Woodworm Beetle

Woodworm refers to the larvae of the wood-boring beetles of which four species are the most common in Britain. As is usual with beetles, the adults are fairly harmless but the larvae have voratious appetites for - in this case - timber. They leave evidence of their activity as tiny, neat round holes (as if darts had been thrown at the wood). You will usually find small piles of powdery dust around the holes. This is known as 'frass' but it does not confirm that the infestation is current and active as frass can remain undesturbed for decades.

Best Methods for Controlling your Pest

DIY or The Professionals?

Small isolated infestations can easily be treated yourself using either chemical or non-toxic means.
Large and extensive infestations are better dealt with by a specialist company, but they will use pretty toxic chemicals to make sure the job is completed at the first visit.

Bear in mind that most old buildings will have extinct infestations. These do not need more treatment; however, some surveyors and parties with vested interests will try to convince you that the insects are active and recommend chemical treatments. If you can't check this for yourself, at least get a second or third opinion.

Non-chemical treatment:

the safest yet most effective of the non-chemical treatments for woodworm is Boron Ultra 12
apply Boron as a wet, water based liquid through a suitable sprayer
thoroughly coat all visible surfaces of the infected timber and any other timber you suspect might be vulnerable to woodworm attack
leave for one hour or until dry before re-entry into the room
take care to ensure you do not spray any electrical components. If in doubt, switch off the electic at the consumer box

What is Boron?

Boron is an Element and in its natural form is found in the ground as a mineral deposit in the crystalline group known as 'Borates' (oxides of boron). This group includes boric acid, borax and others. Small amounts of boron are found in the soil, sea, plants and animals. Borates are essential micronutrients and excess amounts in the human body do not accumulate, but are simply excreted in urine.

Use pesticides safely and always read and understand the label