I have a pile of cut and split oak that shows fine dust from what I think are powder post beetles. Should I be extra careful about bringing that wood inside to burn?
I’ve gotten into the habit of leaving wood right outside the basement door, mainly because the stove and old firewood storage area is feet from the man cave. Don’t need creepy crawlies landing on me or Fire Flake while relaxing on the couch.
Hehehehehe....now you got him staring at the jar of peanut butter....just wondering. ... I can't imagine the things we have eaten and didn't even know it... If a bug is the "worst thing" (i doubt it), then we're doing pretty good!
and rice and beans (pantry moths) powder post beetles really like red maple here and I won't bring in more than a day's worth I have a little shed by the back door for a few days supply and that gets moved away when it isn't need out of season
I dont store wood inside. I have it just outside ready to go when needed. Ask anyone on here that burns hardwood and i think its a given for some type of borer making dust on your splits. IMO i wouldnt worry, but if youre that concerned burn it right away.
The only bugs I look forward to eating, are those ocean-going insects, with the big claws that turn red when put in boiling water.
Usually powder post beetles get in the wood a few months after cutting, while plenty of moisture in it. Never had a problem with them once wood is dry. Got in some hickory we had, just knocked dust off and burned it.
Chances are the beetles have moved on and it is okay to burn the wood. But we still feel it is best to leave wood outdoors until it is time to go into the stove, otherwise all sort of insects and flying things can come out of the wood. And if there is any loose bark then wood roaches can be a huge problem, but that is taken care of if you immediately put the wood in a hot stove.
I notice what looks like fresh fine powder fairly regularly in my stack. Not every piece but not uncommon at all. I’d limit wood brought indoors to as little as feasible and not worry about it.
