Woodworm
Treatment

Woodworm is the common name for the larvae of several species of wood-boring beetles that tunnel through and consume timber, gradually weakening floorboards, roof timbers, joists, rafters, door frames, and furniture. Over months and years, untreated woodworm infestations can severely compromise the structural integrity of a building, leading to costly repairs, insurance disputes, and in extreme cases, partial structural failure. Early identification and professional treatment are essential to preserving your property and avoiding major renovation expenses.

Woodworm Species Found in the UK

Different woodworm species attack different types of timber and require different treatment strategies. Correct identification is the foundation of effective control:

• Common Furniture Beetle — the most widespread UK species. Adults are 3-5mm long and leave exit holes of approximately 2mm. They attack softwoods and hardwoods, including floorboards, furniture, and structural timbers with moisture content above 10%.
• Deathwatch Beetle — larger and more destructive. They prefer hardwoods, particularly oak, and are commonly found in historic buildings, churches, and older properties. Their tunnelling can extend deep into structural beams.
• House Longhorn Beetle — primarily attacks softwood roof timbers in properties built between 1930 and 1965. Exit holes are oval and up to 10mm, making them the most visibly obvious species. They are a notifiable pest in some regions.
• Powderpost Beetle — prefers hardwoods with high starch content, such as oak, ash, and walnut. They leave a fine, flour-like frass beneath exit holes and are frequently found in hardwood flooring and imported timber.

Signs of Woodworm Infestation

Woodworm activity is often hidden until damage becomes visible. Knowing what to look for allows for early intervention:

• Small round or oval exit holes — the most obvious sign, ranging from 1mm to 10mm depending on the species. Fresh holes have clean, sharp edges and may have fine sawdust around them.
• Frass (bore dust) — fine, powdery wood particles accumulating beneath exit holes, on floorboards, or on beams. Active infestations produce fresh frass continuously.
• Crumbling or weakened timber — floorboards that feel springy, skirting boards that crumble when pressed, or furniture legs that feel hollow.
• Tunnels visible in broken timber — if a piece of affected wood is broken, you may see a network of tiny tunnels inside.
• Adult beetles — small beetles emerging from timber between May and September, often seen on window sills where they have flown toward light.

Active vs Historic Infestations

Not all woodworm holes indicate a live infestation. Historic damage may have occurred years ago with no current beetle activity. Our survey determines whether the infestation is active by assessing frass freshness, the presence of live larvae or beetles, and environmental conditions. Treating historic damage unnecessarily wastes money; missing active damage risks serious structural harm. This is why a professional timber survey is always recommended before committing to treatment.

Our Woodworm Treatment Methods

We apply professional-grade timber preservatives and insecticides using the most appropriate method for the timber type, location, and severity of infestation:

• Brush application — ideal for exposed timbers, furniture, and small areas where controlled coverage is required.
• Spray treatment — efficient for large surface areas such as floorboards, loft timbers, and roof beams.
• Injection treatment — targeted insecticide injected deep into timber through drilled holes, reaching larvae and eggs hidden inside structural beams and thick timbers.
• Paste and gel formulations — applied to vertical or overhead surfaces where liquids might drip or run.
• Structural timber replacement — for timbers that are too severely damaged to be saved, we can advise on safe replacement and treat surrounding areas to prevent spread.

All treatments use British Standards-approved products that penetrate deep into the timber and provide long-lasting protection against reinfestation.

Protecting Your Property After Treatment

Woodworm thrives in damp timber. Controlling moisture levels is the most effective long-term prevention strategy. We advise on improving ventilation, repairing leaks, maintaining gutters, and ensuring subfloor voids remain dry. Combined with our treatment, these measures create an environment where woodworm beetles cannot survive or reinfest.

If you have noticed exit holes, crumbling timber, or suspect woodworm in your property, book a professional timber survey today. Early diagnosis and treatment saves thousands of pounds in avoidable repair costs.