Woodworm
What is woodworm?
Woodworm refers to the larvae of various species of wood-boring beetles that can infest and damage timber in homes and buildings. These larvae tunnel through wood as they feed, creating small holes and weakening the timber over time. Woodworm can affect both old and new timber, and it’s important to identify and treat infestations early before they cause serious damage.
In the UK, the most common woodworm species include:
- Common furniture beetle
- Deathwatch beetle
- House longhorn beetle
- Powderpost beetle
Each of these beetles can cause serious damage to your structure during their lifecycle, so treating it quickly is important. If you suspect a woodworm problem, our team at Damp HQ offers thorough woodworm surveys and expert treatment to protect your property.
Book a Woodworm Survey today and get expert advice tailored to your home.
Book Your Woodworm Survey
What causes Woodworm?
Wood-boring beetles are attracted to timber with a high moisture content. Damp, soft wood is easier for the larvae to tunnel through, making homes with poor ventilation, high humidity, or water damage more susceptible to infestation.
Common causes of woodworm include:
- Damp timber due to leaks, poor drainage, or high humidity
- Inadequate ventilation, especially in subfloor areas or attics
- Old or untreated wood that has been weakened over time
Preventing woodworm is often easier than treating it, so ensuring your home is well-ventilated and free from damp is key.
For advice on damp proofing, visit our Damp proofing page
What are the signs of woodworm?
Woodworm can be difficult to spot in the early stages, as the larvae do most of their damage beneath the surface of the timber. However, there are some tell-tale signs that can indicate an infestation:
Small round holes
These are exit holes where adult beetles have emerged, typically 2-4mm in diameter.
Powdery dust (frass)
This is left behind by larvae as they tunnel through the wood.
Tunnels or grooves
Visible when the surface of the timber is scored with small lines.
Beetles
Adult wood-boring beetles may be seen emerging from the timber, particularly during warmer months.
Why is woodworm a problem?
Woodworm can remain in its larval stage for several years, continuing to feed and weaken the timber throughout this period. If left untreated, woodworm infestations can severely compromise the structural integrity of your home, leading to potentially dangerous conditions, especially in floors, beams, and roof timbers.
Adult wood-boring beetles can also spread the infestation as they emerge and lay eggs in nearby timber, making the problem more widespread over time. This is why early detection and treatment are crucial.
At Damp HQ, we use proven woodworm treatments to eliminate infestations and protect your timber from further damage.
How is Woodworm treated
Our woodworm treatment process involves several key steps to ensure the infestation is properly dealt with. By acting quickly and using the right methods, we can stop woodworm in its tracks and prevent future infestations.
Survey & Identification
We start with a thorough inspection to identify the species of woodworm and the extent of the infestation.
Moisture Control
Since damp timber attracts woodworm, we check for any underlying moisture problems and offer damp-proofing solutions to prevent further issues.
Treatment Application
A specialist insecticidal treatment is applied to the affected areas to eliminate larvae and prevent adult beetles from emerging.
Timber Repair
In cases where the damage is extensive, we may recommend replacing or repairing severely affected timbers to restore structural integrity.
Prevention Tips
Preventing wet rot from occurring in the first place is always better than dealing with the aftermath. Here are a few tips to keep your home rot-free:
Reduce Moisture
Fix any leaks and address damp problems to make your home less attractive to wood-boring beetles.
Improve Ventilation
Make sure that subfloor spaces, lofts, and crawl spaces have good airflow.
Regular Inspection
Carry out routine checks of timber structures, especially in older homes.
Other Treatments
Dry Rot Treatment
Dry rot can cause significant damage. Our professional dry rot treatment stops it in its tracks.
Mould Removal
Whether you’re dealing with black mould or general damp issues, we'll offer a unique solution.
Schedule Your Free Woodworm Survey Today!
Don’t let woodworm spoil your home. Book a survey with Damp HQ and our qualified experts will inspect your property, identify any issues, and provide a solution to keep your home safe and dry.
