper maintenance, it can last up to 15 years before needing a replacement--unless you have an infestation of carpenter bees. These destructive insects are known for their attraction to wood and can easily cause premature deterioration. Protect your investment by learning how to identify the presence of carpenter bees and taking the necessary precautions.

What Are Carpenter Bees?

Carpenter bees are slightly larger than the average bee and have a dark coloring that appears almost metallic in certain lights. They don’t have stingers and prefer to build their homes directly inside pieces of solid, unpainted wood.

While you might spot a few of these insects flying around the perimeter of the fence, looking for small holes in the wood is an easier way to detect an issue. These openings are about half an inch in diameter and can go as deep as six inches, turning to follow the grain of the wood. The further in that they go, the weaker the structure becomes.

How Can I Protect My Wood Fencing?

One of the first steps that you can take is to wait for the bees to vacate the property. The younger generation sometimes leaves the nest in the late summer to feed while the adults die off. This provides the perfect opportunity to fill in the tunnels and caulk the openings to prevent further infestations.

If the damage is too extensive to repair, then you might need to replace a few boards. Have a fence contractor come out to perform a thorough inspection at some point during the late summer months. They’ll pinpoint the areas that require replacement and secure the materials to restore the condition of your wood fencing.

Ensure the property is ready for the coming season by reaching out to A & B Fence of Newark, OH. This family-owned company supplies an assortment of residential, commercial, and industrial fences and works with only the finest materials. Their contractors are fully certified by the National Association of Home Builders and the Home Builders Association. If your fence is in need of repair, call (740) 344-7943 to request a free estimate on wood fencing. Visit their website to learn more about the services that they have to offer.