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Schutt Log Homes & Mill Works 816-506-5713

Schutt Log Homes & Mill Works

Let’s Talk About Powder Post Beetles You finally did it—your dream log home is standing tall and beautiful. The warm oak walls, the cozy corners, that sweet smell of wood—it’s everything you pictured. But then… you notice tiny holes. And maybe a little pile of fine sawdust underneath. Don't panic. It might be powderpost beetles. And yes, they sound like something from a Wild West saloon, but they’re actually just little bugs with big appetites for wood. The good news? You can beat them—and keep your log home strong and stunning for decades to come. What Are Powderpost Beetles, Anyway? These little guys are small wood-boring beetles that love hardwoods like oak. They're about the size of a grain of rice, and they leave behind perfectly round holes (usually 1/16 to 1/8 inch wide) and some very fine powder—called frass. If you’ve ever seen little dust piles on your logs or floors and wondered if termites came through with a vacuum, it was probably powderpost beetles. Most of the damage happens when they’re still larvae, tunneling through the wood for months (or even years) before emerging as adults and repeating the cycle.

Why They Love Log Homes Oak log homes, like the ones we build at Schutt Log Homes, are gorgeous and durable—but they’re also a prime target if the wood has starch left in it and hasn't been properly protected. If there’s moisture and exposed, untreated wood? Jackpot for the beetles. How to Treat PowderpostBeetles (and Keep Them Gone) Step 1: Identify the Problem Find those small holes? See the fine dust? You’re likely dealing with active beetles. Step 2: Bring on the Borate This is our favorite method. Products like Tim-Bor or Bora-Care soak into the wood and kill the larvae inside. Even better, they stay in the wood and prevent future infestations. Apply it to bare, dry wood (before staining or sealing). Use a garden sprayer or brush. Reapply if needed, especially in high-risk areas.

Step 3: Control Moisture Powderpost beetles love damp conditions. Keep things dry with: Good ventilation Large roof overhangs Proper caulking and chinking Sealing your wood after treatment

with a borate solution. kiln-dried wood whenever possible. Can You Prevent Them? Yes, and it’s simple: Treat logs during construction Use Always finish and seal wood exposed to the elements. And if you're buying an older cabin or renovating, give it a good inspection—or bring in a pro.

Final Thoughts Powderpost beetles can be a pain—but they’re not the end of the world. With a little knowledge, the right products, and some proactive TLC, you can keep your log home looking beautiful and beetle-free. At Schutt Log Homes, we’ve seen a thing or two over the years. That’s why we treat every oak log with care and help homeowners protect their investment for generations. Have questions? Need help choosing a treatment? Give us a shout—we’re here to help!

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Schutt Log Homes & Mill Works

Why They Love Log Homes Oak log homes, like the ones we build at Schutt Log Homes, are gorgeous and durable—but they’re also a prime target if the wood has starch left in it and hasn't been properly protected. If there’s moisture and exposed, untreated wood? Jackpot for the beetles. How to Treat PowderpostBeetles (and Keep Them Gone) Step 1: Identify the Problem Find those small holes? See the fine dust? You’re likely dealing with active beetles. Step 2: Bring on the Borate This is our favorite method. Products like Tim-Bor or Bora-Care soak into the wood and kill the larvae inside. Even better, they stay in the wood and prevent future infestations. Apply it to bare, dry wood (before staining or sealing). Use a garden sprayer or brush. Reapply if needed, especially in high-risk areas.

Schutt Log Homes & Mill Works 816-506-5713

Let’s Talk About Powder Post Beetles You finally did it—your dream log home is standing tall and beautiful. The warm oak walls, the cozy corners, that sweet smell of wood—it’s everything you pictured. But then… you notice tiny holes. And maybe a little pile of fine sawdust underneath. Don't panic. It might be powderpost beetles. And yes, they sound like something from a Wild West saloon, but they’re actually just little bugs with big appetites for wood. The good news? You can beat them—and keep your log home strong and stunning for decades to come. What Are Powderpost Beetles, Anyway? These little guys are small wood-boring beetles that love hardwoods like oak. They're about the size of a grain of rice, and they leave behind perfectly round holes (usually 1/16 to 1/8 inch wide) and some very fine powder—called frass. If you’ve ever seen little dust piles on your logs or floors and wondered if termites came through with a vacuum, it was probably powderpost beetles. Most of the damage happens when they’re still larvae, tunneling through the wood for months (or even years) before emerging as adults and repeating the cycle.

Home
Oak cabin kits
Hybrid Timber Frame
Basic Home Kits
Barn-House Kits
Barn kits
Farm and garden kits
About Our Manuals
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Construction Gallery
Financing
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What's Included
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