Woodworm Treatment & Solutions - London & Home Counties
Our woodworm treatment solutions, sprays, and processes have been verified and approved by leading trade bodies. This ensures that when it comes to treatment of woodworm, we are the industry leading professionals.
Our woodworm surveys and solutions eliminate problems in properties of all ages and sizes. This page contains expert help and advice that will help you understand how to treat woodworm and get rid of the larvae in structural and decorative timbers.
To speak to us about woodworm treatment in London & Home Counties. complete our contact form or call us on 0300 373 7251.
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What attracts woodworm to your home?
Each variety of wood-boring beetles prefers a different type of wood. For example, hardwoods such as ash, mahogany, and oak are preferred by some bugs. On the other hand, others favour softwoods like spruce, cedar, and pine.
When bringing second-hand furniture to your home, make sure the item is not contaminated with woodworm or have been treated. This is a crucial step in preventing pest infestations on your property. This restriction is also applicable to firewood used for fireplaces and wood burners on private property.
Woodworm-infested firewood should be stored outside the house since the woodworm can quickly spread to other wood.
How to treat woodworm?
It’s critical to get rid of wood-boring beetles while they cause serious harm to your wood. This begins with determining the beetle species and deciding on the best woodworm treatment.
The Common Furniture Beetle, the Death Watch Beetle, and the House Longhorn Beetle are the three most common wood boring insects in the United Kingdom. Woodworm prevention may not be adequate to treat and eliminate an infestation if the type of infestation is not correctly diagnosed.
Treating the following woodworm beetles:
The Common Furniture Beetle
A brush, dip, or spray application of a woodworm treatment onto all of the timbers afflicted by the woodworm is used to treat the common furniture beetle. To avoid future woodworm outbreaks, it is highly advised that the timbers in the near vicinity be treated with woodworm treatment as prophylactic.
The House Long Horn Beetle
It is the most destructive wood-boring insect, attacking the sapwood of dry softwood and growing up to 30mm long with a 10mm diameter exit hole. Within their growing cycle, the larvae of the House Long Horn beetle can cause considerable damage to wood, even eliminating the sapwood and leaving only the veneer.
The Death Watch Beetle
It prefers hardwoods such as elm and oak. Death Watch Beetle infestations may be more concentrated within the interior of big beams placed into moist walls because the beetle primarily attacks wood with active decay/rot. The infestation/damage may be undetectable except for a few emergence holes because it is deep into the wood.
Fumigation for woodworm treatment
If the woodworm infestations are active, two treatments with professional woodworm insecticide are advised, which should be done after a gap of 72 hours.
A thorough insecticidal treatment of all untreated wood is the first part of the intense fumigation treatment. First, a concentrate of this potent, licensed woodworm pesticide is spot sprayed in regions with clear zones of timber pest activity. Then the insecticide is allowed to dry and penetrate deep into the wood grain.
The second phase of this specialised timber pest treatment includes thorough fumigation and ULV fogging of the space to complete the operation. The fine fogging reaches every available nook and cranny in regions with high ceilings where there are beams of woodworm or when treating woodworm in loft spaces after that. Spot treatment occurs in areas where there is a visible activity with a professional-strength concentrate woodworm killer pesticide and fungicide, which is authorised to kill wood-boring beetles at all stages of their life cycle.
No adults will lay fresh eggs on the treated wood once it has been treated and dried intensely into the wood, and any worms in the wood will feed on tainted wood and die.
Heat treatment
Although heat treatment for woodworm outbreaks is a specialised strategy, there are times when it is the most suitable line of action.
One example is when there are things that cannot be treated with insecticides or that you do not want to be treated with insecticides. Another widespread use for this non-chemical, eco-friendly woodworm treatment is when there is both excessive and deep wetness and a woodworm infestation to address.
Moreover, a certain amount of moisture in the timber is required for all wood-boring beetles. However, wetness is a must for other insects, such as the Death Watch Beetle, since they feed on fungal growth on and in damp wood. In this case, pesticide alone will not be effective because it does not address the core cause.
In this, the heated sections are enclosed and insulated, as well as the air is gradually brought up to temperature. It is then maintained at that temperature for several hours, allowing the heat to infiltrate all nooks and corners and the wood itself.
Woodworm damp survey
Woodworm treatment can be tricky, particularly when determining the best treatment method for your property. So, consult our woodworm treatment specialists for your home now. Get an independent free damp survey from our team at Advanced Damp and receive an in depth report. Call us now on 0300 373 7251.
Why Woodworm Treatment is Important
Woodworm treatment is essential for the health and safety of your property for several reasons. Woodworms, the larvae of various species of wood-boring beetles, can cause significant damage to wooden structures and furniture if left untreated. The importance of woodworm treatment lies in the prevention and mitigation of these potential problems:
- Structural Damage
- Infestation Spread
- Reduced Property Value
- Health Risks
- Preservation of Wooden Items
Woodworm Treatment Options
When it comes to treating woodworm, you have several options. You can opt for DIY treatments, hire a professional, or even replace the infested furniture. But which option is best for you? Let’s delve into each one.
- DIY Treatments: These are readily available and can be an effective solution for minor infestations. They often involve applying a chemical treatment to the affected areas. However, they require a bit of elbow grease and a keen eye to ensure all infested areas are treated.
- Professional Services: For more severe infestations, or if you’re not comfortable handling chemicals, hiring a professional might be your best bet. Companies like AdvancedDamp offer comprehensive woodworm treatment services that can save you time and give you peace of mind.
- Replacement: In some cases, the damage might be too severe, and replacement could be the only option. However, this should be your last resort, as it can be quite costly.
The Impact of Woodworm Treatment
Understanding the impact of woodworm treatment is crucial in appreciating its importance. Let’s delve deeper into the subject.
Preserving Furniture Lifespan
The primary benefit of woodworm treatment is the preservation of your furniture’s lifespan. Untreated woodworm infestations can significantly reduce the longevity of your furniture.
According to a study by the University of Cambridge, untreated woodworm infestations can reduce the lifespan of furniture by up to 70%. This means that a piece of furniture that could have served you for a decade might barely last three years if infested with woodworm.
However, with proper treatment, you can extend the life of your furniture, ensuring it remains a part of your home for years to come. Woodworm treatment eradicates the larvae, halting the damage and preventing further infestation. This means your favourite oak table or antique chest of drawers can continue to add character and charm to your home for much longer.
Cost Savings
Woodworm treatment can also lead to significant cost savings. While there’s an upfront cost associated with treatment, whether DIY or professional, this pales in comparison to the potential cost of replacing infested furniture.
Consider this: replacing a single piece of quality wooden furniture can cost hundreds, if not thousands, of pounds. Now, imagine having to replace multiple pieces. The costs can quickly add up. By investing in woodworm treatment, you’re protecting your furniture and your wallet.
Maintaining Home Aesthetics and Value
Your furniture plays a significant role in the overall aesthetics of your home. Antique or bespoke pieces, in particular, can add a unique charm and character that’s hard to replicate. Woodworm infestations can mar the beauty of these pieces, affecting the overall look and feel of your home.
Moreover, if you’re planning to sell your home in the future, potential buyers might be put off by the signs of woodworm infestation. By treating woodworm promptly, you’re maintaining the aesthetic appeal and potential value of your home.
How long does woodworm treatment last?
Woodworm treatment typically lasts for several years, with many professional treatments offering guarantees of up to 20 to 30 years. However, the longevity of the treatment can depend on several factors including the type of wood, the extent of the infestation, and the specific treatment used.
It’s important to note that while the treatment can kill existing woodworms and larvae, it may not prevent new infestations, so regular inspections are recommended.
Natural Woodworm Treatment
There are several natural methods that can be used to treat woodworm. These include:
- Heat Treatment: Woodworms are sensitive to temperature changes. Exposing infested wood to high temperatures can kill the larvae and beetles. However, this method should be used with caution to avoid damaging the wood.
- Freezing: Similarly, exposing the wood to very low temperatures can also kill woodworms. This is typically done by sealing the wood in a plastic bag and placing it in a freezer for a few days.
- Borax/Boric Acid: Borax and boric acid are natural substances that can be used to treat woodworm. They can be mixed with water and applied to the wood. These substances kill woodworms and can also deter future infestations.
- Neem Oil: Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can be effective against woodworm. It can be applied to the wood surface and allowed to penetrate to kill larvae and beetles.
Remember, these methods may not be as effective as professional treatments, especially for larger infestations. Always consult with a pest control professional if you suspect a serious woodworm problem.
Why Choose Advanced Damp For Woodworm Treatment in London
Advanced Damp Ltd work with hundreds of well established businesses over the UK every year. With close relationships with some of the leading estate agents proving specialist property care services.
Choosing Advanced Damp for Woodworm treatment offers several benefits to property owners seeking effective and eco-friendly solutions for woodworm infestations. The company specializes in providing comprehensive services, ensuring that your property remains safe and structurally sound. Some reasons to choose Advanced Damp for woodworm treatment include:
- Customized Treatment Plans: Advanced Damp understands that each property and infestation is unique and requires tailored solutions. The company assesses the severity and extent of the infestation and devises a treatment plan that specifically addresses your property’s needs.
- Environmentally-Friendly Products: Advanced Damp is committed to using eco-friendly products and methods in their woodworm treatments. We select products that are effective in eradicating woodworms and minimize harm to the environment and the occupants of the property.
- Advanced Techniques: The company stays up-to-date with the latest developments in woodworm treatment, incorporating cutting-edge techniques into its services. This ensures that the treatment is efficient and long-lasting, preventing future infestations.
- Experienced Professionals: Advanced Damp employs a team of highly skilled and trained professionals who have extensive experience in dealing with various types of woodworm infestations. We are knowledgeable in identifying the species of wood-boring beetles and selecting the most appropriate treatment method for each case.
- Comprehensive Service: Besides woodworm treatment, Advanced Damp offers a range of other services to help protect your property from damp and related issues. This includes damp proofing, condensation control, and mould remediation, ensuring that your property remains healthy and free from damage.
- Warranty and Aftercare: Advanced Damp believes in the quality of their services and offers a warranty on their woodworm treatments. This ensures peace of mind for property owners, knowing that the company stands behind their work. We also provide aftercare support and advice to help you maintain a woodworm-free environment.
Frequently Asked Woodworm Questions
What is woodworm?
A woodworm is a term used to describe the larvae of certain species of wood-boring beetles. These larvae feed on wood and can cause damage to wooden structures and furniture. These little critters can cause significant damage to your furniture if left unchecked. But how do you know if you have a woodworm problem? Look out for small, round holes in your woodwork, or fine, powdery dust around these holes.
These are telltale signs of a woodworm infestation. Now, you might be thinking, “Is this a big deal?” Well, it can be. If left untreated, woodworm can weaken the structure of your furniture, leading to costly repairs or even replacement. But don’t worry, there’s a solution, and it’s simpler than you might think.
How do I know if I have a woodworm infestation?
Signs of a woodworm infestation include small holes in wood, powdery sawdust around the holes, and weak or damaged wood. You may also see adult beetles emerging from the wood or hear a tapping sound coming from within the wood.
What types of wood are most susceptible to woodworm?
Certain types of wood, such as softwoods like pine and spruce, are more susceptible to woodworm infestations than hardwoods like oak or maple. However, any type of wood can be affected by wood-boring beetles.
Can woodworm damage be repaired?
Yes, woodworm damage can be repaired. Depending on the extent of the damage, the affected wood may need to be replaced or treated with a wood preservative.
Where Can I find a Woodworm Treatment Specialist?
AdvancedDamp is a leading provider of woodworm treatment services in the UK. But why should you choose us? Well, let’s break it down.
Expertise: With years of experience under our belt, we’ve seen it all. We know how to effectively treat woodworm infestations, no matter the severity.
Quality Service: We pride ourselves on providing top-notch service. From the moment you contact us to the completion of the treatment, we’re with you every step of the way.
Affordable: We believe that everyone should have access to quality woodworm treatment services. That’s why we offer competitive pricing without compromising on service quality.