Richmond’s warm, humid climate makes it a welcoming environment for many different insects. Unfortunately, some of these pests can cause significant damage to your home’s structure, finishes, and even electrical systems if left unchecked. At Richmond Handyman Services, we not only help homeowners identify damage caused by insects but also provide the repairs needed to restore safety, value, and comfort to your property.

Below are some of the most common insect culprits in the Richmond area and the types of repairs they often make necessary.

1. Termites
Perhaps the most notorious household pest, termites are a serious threat to homes in central Virginia. Subterranean termites, which are common in Richmond, feed on the wooden framework of houses, often working quietly behind walls and beneath floors. Over time, this can weaken structural beams, flooring, and even door and window frames.

Possible Repairs: Richmond Handyman Services can replace rotted wood, reinforce framing, repair baseboards and trim, and restore damaged flooring. Prompt repair is critical, since untreated termite damage can lead to costly structural problems.

2. Carpenter Ants
Like termites, carpenter ants nest in wood. They don’t actually eat the wood, but they hollow it out to create tunnels, which weakens structures. These ants are often found in damp or water-damaged areas, such as basements, crawl spaces, or around leaky windows and roofs.

Possible Repairs: After addressing the moisture problem that attracted the ants, repairs may include replacing water-damaged wood, resealing windows and doors, and repairing sections of siding or roofing.

3. Powderpost Beetles
These small beetles lay eggs inside wood. When the larvae hatch, they bore through hardwood, leaving tiny holes and fine powder (or “frass”). Over time, this can damage hardwood floors, furniture, and even structural timbers.

Possible Repairs: Repairs may involve replacing damaged hardwood flooring, refinishing surfaces, and in severe cases, reinforcing or replacing structural wood members.

4. Carpenter Bees
Carpenter bees bore into wood to create nesting tunnels, often targeting eaves, decks, and outdoor siding. While they rarely cause widespread structural damage, the repeated tunneling weakens exposed wood and can leave unsightly holes.

Possible Repairs: Richmond Handyman Services can patch and fill holes, sand and refinish surfaces, and replace decking or fascia boards if damage is extensive. We also recommend sealing and painting exposed wood to prevent future infestations.

5. Household Cockroaches
Although cockroaches don’t eat wood like termites or beetles, they can still damage your home. Roaches often chew on fabrics, books, and wallpaper paste, and their droppings can stain surfaces. They also contribute to indoor allergens that can harm your family’s health.

Possible Repairs: Handyman repairs may include replacing chewed wallpaper, repainting walls, repairing baseboards, and sealing cracks and crevices where pests enter.

Protecting and Repairing Your Richmond Home
Insect damage can range from minor cosmetic issues to serious structural threats. At Richmond Handyman Services, we help homeowners repair the aftermath of infestations—whether that means replacing damaged wood, patching holes, or restoring finishes. Just as important, we help seal entry points and repair moisture issues that make homes more attractive to pests in the first place.

If you suspect insect damage in your Richmond home, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Contact Richmond Handyman Services today for expert evaluation and reliable repairs that restore your home’s beauty, safety, and value.