Woodworm is a common problem that can affect both indoor and outdoor wooden structures. Woodworm can cause serious damage to wooden furniture, floors, roof beams, and other structures, so it is important to take action if you suspect an infestation. In this blog post, we will discuss what woodworm is, the signs to look out for, and how to treat woodworm.
What is woodworm?
Woodworm is not a worm, but a term used to describe the larvae of any number of beetle species that live in and eat wood.
The most common type of woodworm is the Common Furniture Beetle. It can be identified by its small, dark brown body and distinctive zigzag pattern on its wing case. The larvae leave eggs in small cracks on your furniture and floorboards where it hatches into an active baby termite who starts burrowing towards any nearby piece(s) of wood. Woodworm life cycle is up to 5 years, during which it can cause a significant amount of trouble.
What are the signs of woodworm
The beetle typically starts with an exit hole. The larva has pupated, turned into a beetle, and bored its way out of the wood structure, creating a network of tunnels that weaken the timber’s structure. If you are seeing small holes in your wooden furniture, floors, doorways or notice that the wood is starting to crumble, then there is a good chance that your home has been invaded by woodworms.
The adult beetles only live for 2 weeks at most, so dead beetles are another sign of a woodworm infestation. By the time you see them, it’s too late to undo the damage. but it’s essential to stop them before they can breed again.
The larvae thrive in a high moisture content, so make sure you keep your home well heated and ventilated. Always check any antique and 2nd hand wooden furniture for any signs of potential unwanted guests.
How to treat woodworm
If you suspect infestation, its best to leave treatment to specialists. LC Joinery will conduct a professional woodworm survey to establish the extent of the problem and recommend a suitable course of treatment. All our work is guaranteed, and we are a member of the Guild of Master Craftsmen, the Federation of Master Builders, the Construction Skills Certificate Scheme, and is a Which? Trusted Trader and a licensed asbestos removal contractor. You can read about our qualifications here.
Call LC Joinery at 01592 747 047 or email us at [email protected].
