Any way to get rid of carpenter bumble bees short of killing them?

I think killing them is fine. You can use a dust product to dry out the eggs. I have also heard that fresh paint on eaves, underneath benches etc., may stop them from boring holes. http://www.pestproducts.com/carpenterbees.htm lots of info about the carpenter bees.

Not that I have ever heard. I had a problem with them and had to kill them. On second thought, that was some time ago, you might to a Google search for bee repellants. There are chemicals that bees just don't like and will not come near.

My contractor sealed up the holes they had bored, trapping the eggs to die and they never returned. I wouldn't have any qualms about killing them though as they are so destructive.

You could try some Irish Spring soap. Throw the bars where you think they will be, they usually return to the same place every year. I put some up on the ceiling of my porch where squirrels were nesting and where the carpenter bees always go and they have moved on. The soap is not expensive.

Ok so when you see the carpenter bees be sure to have the the specific bee spray control at all access.Soap is not for bees,in fact it will attract them more.Just make sure if they have already done damage to your wood use a spray foam to seal the holes.

This time of year, I keep a spray bottle of white vinegar on my porch. They do not like it but will still try to come back. After three or four squirts, they give up.

thanks I will try it.