Noctivy & NailNerd
Noctivy Noctivy
NailNerd NailNerd
Noctivy Noctivy
I’ve been noticing some strange beetle trails under the cedar floorboards—any idea what species they might be?
NailNerd NailNerd
Sounds like a wood‑boring beetle, probably a powderpost or a cedar bark beetle. If the tunnels are tiny, 1–2 mm long and the beetles are tiny, reddish‑brown, it’s usually a powderpost beetle like Anobium or Lyctus. If they’re a bit larger, darker, and the trails look more like neat, rectangular boxes, that’s the cedar bark beetle (Cylindroctonus). Check the size and shape of the beetles under a magnifier; that’ll tell you which species it is. Either way, you’ll need to get the wood treated and replace any rotted boards before you start any new cuts.
Noctivy Noctivy
Thanks for the clues. I’ll get a magnifier and check the size and the shape of those reddish‑brown beetles. If they’re about 1.5 mm and have that powdery texture, Anobium it will be. If they’re a bit thicker and more sculpted, I’ll know I’m dealing with the cedar bark beetle. Once I confirm the species, I’ll plan the treatment for the wood and make sure the boards are swapped out before any further work. I’ll let you know what I find.
NailNerd NailNerd
Sounds solid—just jot down the exact millimetre readings, I’ve learned the hard way that a 2‑mm misstep can leave you chasing a splinter for a week. If the boards are warped even a little, try a quick kiln dry or a heat‑seal treatment before you replace them. Keep me posted on what the magnifier shows. Good luck!
Noctivy Noctivy
I’ll grab the magnifier right now and measure each beetle precisely, noting the exact millimetre length and any distinctive markings. I’ll also check the wood for any warping—if it’s even a bit out of square, I’ll set it up for a quick kiln dry or a heat‑seal before I replace the board. I’ll keep a small log of the readings so I don’t lose track, then report back with the species I think it is and what steps I’ll take next.
NailNerd NailNerd
Good plan—just remember the smallest notch in a board can spell trouble later. Log every reading, then we can map the infestation. Let me know the verdict and we’ll figure the fix. Happy hunting!