Ever spotted strange beetles around damp wood or old structures and wondered what they were? There’s a good chance you’re dealing with wharf borers. While they’re not as infamous as termites, wharf borers can still pose a serious problem, especially for older buildings with decaying wood or areas near water.
In this blog, we’ll explore how to identify these beetles, why they’re drawn to your property, and most importantly—how to get rid of them effectively using pest control services in Singapore.
What is a Wharf Borer?
The wharf borer (Nacerdes melanura) is a small, orange-brown beetle with black-tipped wings. These insects are usually found near rotting, damp wood—especially in coastal areas or places with high humidity. They don’t eat fresh wood, but they thrive in moist, decaying timber, making them a sign of underlying structural issues in a property.
Even though adult wharf borers don’t cause direct damage, their larvae can be destructive, boring into decaying timber and contributing to long-term rot. That’s where professional pest control services become necessary.
Signs of Wharf Borer Infestation
If you think you’ve got a wharf borer problem, here are some telltale signs:
- Presence of adult beetles near windows, wooden structures, or basements
- Small exit holes in damp or rotting timber
- Accumulation of fine wood dust
- In some cases, you might notice an odd, musty smell from decaying wood
Once you spot these signs, it’s time to consider pest removal in Singapore through a reputable pest company in Singapore like MET.
How to Get Rid of Wharf Borer?
Identify and Remove Affected Wood
Wharf borers only thrive in decaying wood. Locating the source and removing the damaged wood is the first step. This may mean replacing old support beams, flooring, or outdoor wooden structures.
Dry the Area Thoroughly
These beetles love moisture. Fix any leaks, improve ventilation, and use dehumidifiers to dry out damp areas. The less moisture, the less chance of infestation.
Use Insecticides When Needed
In some cases, targeted chemical treatments may be needed to kill off larvae inside the wood. This should be done by a trained pest control service in Singapore to ensure safe and effective application.
Seal Cracks and Gaps
After treatment, it’s vital to seal entry points to prevent future infestations. This includes sealing wooden joints, window frames, and gaps in exterior walls.
Engage a Professional Pest Control Service
Because wharf borers are a sign of deeper issues like wood decay and moisture; a one-time solution won’t cut it. A thorough inspection and treatment from a licensed pest control service near me is essential for long-term protection.
Why Call MET for Wharf Borer Removal?
At MET, we understand how frustrating it is to deal with hidden pests like wharf borers. Our team offers reliable pest removal in Singapore that doesn’t just treat the symptoms—it targets the root cause. Whether you’re managing a home, shop, warehouse, or coastal property, we bring years of experience in identifying and eliminating wood-boring pests.
MET is not just another pest company in Singapore. We’re a comprehensive met service in Singapore that combines advanced detection tools, safe pest control methods, and customer-centric solutions.
Our pest control services near me are available across Singapore, and we respond promptly because we know how quickly pest issues can escalate.
Prevention Tips for Wharf Borer
- Keep wood structures dry and well-ventilated
- Regularly inspect older wooden elements for signs of decay
- Avoid storing timber directly on damp soil or floors
- Engage regular pest control services to inspect and maintain your property
Final Thoughts
Wharf borers may not be the most well-known pests, but they can still cause serious damage if ignored. Understanding what attracts them—and acting fast—is key. If you suspect a problem, don’t delay. Get in touch with a trusted pest control service near me like MET and protect your property from hidden threats.
With the right help, pest removal in Singapore doesn’t have to be stressful. Choose MET for effective, professional, and long-lasting solutions from a reliable pest company in Singapore.

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FAQs
Remove any decaying or damp wood, dry the area thoroughly, and contact a professional pest control service in Singapore to apply targeted treatments.
The best pest control includes fumigation, wood preservatives, and expert assessment from a pest control service near me for complete eradication.
Use resistant plant varieties, remove crop residues, rotate crops, and apply biological or chemical controls when necessary.
Use treated timber, maintain protective coatings, and regularly inspect underwater structures to prevent marine borer infestations.
Early detection, application of insecticides around the root zone, and improving soil health help in effective root borer control.
Cut and destroy infested plant parts, monitor for early signs, and apply recommended insecticides to manage top borer infestations.