DID YOU KNOW?

Woodworm is not actually a worm, it is the larva of any wood-boring beetle which can live for up to 5 years inside wood, only boring to the surface when they’ve matured to adulthood. Even though they are tiny pests and not dangerous for human health, the damage caused by the larvae eating their way through timber can lead to serious structural integrity problems in a property if left untreated. To treat the infestation more effectively, it is important to spot it in the early stages.

How to spot a woodworm infestation?

1. The most obvious sign is the exit holes in the wood caused by adult beetles emerging from the wood. When woodworm becomes adult beetles, they dig their way out searching for a mating partner. The holes are between 2mm and 5mm, depending on the species of beetle.
2. Frass is a clear indication of an infestation. Frass is essentially dust created by the woodworm boring into the wood. Frass is light in colour and very fine.
3. Adult woodworm beetles like light, so they can usually be found near windows or other sources of natural light in your home or other structure.

How long do woodworms live?

From an egg to an adult beetle, it may take between 2 and 5 years, time spent inside the wood.
Male adult beetles, after leaving their safe place, live only 3 to 4 days, time in which they are looking to mate with as many female beetles as possible.
Female adult beetles live between 10 and 14 days, time in which they’ll look for the perfect spot to lay their eggs which is most likely to be on old timber with a lot of cracks and holes.

How to solve woodworm infestation?

The best practice is to prevent any woodworm infestation. Treating the wood with Arc Wood Preservative and Woodworm Killer from the beginning is your best bet.
If the infestation is spotted timely, the wood can be treated with Arc Wood Preservative and Woodworm Killer.
Untreated active infestation can lead to structural failure which can lead to very expensive repairs.

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