Termites & wood pests

Old house borers: identification & old house borer control

Also known as: woodworm, longhorned beetles

Old house borer larvae tunnel in softwood framing for years and can be heard rasping inside walls. We confirm activity, treat with borates and evaluate whether the affected framing needs reinforcement.

Powderpost beetle exit holes and fine wood dust on a hardwood beam

How to identify old house borers

What it looks like: Large brown-black beetles with very long antennae; larvae are cream-colored grubs.
Size: 5/8 to 1 inch adults
Where you'll find it: Softwood framing, crawl space joists, attic rafters and newer pine construction.
Commonly confused with: Powderpost beetles leave smaller round holes and floury dust.

Signs of old house borers in your home

Oval exit holes about 1/4 inch wide
Rasping or ticking inside walls
Powdery frass packed in galleries
Rippled wood surface

Old house borers questions homeowners ask

What is the ticking sound inside my wall?

Wood-boring beetle larvae chewing through framing — old house borers are the most common culprit in softwood.

Old house borer control by city

Local technicians handle old house borers in every market below — pick your city for neighborhood coverage, seasonal notes and a free quote.

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