Concern on Pest or wood Residue on Coffee Table - Ask Extension
Not sure what we have but could be powder post beetles after much internet searching. See pics. We have residue on our finished basement coffee table ...
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Concern on Pest or wood Residue on Coffee Table #826289
Asked April 19, 2023, 9:02 AM EDT
Not sure what we have but could be powder post beetles after much internet searching. See pics. We have residue on our finished basement coffee table (table was purchased used a year ago) that looks granular but when touched becomes a soft talc-like powder. Our basement is roughly 62 degrees year round. Our concern is what is this and more importantly do we have a potential hazard for whole house infestation? Any advice or your expertise is greatly appreciated along with any recommendations for further action.
Thanks very much.
Kevin & Debbie
Baltimore County Maryland
Expert Response
Hello Kevin and Debbie,
We agree that Powderpost Beetles are a prime suspect given the fine-textured nature of the residue, but can't be certain. You can explore the information on the linked web page, plus delve into the even more detailed information on the University of Kentucky page linked at the bottom of that resource. You don't necessarily have to worry about a whole-house infestation, nor rapidly-accumulating damage since their life cycles are slow, but adult beetles emerging from the new-to-you piece of wood furniture might be the source. The finishing on the wood will probably discourage or prevent them from re-entering it with subsequent generations, though. If you want to consult a pest control professional who can inspect the home for indications of localized infestations and wood damage, you could look for candidates that may have experience with this particular home pest in the search tool on the Maryland State Pest Control Association website.
Miri
We agree that Powderpost Beetles are a prime suspect given the fine-textured nature of the residue, but can't be certain. You can explore the information on the linked web page, plus delve into the even more detailed information on the University of Kentucky page linked at the bottom of that resource. You don't necessarily have to worry about a whole-house infestation, nor rapidly-accumulating damage since their life cycles are slow, but adult beetles emerging from the new-to-you piece of wood furniture might be the source. The finishing on the wood will probably discourage or prevent them from re-entering it with subsequent generations, though. If you want to consult a pest control professional who can inspect the home for indications of localized infestations and wood damage, you could look for candidates that may have experience with this particular home pest in the search tool on the Maryland State Pest Control Association website.
Miri
