Bees in Your Siding? Here’s What to Do (4 Steps)
Discovering bees buzzing around and nesting in your siding can be surprising and concerning for any homeowner. While bees play a crucial role in our ecosystem as pollinators, having them reside in your home’s siding is less than ideal.
Rescue My Roof has been working with homeowners for over a decade, helping them achieve siding solutions to keep their homes safe for a lifetime. We’ve seen it all – from pests in your siding to hail damage to sun fading. While we may not be the best solution to get rid of pests like bees, we can give you the resources to deal with your pest problem ASAP.
Here’s what you need to know about dealing with bees in your siding safely and effectively.
Identifying the Bees
Before taking any action, it’s essential to identify the type of bees you are dealing with. Different bees require different approaches:
- Honeybees: Generally non-aggressive and vital for pollination, honeybees are often protected by law.
- Bumblebees: These larger, fuzzy bees are also important pollinators and are usually less aggressive.
- Carpenter Bees: Known for boring into wood, these bees can cause structural damage.
- Wasps or Hornets: These insects are more aggressive and can be dangerous, and they are often mistaken for bees.
4 Steps to Take When You Have Bees in Your Siding
Once you’ve identified what type of bees you’re dealing with, you’ll know whether or not you need to take a more aggressive approach. For honeybees and bumblebees, it may be best to leave them alone. For wasps or hornets, you can follow the four steps below.
1. Confirm the Presence of Bees
Look for increased bee activity around your siding. Bees typically enter and exit through small openings. You may also hear buzzing sounds if they are nesting within the walls.
2. Avoid Disturbing the Nest
Do not attempt to seal the entrance or disturb the nest. Bees can become aggressive if they feel threatened, and sealing them in can cause them to find their way into your home.
3. Contact a Professional
Hire a professional pest control service or a beekeeper to assess the situation. Professionals have the knowledge and tools to safely remove and relocate bees without harming them or causing damage to your home.
4. Consider the Timing
If the bees are honeybees, consider their activity level. It’s best to address the issue during early spring or late fall when the colony is smaller.
Bee Removal Methods
For Honeybees and Bumblebees:
- Beekeepers: Beekeepers can often safely relocate honeybee colonies. This is the preferred method, as it preserves the bees and their environmental contribution.
- Pest Control Services: Some pest control companies specialize in humane bee removal.
For Carpenter Bees:
- Pest Control Services: These bees may require specific treatment to eliminate and prevent further damage.
- Preventative Measures: After removal, seal any exposed wood and paint or stain the surface to deter future infestations.
For Wasps or Hornets:
- Pest Control Services: Due to their aggressive nature, hiring professionals for removal is crucial.
Preventing Future Infestations
After removing the bees, take steps to prevent future infestations:
- Seal Entry Points: Inspect your siding for gaps, cracks, or holes, and seal them with caulk or appropriate materials.
- Regular Maintenance: Keep your home’s exterior well-maintained. This includes painting or staining wood surfaces to deter carpenter bees.
- Remove Attractants: Bees are attracted to certain scents. Avoid leaving sugary foods or drinks outside that could attract them.
Legal and Environmental Considerations
Be mindful of the legal and environmental implications of removing bees. Honeybees are protected in many areas due to their ecological importance. Ensure that any removal method complies with local regulations and prioritizes the preservation of these vital pollinators.
Contacting a Pest Control Professional
Finding bees in your siding can be alarming, but handling the situation calmly and correctly is essential for the safety of both you and the bees. You can ensure a safe and effective resolution by identifying the type of bees, avoiding disturbing the nest, and contacting a professional.
Additionally, taking preventative measures can help keep your home bee-free in the future. Remember, while bees can be a nuisance when they nest in your siding, they play a critical role in our ecosystem and should be handled with care and respect.
Learn more about siding with “7 Best Tips for Long-Term Vinyl Siding Maintenance” and “How Long Does Vinyl Siding Last?”
While Rescue My Roof cannot help with pest control, we do offer roofing, siding, and gutter services. If you’re dealing with roofing issues in southeastern Wisconsin, we’ve got you covered. Contact us today to get a free estimate.
