Treat Beams Without Dismantling—Here’s How

Wooden beams are an essential part of many homes, especially in older or rustic-style buildings. They add beauty and character, but they’re also prime targets for wood-boring pests like termites, woodworms, and beetles. The challenge is that these insects often burrow deep inside the beams, making treatment difficult without damaging or dismantling the structure. Fortunately, modern methods like microwave disinfestation allow you to treat beams effectively without taking them apart. Here’s how it works and how you can do it safely and successfully at home.

The key to treating beams without dismantling is using targeted heat. Microwave pest control systems, such as the Shashel Pro, are designed to emit controlled microwave energy that penetrates deep into the wood. This energy creates internal heat that kills insects at all stages of life—eggs, larvae, and adults—without harming the wood or requiring removal of beams from walls or ceilings. Unlike fumigation or surface sprays, which often fail to reach deep infestation zones, microwave treatment works from the inside out.

To begin, thoroughly inspect the beam for signs of pest activity. Look for small round holes, piles of fine dust (frass), or weakened areas where the wood sounds hollow when tapped. These signs usually indicate active or recent infestation. Mark these areas so you can focus treatment where it’s needed most. You do not need to access the entire beam—just the visible areas showing signs of damage.

Next, prepare the space around the beam. Move any flammable objects, decorations, or electronics out of the immediate area. Make sure the beam is dry, as moisture can absorb microwave energy unevenly and reduce the effectiveness of the treatment. Wear heat-resistant gloves and eye protection for safety.

Place the microwave device directly against the surface of the beam. The shashel and similar tools are portable and lightweight, allowing you to position them at various angles—even overhead. Start with the most visibly affected section and gradually move along the beam. Heat each section for a few minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the beam. The internal wood temperature should reach at least 55–60°C to ensure that all insects are eliminated.

Use a temperature sensor or thermal camera to monitor heat levels if available. Be careful not to overheat or linger in one spot too long. While the wood can handle the temperatures used in microwave treatment, overheating may cause surface discoloration or affect surrounding materials. Always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for heat duration and coverage area.

Once one section is treated, continue down the beam, slightly overlapping each zone to ensure full coverage. Most beams can be treated within an hour, depending on length and severity of infestation. You don’t need to strip paint or protective finishes beforehand, but painted beams may require slightly longer heating times for the energy to penetrate effectively.

After finishing the treatment, allow the beam to cool naturally. There is no need for cleanup, and unlike chemical treatments, there are no lingering fumes or drying periods. You can return furniture and decorations to their place immediately. The microwave system leaves no residue and is safe for indoor use.

Monitor the treated beam over the next few weeks. If new frass appears or you notice fresh holes, a second treatment may be necessary. However, most infestations are resolved with one thorough session. For prevention, regular inspection and maintaining dry, well-ventilated indoor conditions will help protect your beams from future infestations.

Using microwave technology to treat beams without dismantling is a practical and efficient solution. It allows you to preserve your home’s structure and aesthetics while eliminating pests at the source. Whether you live in a historic house or a modern wooden home, this method offers a non-invasive, eco-friendly way to protect one of your home’s most important features.