The Complete Guide to Woodworm Treatment

If you're worried about woodworm invading your property, Croft Preservation are here to help. As property care experts, we can guide you through everything from spotting the early signs to effective prevention and treatment. Keep reading to learn how to protect your home!

What is Woodworm? 

Woodworm is actually the larval stage of various beetle species. After hatching from eggs, these larvae burrow into wood, feeding on its cellulose. They create tunnels as they eat their way through the wood over the course of several years. When they finally mature, the larvae emerge as adult beetles. These adult beetles then mate and lay eggs, starting the cycle all over again. This means that a single infestation can last for many years.

Although woodworms themselves aren't harmful to your health, the structural damage they cause can weaken the integrity of your home. It's important to address an infestation early to minimise the risk and prevent further damage.

How Can I Tell If I Have Woodworm in My Home? 

Woodworm can be tricky to detect, but there are a few telltale signs to watch out for:

• Exit holes: Small, round holes in the wood, typically 1-3mm in diameter. These are where the adult beetles emerge.
• Frass: Fine, powdery dust resembling sawdust. It's often found around exit holes.
• Tunnels: Visible tunnels within the wood caused by the woodworm larvae.
• Damaged wood: Weakened or crumbling wood, often with a honeycomb appearance.
• Live or dead beetles: Small, brown beetles might be found crawling around or dead near the infested area.

Keep in mind that exit holes don't always mean there's an active infestation. Old holes might be from a previous problem. To check if the infestation is still active, you can clean the area around the suspected holes and look for fresh frass after a few days. Another method is to mark the existing holes with a coloured marker. If you notice new holes appearing, it's a sign that the infestation is active.

Can I Treat a Woodworm Infestation Myself? 

Tackling woodworm yourself is possible if you have the right know-how and equipment, but it's usually best to bring in a professional property care expert. Woodworm infestations can burrow deep into your home's structure and spread unnoticed, making it hard to fully assess the problem. Professionals have the expertise and specialised tools to pinpoint the extent of the damage, identify the type of woodworm, and develop the most effective treatment plan.

Aside from specialist treatment, one of the best ways to get rid of woodworm is to take steps to prevent it from coming back. Here are some key measures you can take:

• Improve airflow throughout your home
• Fix any leaks or damp areas quickly
• Treat wood that has been affected by water damage 

How Will a Specialist Treat a Woodworm Infestation?

A woodworm specialist will conduct a thorough assessment to determine the best course of action. This typically involves a visual inspection to identify the woodworm species, the extent of damage, and the affected areas. They'll also assess the moisture levels, as damp or rotting wood can exacerbate woodworm infestations.

Treatment methods vary based on the severity of the infestation and the type of woodworm present. Common approaches include:

• Spray treatment: Applying a water-based insecticide directly to the affected areas. This method is suitable for less severe infestations.
• Injection treatment: A more targeted approach involving the injection of a woodworm-killing gel or paste into the wood. This is often done through existing woodworm holes or newly drilled ones.
• Fumigation: Reserved for severe infestations, fumigation involves sealing the property and filling it with a gas that kills the woodworm. It's a more invasive and costly method and tends to be less common.
• Timber replacement: In cases of extensive damage, replacing the affected timber might be the only viable solution.

Beyond the treatment, specialists often offer advice on preventative measures to protect your property from future infestations, such as improving ventilation to reduce moisture levels.

Enjoy a Pest-Free Home with Croft Preservation 

Tired of woodworm ruining your home? Look no further than Croft Preservation, the South's trusted expert in damp, rot, and woodworm control for over 25 years!

We'll carefully assess the woodworm problem and eradicate it, using effective treatments tailored to your situation. Our experienced team will then expertly repair any damage and shield your timber with a long-lasting protective coating, so you can enjoy peace of mind knowing your home is safe from future infestations.

Ready to reclaim your peace of mind? Book a survey online or call us on 01202 737739 today. We're here to help!