Woodworm is a common issue in homes and buildings across the UK, and if left untreated, it can cause serious structural damage. As damp and timber specialists, we often find woodworm infestations during property surveys especially in areas with high humidity or poor ventilation. Here we will explore the different types of woodworm, how to identify them, and the most effective treatments to protect your property.
What Is Woodworm?
Despite the name, woodworm isn’t a worm. It’s the larval stage of various species of wood-boring beetles, which lay their eggs in timber. Once the larvae hatch, they burrow through the wood as they feed, leaving behind a trail of damage that can weaken the structure over time.
The most visible signs of woodworm include:
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- Small round exit holes (typically 1–2mm in diameter)
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- Fine powdery dust (called frass) around the holes
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- Weakened or crumbling timber
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- Beetles emerging from the wood (usually between March and September)
Common Types of Woodworm in the UK
There are several species of wood-boring insects in the UK, but here are the most common ones we encounter in our work:
Common Furniture Beetle (Anobium punctatum)
Appearance: 2.5 – 5mm long, brown in colour
Timber preference: Softwoods and European hardwoods
Damage level: Moderate to severe if untreated
This is the most widespread woodworm in UK homes. It attacks joists, floorboards, furniture, and structural timbers. Left untreated, infestations can weaken timber over time.
Deathwatch Beetle (Xestobium rufovillosum)
Appearance: 5 – 7mm long, dark brown with mottled yellow patches
Timber preference: Hardwood, especially oak and elm, often in damp conditions
Damage level: Severe – especially in historic or listed buildings
Often found in older buildings with long-standing damp issues, the Deathwatch Beetle can cause serious structural problems. The beetle gets its name from the tapping sound it makes during mating season.
House Longhorn Beetle (Hylotrupes bajulus)
Appearance: 8 – 25mm long, dark brown to black with greyish hairs
Timber preference: Softwoods, especially roofing timbers
Damage level: Very severe
Mainly found in southern England, particularly Surrey and surrounding counties. This beetle is aggressive and capable of causing extensive damage, often hollowing out timber entirely while leaving a thin surface shell.
Powderpost Beetle (Lyctus spp.)
Appearance: 2 – 5mm long, reddish-brown
Timber preference: New hardwoods, especially oak, ash, and mahogany
Damage level: Light to moderate
Often introduced via imported timber or wooden furniture, this beetle prefers newer wood and causes damage to the outer layers.
How to Treat Woodworm
Here’s how woodworm is typically treated:
Timber Survey & Identification
Our qualified surveyors will inspect your property to determine:
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- The type of beetle present
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- Whether the infestation is active or historic
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- The extent of damage to structural timbers
Chemical Treatment
For active infestations, we apply a specialist insecticidal treatment to the affected timber. This is typically a water-based solution that kills larvae within the wood and prevents reinfestation.
Treatments are:
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- Low odour and non-staining
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- Safe once dry
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- Highly effective when applied professionally
Timber Replacement or Repairs
In cases of severe damage, especially with longhorn or deathwatch beetles, damaged timber may need to be replaced or reinforced. We’ll assess the structure and recommend the safest, most cost-effective solution.
Improving Ventilation & Reducing Moisture
Most wood-boring insects thrive in damp environments. By addressing underlying damp issues such as rising damp, leaks, or poor ventilation we can prevent future infestations.
Our damp proofing specialists can help with:
Installing ventilation systems
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- Treating rising damp
- Improving subfloor airflow
As certified damp and timber specialists, we provide:
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- Expert identification of woodworm species
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- Professional treatment with guaranteed results
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- Full property surveys and reports
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- Competitive pricing and trustworthy advice
Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord, or managing agent, we can help protect your property from costly woodworm damage.
Don’t let woodworm eat away at your property’s value. If you’ve spotted any signs of infestation or want peace of mind, get in touch today to book a survey.
