Barns in Middle Tennessee face plenty of challenges from the weather, but pests can be just as damaging. Insects, birds, and rodents don’t just create a nuisance — they can weaken wood, corrode coatings, and shorten the lifespan of your barn. At J & J Protective Coatings, we often see signs of pest damage when restoring barns, which is why pest awareness and prevention go hand-in-hand with protective coatings.
Termites and Carpenter Ants
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The Problem: These wood-destroying insects feed on or tunnel through barn wood, causing structural beams and siding to weaken over time.
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Impact on Coatings: Paint and coatings may blister or crack as the wood beneath them deteriorates, exposing more surface area to moisture and future damage.
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Solution: Regular inspections and prompt treatment of infestations, combined with sealing wood surfaces to make them less appealing to pests.
Wood-Boring Beetles
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The Problem: Beetle larvae bore deep into wood, leaving behind tunnels and exit holes that weaken boards.
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Impact on Coatings: Even with paint, the hidden damage underneath can cause boards to crumble, requiring replacement.
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Solution: Applying durable coatings and replacing badly affected boards helps cut off entry points.
Rodents (Mice and Rats)
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The Problem: Rodents chew on wood, wiring, and insulation, creating safety hazards as well as structural issues.
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Impact on Coatings: While they don’t usually eat paint, gnaw marks and nesting behavior leave surfaces exposed and vulnerable.
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Solution: Keep feed stored securely, seal small gaps, and ensure coatings are applied to block moisture from chewed areas.
Birds and Bats
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The Problem: Nests and droppings damage siding, stain paint, and introduce moisture and bacteria.
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Impact on Coatings: Bird droppings are acidic, which means they can eat away at paint and coatings, leaving visible damage and weakened protection.
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Solution: Install deterrents, remove nests responsibly, and clean and recoat affected surfaces.
Carpenter Bees
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The Problem: These bees bore holes into wooden siding and beams to create nests. Over time, these holes compromise structural integrity.
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Impact on Coatings: While paint can discourage them somewhat, once they bore through, coatings lose effectiveness and the wood beneath is left exposed.
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Solution: Regularly inspect for entry holes, seal them, and apply protective finishes to deter new activity.
Protecting Your Barn from Pest Damage
The right protective coatings help shield your barn from more than just sun and rain — they also make it harder for pests to penetrate and cause long-term damage. Combined with good maintenance and pest control, professional barn coatings ensure your structure stays strong, safe, and attractive for years.
Safeguard Your Barn Today
If pests or weather have already left your barn vulnerable, it’s time for a restoration. At J & J Protective Coatings, we repair damage, replace weakened boards, and apply coatings designed to resist the challenges of Tennessee’s climate — and the pests that come with it. Call us today for a free consultation and let us help you keep your barn protected from every angle.