Wood-Destroying Pests
(Termites, Carpenter Ants, Wood-Boring Beetles & More)
Wood-destroying pests are insects and arthropods that infest and damage wooden materials in homes, buildings, and outdoor structures. These species weaken the structural integrity of wood, often silently, leading to costly repairs and long-term risks if not detected early.
Unlike Stored Product Pests that target food or Agricultural Pests that affect living plants, wood-damaging pests attack dead, dry, or structural wood — including furniture, framing, beams, floorboards, fences, decks, and more.
What This Section Covers
This category focuses on destructive pests that:
Excavate wood to build nests (e.g. carpenter ants, carpenter bees)
Feed on wood cellulose (e.g. termites, wood-boring beetles)
Thrive in moist, dark, or poorly ventilated areas
Often remain hidden for years before signs of damage become visible
Require professional, long-term control strategies
In This Section, You’ll Learn:
How to recognize early warning signs of wood infestations
Key differences between termites, carpenter ants, and beetles
Species-specific information on biology, behavior, and damage potential
Practical tips for monitoring, treatment, and structural prevention
Integrated strategies for long-term wood protection and repairs
Why Wood Pests Are Dangerous
Unlike many household pests that cause discomfort or nuisance, wood-destroying insects impact property value and structural safety.
In some regions (e.g. U.S., Australia, SE Asia), termites are the leading cause of non-weather structural damage.
These pests can:
Hollow out beams and supports
Damage flooring, ceilings, windows, and wooden furniture
Stay active year-round in warm or insulated environments
Remain undetected until visible signs or collapse occur
Indoor or Outdoor?
Some wood-destroying pests, like drywood termites or carpenter ants, begin outdoors but eventually enter structures. Others, like powderpost beetles, infest wood already installed indoors.
This section bridges indoor and structural pest control, and focuses specifically on pests with wood as their habitat or food source.
For pests that live exclusively indoors, see Urban & Indoor Pests
Explore Wood-Destroying Pests
Use the categories below to explore species-specific guides — with clear advice on how to identify, prevent, and eliminate threats before they cause lasting damage.