Have you noticed tiny holes appearing in your furniture or woodwork? The chances are you’re dealing with woodworm, which is emerging later than usual this year due to the milder start we’ve been having to autumn.
But fear not! In this article, we’ll explain the different types of woodworm, highlight the signs to look out for and provide essential advice on treatment and prevention to keep your home safe from these pesky creatures.
What is woodworm?
Woodworm is a term for the larvae of various species of beetles that infest and feed on wood. Woodworm larvae bore holes in the wood in search of food (cellulose), creating tunnels as they grow. Once they mature into adults, they exit the wood, leaving behind small, identifiable holes. Over time, this extensive tunnelling weakens the wood, leaving it weak and damaged. If left unchecked, these tiny creatures can wreak havoc on your home, damaging wooden structures, furniture, and potentially even compromising the structural integrity of your house.
What are the different types of woodworm beetle?
There are three main types of woodworm beetle that can infest your home and damage your woodwork:
- Common Furniture Beetle (Anobium punctatum): The common furniture beetle is the most prevalent woodworm in the UK. It is reddish-brown, about 3-5mm long and has a distinctive humped shape.
- Deathwatch Beetle (Xestobium rufovillosum): This beetle infests hardwoods, particularly oak, and is often associated with damp conditions. At around 7mm long, it is larger than the furniture and has a dark brown or black colour.
- Powderpost Beetle (Lyctus brunneus): Known for primarily attacking the sapwood of hardwoods, these beetles are around 2-4mm long and often leave fine, powdery dust in their wake.
What does woodworm look like?
While you might not always see the woodworm themselves, there are some telltale signs to look out for:
- Exit Holes: Small, round holes on the wood surface, often surrounded by fine dust, indicate the emergence of adult beetles.
- Bore Dust (frass): A fine, powdery dust around the holes is a telltale sign of active infestation.
- Tunnels: Visible tunnels within the wood, often running along the grain.
- Weak or Damaged Wood: Wood that crumbles easily or shows signs of structural weakness, especially around joints or edges.
How to treat woodworm
Addressing a woodworm infestation requires careful assessment and targeted treatments by a professional like CS Damp Proofing. Treatment options depend on the species and extent of the infestation:
Surface Treatments
Insecticidal sprays or surface paste liquids are applied directly to the wood’s surface. They are effective for killing existing larvae near the surface and preventing re-infestation. They are generally most effective for early-stage infestations or as a preventative measure on bare wood.
To apply, we usually use a brush or a spray to ensure even coverage and use multiple coats when required, While this is a good measure, it’s not always effective for deep seated infestations, which may require further treatment.
Injection Treatment
Another commonly used method is injection treatment, which involves delivering insecticide directly into the woodworm tunnels to target larvae deep within the timber. This approach is most effective for established infestations where the larvae have burrowed deeply into the wood. It requires drilling small holes into the timber and injecting the insecticide with a specialised applicator. While this method is more invasive than surface spraying, it provides better penetration and long-lasting protection against woodworm infestations.
How to prevent woodworm
You can prevent woodworm infestations through some simple proactive measures, such as:
Maintain Dry Conditions: Woodworm thrives in damp environments, so ensure proper ventilation and address any moisture issues before they worsen.
Regular Inspections: Inspect wooden structures and furniture regularly for signs of infestation.
Treat New Wood: Apply a wood preservative to new wood before use to reduce the risk of woodworm infestation.
Woodworm can be a serious problem, but with early detection and appropriate treatment, it can be effectively controlled. By understanding the signs of infestation and taking preventive measures, you can protect your home and belongings from these destructive pests.
If you suspect a woodworm infestation or need further advice, please don’t hesitate to call CS Damp Proofing on 01765 452510 for a professional survey and treatment plan.