Hi Robert
A few years ago we were asked to treat a Sydney ferry that was on display in a
museum which was infested with powderpost beetles. During the refit for display
a lot of Lyctus-susceptible timber was used. There was extensive borer
activity throughout the vessel, but especially below decks (oh joy) to deck
supports, etc.
First we sprayed all the timber lightly with water to assist the uptake of the
borate. We then applied Boracol to the timber using garden-type sprayers. We
had to re-treat several areas a few months later (as further frass was noted),
then one or two spots during the following year, but we eventually erradicated
the borers.
One quick note: The timber you mentioned is very old, so I'm not sure if it
will be the same insect as the one we dealt with here. The powderpost beetle
(Lyctus brunneus) only attacks timber in the first 20ish years of service. Then
the timber is too dry and can no longer be infested (by this borer, anyway).
Even if it is another species, I'm sure the borate treatment would work.
Best wishes,
Alex
Alex Roach
Heritage Pest Management
On 04/02/2011, at 7:54 AM, Jones, Robert (Ryan) rjo...@cwf.org wrote:
One of our two-story historic buildings has recently shown signs of powder
post beetle infestation.
New flight holes (which were filled with frass and intermingled with old
flight holes) were located in the exposed ceiling beams of an unused cellar
room. The beams were reportedly installed back in the 1940’s. We have noted
approximately 20-30 holes in the immediate vicinity that appear to be fresh.
We are now trying to decide what would be the best course of action in
getting rid of the problem.
Our first thought was to secure 8-10 glue board type traps 2-3 inches under
the beams (using tape or tacks) to determine if the holes are definitely
active. These glue boards would help us track new sawdust and/or emerging
beetles so that we could better understand the extent of the problem.
If the holes prove to be active, we will have to take additional steps. We
were wondering if there is any value to treating the beams with Bora Care or
a similar borate product to kill burrowing larvae and prevent future
infestation. Most of what I have read about borate sprays has left me
wondering whether the finished product would penetrate the wood deep enough
to kill any of the larvae.
We would certainly like to avoid tenting the structure for obvious reasons.
Any thoughts or experiences on the management of powder post beetles?
