carpenter bees (real estate, home, inspector)

[Marblemovers]

I just discovered today what a carpenter bee is. Problem is I discovered them because I saw them going into the support rafters over our deck. I have been all over the internet trying to find out how to get rid of them. Some say paint, others say painting won't deter them. Some say pesticides, others say that the bees are needed to pollinate and you shouldn't kill them. I need to get them off the deck as they have been using it for what is obviously a good deal of time and someone has plugged previous holes but they are just coming back. One site said if you plug the holes without treating the entire nest the larvae will hatch and chew their way out another way. Another site said that you can plug the hole with a dowel and the bees will not try to chew their way out! SO CONFUSED!!
Has anyone local had to deal with these and how did/do you get rid of them? Our deck isn't painted but could be if necessary, but I really don't want to paint it if that is not going to work to keep them away. Any help is appreciated if you know something that really works.

[jchometeam]

From my very limited knowledge of these, I believe painting is the best method. From a real estate selling perspective, be sure to treat the existing holes because the termite letter when selling will require these to be treated just like termites. Typically they put colored caulk in the holes, and tell you to paint the area.

[utvols21]

I dont know if this is the absolute correct way but i was able to treat our screened porch last year with an insecticide by spraying holes and leaving for 24 hrs and then plugging holes with RTV or silicone. They did not cause a problem for the rest of the season and so far so good this year.

[smurr]

We have the same problem here in NE Fla. I usually wait until they have burrowed a nice little niche to the point where the little bugger can totally disappear in the duggery or should that be diggery? Anyway, my thinking is anyone or thing is welcome in my home as long as no damage is done to others or things.

Well, that places the little cellulose chomper on my not welcome list so I wait until the lumber licker enters the wood and whip out the ole Zippo. Voila, fried bumbler.

Nuff said.

[Msblaazer]

We have them in the western part of the state as well. My hubby fires em up too.

[Marblemovers]

jchometeam- THANKS! we just purchased the home in Jan and had the termite letter. Called the inspector and because they didn't look at the deck (it is up in the air over a carport and doesn't meet the ground) and if they had they would have made the seller treat and repair they came out and fixed the problem for free! : ) We will be painting in the next week or two as soon as the chemicals have a chance to dry and set.
Never thought to fire them up but tried that on one too when I saw the bee go in and it worked like a charm! LOL
Thanks everyone!!!!!!

[veragemini]

Remember. They typically have an entrance & exit hole so be sure to find & fill both. I hate those guys! Ugh