Powderpost beetles bore into hardwood and leave a fine, powder-like frass behind — a real concern in the century-old coastal housing of Coupeville, La Conner, and Anacortes Old Town. Salty Dog Pest Control treats active infestations and backs the work with a defined-term warranty.
What powderpost beetles are
Powderpost beetles are wood-destroying insects whose larvae tunnel through hardwood — flooring, trim, framing, furniture, and structural timber — for months or years before emerging. Second only to termites among wood-destroying pests, they are especially at home in the dense, older housing stock of our historic coastal towns.
Signs of powderpost beetles
- Tiny round exit holes (about the size of a pinhead) in wood
- Fine, flour-like powder (frass) beneath or around the holes
- Weak or crumbling wood surfaces
- Emerging beetles, often in spring and summer
Where they thrive here
Coupeville is one of the oldest towns in Washington, and La Conner and Anacortes Old Town carry dense pre-war inventory; south Whidbey is full of older cabins and converted summer homes. That housing stock is exactly what powderpost beetles favor — which is why this is a service local homeowners genuinely need.
Our treatment & warranty
We assess the extent of the infestation, treat the affected wood, and advise on the moisture and conditions that support beetle activity. Powderpost beetle treatments are backed by a defined-term warranty — see our Guarantee for terms.
Powderpost beetle FAQ
Are those holes old or active? Fresh, light-colored frax and new powder usually indicate active infestation. We can assess and tell you.
Do you treat historic homes? Yes — much of our powderpost work is in the historic housing of Coupeville, La Conner, and Anacortes.
Meet your technician
Powderpost beetle treatment is led by Matthew Pasquale (WSDA structural pest license #101709).
What our customers say
Get your free estimate
Call (360) 206-3293 or request an estimate below. Serving Oak Harbor, Coupeville, Freeland, Langley, Clinton, Greenbank, Anacortes, La Conner, and the surrounding islands.
