The most commonly infested woods include ash, oak, hickory and walnut. It is also possible, though unlikely, that such an infestation could spread to hardwood furniture, trim, paneling, or flooring if left untreated. Female beetles emerging from infested wood search for a mate, and then lay their eggs on a suitable piece of wood. The most common site for egg-laying appears to be exit holes from which the females have emerged. In this way beetles can reinfest finished wood.
Infestations can also spread to adjacent wood as larvae chew their way from one piece to another.
The most economical control method is removal and replacement of infested wood pieces. Where damage is limited, this is the simplest and most practical solution. It is difficult, however, to know whether all infested wood has been removed. Painting infested wood surfaces with pesticides is another option. Before painting infested wood with a residual insecticide, all infested wood should first be stripped of paint or other finishes.