Woodworm

WHAT IS WOODWORM?
Woodworm is the common name for the larvae of wood-boring beetles that infest timber and feed from within. As they tunnel through the wood, they leave behind small round exit holes and a fine, powdery dust called frass.
If left untreated, woodworm can weaken floorboards, beams, joists, furniture, and other structural timbers, affecting both the safety and appearance of your home.
The good news is that with early detection and professional treatment, woodworm can be effectively eliminated, protecting your property’s timber for the future.
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Causes of Woodworm
Woodworm infestations occur when adult beetles lay eggs on or just beneath the surface of timber. Once hatched, the larvae bore deep into the wood, feeding and creating tunnels until they eventually emerge as adult beetles to repeat the cycle.
Timber is most at risk when it is:
- Untreated or old
- Damp or exposed to condensation
- Located in poorly ventilated areas such as lofts, basements, or under floorboards
Preventing dry rot involves managing moisture effectively, fixing leaks quickly, and ensuring good ventilation throughout your home.
Signs of Woodworm
Look out for the following common indicators:
- Small, round holes in timber (1–2 mm in diameter)
- Fine powdery dust (frass) near affected areas
- Crumbling edges on beams, joists, or furniture
- Weak or damaged floorboards that may give way under pressure
- Visible adult beetles during summer months
Early detection helps prevent extensive and costly repairs.

WOODWORM TREATMENT & SOLUTIONS
At Damp Clear South West, we provide effective woodworm treatments tailored to the type and severity of infestation. Our process includes:
- Professional Survey: Identifying the beetle species and level of damage.
- Specialist Treatment: Applying professional-grade woodworm treatment solutions that penetrate timber to kill active larvae and protect against future infestations.
- Timber Repair or Replacement: Where necessary, replacing severely damaged wood to restore strength and safety.
- Prevention Measures: Improving ventilation and reducing moisture levels to make timber less attractive to wood-boring insects.
With the right treatment and ongoing care, your property can be fully protected from further woodworm problems.
PROPERTY SURVEY
If you suspect a woodworm infestation, our qualified surveyors can carry out a full inspection to assess the problem and provide a detailed report.
At Damp Clear South West, we specialise in protecting properties from timber decay and insect attack. All treatments are carried out by trained professionals and backed by our 10-year guarantee.
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