Hi all,

Renovating a house and found quite a few areas of woodworm.

Had a survey and it was suggested some of it was recent so likely there are still active ‘worms’ about elsewhere in the house so should spray 2 key rooms.

However, another person I contacted about doing a survey (who was not available at the time) turned up today. So as he was here I showed him the problem with the idea of getting a second quote. Low and behold, he said its all old, no need to spray but one (short) joist might need replaced.

Now quite Confused??!!

What does the stw hive mind suggest?w
Ta
Rich.

If there has been regular ‘dust’ in the areas over the last few months its active. If not dont worry.

Sadly we only bought it a few month ago and all the areas we found it were pretty filthy so hard to tell fully. Thing I worry about is even if its not active what are the chances of it getting out of hand if some new beetles are introduced in the future (through furniture etc.)??

I should point out house is 1920’s, was unoccupied for 12 month prior to purchase and no, survey didn’t spot it (only got basic but we have only found this through ripping walls and ceilings down)

Treatment is simple enough if you suspect it htough my suspicion is that it won’t be active. you generally only see holes where the beetle has emerged and fled to breed. Don’t pay for anyone to treat it as it will cost you a fortune. just paint a treatment on the affected areas, job done.

Blitz it or monitor it. Finding fresh-ish dust is the key it’s quite distinctive in look and texture (Google some images for reference).

Some specialists (not the kind with a financial interest in treatment!) Stick papers on to document any new activity.

If you are prepared to wait and see (disruption if infested is shown) it’s a good way forward and can give peace of mind..

Otherwise you can just spray the poisons or get a fell to do it. It’s not pleasant but also fairly easy..

Woodworm – The hole in the argument

Also chek the skirtings and arcitraves for holes.

Cheers all. Sound advice.