wasps eating deck

For the last 2 summers we have had problems on our deck where many yellow/black wasps come and chew on the wood.  You can hear and see their chew marks (they are not burrowing into the deck, simply scraping off the external layer of wood [presumably to build a nest somewhere else]).

Thank you.

This is actually a common behavior out in the woods. Wasps will forage for cellulose (wood) which is in fact used for nest making. Decks and house siding make an excellent source of this much needed resource and when left unprotected, most any deck will be targeted.

Stopping them is easy. As detailed in our WASP CONTROL ARTICLE, you have two options. The CYPERMETHRIN sprayed onto the deck will stop them immediately. It's easy to use and can be applied as needed. I use it on my deck 1-2 in early spring and that seems to do the job for the summer. Gallons will cover 500-750 sq/ft so it goes a long way. The second product is the INSECT REPELLENT. This can be used in either stain or paint used on the deck. When applied this way, as an additive, treatments with it will last 1-2 years making it the best long term resolution. But you can also spray it like the Cypermethrin onto the deck surface. When used as a spray, it will only last a month or so.

Here are direct links to the information and products mentioned above:

Wasp Control: http://www.wasps.net/wasp-and-hornet-control

Cypermethrin:  http://www.bugspray.com/catalog/products/page154.html

Insect Repellent: http://www.non-toxic-pest-control.com/repellents/nbs-repellent-insect-spray