If untreated, woodworm can lead to serious structural problems.
- Woodworm damage looks like small pin holes on wooden objects
- The dust from their boring is called frass
- Woodworm is a collective name for the larvae of wood boring beetles
- These are seasonal pests
- The woodworm season runs from May to October
- It attacks both internal and external timber
- The larvae can spend 3 to 4 years beneath the surface of the wood, increasing in size
- Wood boring beetles are attracted to light and can be found on window sills
- The woodworm that causes the most problems in the UK is the Common Furniture Beetle
- Woodworm problems can be serious, causing structural weakness
- Woodworm thrives in moist environments
- If the moisture content of timber drops below 15%, the woodworm makes little progress
- They cannot survive in very dry timber (anything below 12% humidity)
- Depending on age and the mix of wood, it is common to find woodworm damage in one area of a structure but not another
DIAGNOSIS
Nuisance scale: 9/10 HIGH
Can cause damage to both furniture and wooden structures. Can lead to major construction work if left unchecked.
Hazard: 5/10 MODERATE
Don’t spread disease but, if left to continue eating wood, structures can become unsafe and hazardous. An indirect hazard, destruction of areas of your building can lead to breaking, bowing and collapse of areas.
HOW WE TREAT THIS PEST
Ssfe Pest Control are experienced in dealing with woodworm infestations and offer a 5 year warranty with treatments. Please contact your local technician. All treatments are tailored to our customers needs.
VITAL STATISTICS
Length: Woodworm beetles vary in size from 4mm to 11mm depending on the species
INTERESTING FACTS
- Woodworm has caused problems at Westminster Hall over the years
- Woodworms are picky, preferring some kinds of wood over others
- The Deathwatch Beetle is indigenous to Britain