Woodworm Treatment in London

Wood is the favourite food of several species of insects that become very intense pests. In this case, we will talk about the woodworm.

Description of the woodworm

It is a coleopteran, a family of beetles that feeds specifically on wood because of its cellulose content. Its relationship with wood is in its larval stage during which it feeds on wood until it reaches its adult stage.

It lives in a variety of habitats and is able to withstand cold climates and humid environments. They are deep brown or black in colour. Its size reaches 1.5 mm, with an elongated body and long antennae. Their life cycle is quite short, especially when they reach the adult stage, when they lay their eggs and die.

Where woodworm woodworm is found

As its name suggests, it is an insect that is always found near domesticated wood. For this reason, its relationship with humans is basic. It is usually found where there is furniture or houses with wooden bases. It can also be found in dead trees, but this is not frequent.

Locating it is relatively easy, because it leaves a recognisable trail of sawdust at close range. Holes can also be observed in the infested area with small mounds of sawdust at the entrance. It is noticeable that they prefer treated wood because it is dry.

Different types of woodworm

The species is not limited to wood, some feed on processed flours, or other plant matter. They also feed on organic fibres such as wool, rubber and the like. We can find highly specialised woodworm infesting living wood as well. Also, the so-called death watch beetle is extremely voracious. It is the main enemy of constructions such as wooden houses.

Damage caused by woodworm

Of course it destroys all types of furniture made of wood. But it can also corrode bases or columns made of wood, affecting the integrity of buildings. It can also consume cellulose-rich paper, antique furniture and shelving. Its effect is far-reaching because it reproduces relatively easily under the right conditions. The galleries it builds weaken building elements made of wood. They prefer softwoods such as pine or cedar, which are common in northern hemisphere homes.

Woodworm Treatment London

It is an insect that is difficult to detect until very late in the season. After it has colonised a space of plant fibre, the damage can be extensive and difficult to recover from. This is because its action is prolonged and systematic. By the time it stops feeding, the damage may already be done.

In some areas of both Europe and North America, they are considered a public health problem. This is due to the consequences of their actions and the speed of their reproduction.

Proper woodworm treatment in  London requires a variety of tools, from chemical attack to prevention and control.