Woodworm is a pest infestation that can wreak havoc on timber. Fortunately, with appropriate prevention techniques it’s totally avoidable. However, if you do find them in your home, there are effective treatments you can use through professional services to keep the woodworm at bay.
If you’re wondering how to control an infestation, or you just want to prevent one from happening, read on to find out more.
What Is Woodworm?
Woodworms are small insects that cause decay in timber over a number of years. They’re difficult to identify early due to their size and the slow speed at which they consume. These insects lay eggs inside the wood, and those larvae will feed on your house’s timber for a number of years before maturing and repeating the cycle over and over again. The danger of woodworm is the damage that can be caused before treatment is considered. If irreparable harm is inflicted on structural components, this can cause major issues within a building.
Deter Woodworm With Ventilation & Humidity Control
One of the most effective techniques for preventing woodworm is creating an inhospitable environment. Woodworm thrives in humid and poorly ventilated conditions, so the best way to deter this pest is by ensuring excess moisture never enters your home and that air flows efficiently. This can be achieved with high-quality double glazing and ventilation systems. Investing in these features not only helps prevent pests, but also stops mould and increases your property’s value.
Stop The Spread By Catching Infestations Early
Ultimately, the best way to prevent woodworm from taking hold is vigilance. We recommend you keep an eye on all timber products in your home, especially structural beams in your roof space, to ensure there are no signs of infection. We’ve outlined the most apparent indications of woodworm below, to help you identify and stop the spread quickly.
Holes In Your Timber
Contrary to popular belief, it is not necessarily the worm itself that damages the wood in your home, but the larvae. They feed off the timber in order to grow and mature. If you can see many small holes, be sure to contact a professional to start treatment immediately.
Frass
Frass is the dust excreted by woodworm larvae as they work their way through the timber. It’s easily identified and usually accompanied by the holes previously mentioned. A significant build-up of this dust on and below timber beams is a sign of a heavy infestation. We advise you to contact an expert as soon as possible.
Get In Touch With Terminate Pest Control For Effective Woodworm Treatment
If you’re in need of woodworm treatments or other pest control services, get in touch with Terminate Pest Control today. We’re a family business with over 20 years of experience in the industry. We understand the importance of preventing and removing any unwanted pests. All our team members are certified by the British Pest Control Association to guarantee a high quality of service.