Pest ID Learn about the pests that impact homes and businesses across Central Massachusetts.

Pest Identification: Pest ID: Powder Post Beetles

Powder post beetles can be a serious problem for homeowners because they can destroy not only cellar beams but furniture as well. Most often the home owner is never even aware of their silent and destructive activity.

Powder post beetles earned their name because of the fine wood dust, or powder type of frass, they produce as they bore through a variety of woods. Furniture in particular, can have relatively high moisture content – about 14 percent or higher. Powder Post Beetles are typically very active in poorly-ventilated areas, especially after furniture has absorbed moisture over time. In fact, powder post beetles have been known to be inside furniture for decades before ever even revealing their presence.

Powder post beetles are very small – only about a 1/16 to 3/8 of an inch in length. While you might think it’s the adult powder post beetles that do all the damage, it’s actually done by mature larvae – adult powder post beetles only live long enough to breed more powder post beetles. They go through a complete metamorphosis, just like flies and fleas, starting with eggs, growing to larvae, pupae, and then finally on to adulthood.

If you think you might have a powder post beetle infestation, contact experienced professional exterminators, such as Ford’s Hometown Services. They’ll know the proper techniques and treatments to get rid of your powder post beetle problem.

There are actually three types of powder post beetles: anobiid, lyctid, and bostrichidae. Lyctid powder post beetles are the ones most commonly found in households because they prefer hardwoods such as mahogany and oak, which is most often used in making furniture. The powder – or “frass” as it’s called – is very fine and flour-like. Lyctid powder post beetles leave exit holes about the size of a push pin hole.

If you suspect you might have powder post beetles, play it safe and call the pros here at Ford’s Hometown Services. We’ll quickly evaluate the situation and determine if you need to take steps to eliminate powder post beetles.

Central Mass Trusts Us. See Why.

J
Amazing Customer Service
"After 2+ months of rodent activity, I called Ford and within 2–3 days of their first setup, the house was silent!"

Jess
4/13/26
D
Great Service, Top-Quality Customer Service
"Great service, top-quality customer service and professional services."

Dan Aubertin
4/12/26
T
Robert was knowledgeable and professional
"Robert was knowledgeable, professional, and gave me lots of education about the whole process."

Trish Aponte
4/10/26
G
Dean was great
"Thorough and respectful of my home."

Gerry
4/10/26
J
Paul was very friendly
"Paul was very friendly and took some time to explain what he will be doing on his 1st visit of the season."

James Burke
4/01/26
D
Very Passionate and Knowledgeable
"He explained everything that he was doing and effectively answered our questions."

David Reno
3/21/26
J
Professional and On Time
"He was professional and on time."

James Ramsey
3/05/26
D
I Love Ford's Hometown Services
"They provided me and my family with another visit on the rodent protection program that I have each year."

Donna Pina
3/03/26
A
Not a peep of a mouse all winter
"I'm pleased to say it is 2/28/26, and not a peep of a mouse has been heard all winter!"

April L
2/28/26

View All Reviews

Talk with Ford's Hometown Services Today

Call (774) 418-4908 or send the form and we will help you sort out pests, wildlife, or lawn concerns with a plan that fits your property. At Ford's Hometown Services, we treat your home or business with the care we use for our own.

First Name
Last Name
Phone
Email
Address
Are you a new customer?
How can we help you?
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

Local Care Backed by 85+ Years of Doing the Right Thing

Voted the Area's Top Choice for Pest Control

We were voted the #1 pest control company in Central Massachusetts in 2024, something we achieved by putting people first and providing lasting results.
85+ Years Of Know-How

With us, you get practical, tailor-made solutions that are backed by over eight decades of industry experience.
Cleaner Visits, Every Time

We follow a four-step cleanliness process to keep homes and businesses neat and tidy, all while delivering effective pest control and lawn care.
Comprehensive Care, One Team

We're your one-stop shop for complete pest and wildlife control and lawn care, all under one roof.

Stay Ahead of Pests

Explore tips, local advice, and real answers from our Worcester team to help you protect your home, family, and property all year long.

Visit Our Blog