As with any insecticide, you must follow the specific instructions on the label of the product you buy. Since pest control operators have access to a wider range of insecticides and equipment, your best option may be to employ a professional. In situations where spot treatments have failed or in serious infestations where there are large numbers of beetles throughout the structure, fumigation may be the best control option. The penetration of fumigants can kill wood-boring beetles in all areas of the home. However, fumigants cannot prevent future wood-boring beetle infestations.
Fumigation is expensive, complicated and can only be done by a certified pest control operator.
Before employing a professional, get quotes from several reputable firms. Prepared by Eric P. Benson and Patricia A. Zungoli, Extension Entomologists, Clemson University. This information is supplied with the understanding that no discrimination is intended and no endorsement by the Clemson University Cooperative Extension Service is implied. Common and brand names of pesticides are given as a convenience and are neither an endorsement nor guarantee of the product nor a suggestion that similar products are not effective. All recommendations for pesticides use are for South Carolina only and were legal at the time of publication, but the status of registration and use patterns are subject to change by action of state and federal regulatory agencies.