WOOD BORING INSECTS

The average person would probably include "woodworm" in a list of defects which might be found in a property by a surveyor. Whilst not normally a routine topic of conversation, wood boring insets are certainly not a "boring" subject in the context of surveying!

Although worm infestation can have serious consequences for a property, in most circumstances, nowadays, beetle infestation is unlikely to be a serious long-term problem.

A property surveyor will certainly be on the lookout for tell-tale signs of trouble, particularly when surveying older properties and buildings, such as churches and public houses, where timbers may not have been visible or exposed or many years.

The surveyor is aware that signs of trouble can often be the "tip of the iceberg" with most of the problems concealed from view below the surface. The most common form of woodboring insect in this country is woodworm. These insects have a definite life cycle, like many other creatures. The adult female beetle lays eggs which hatch into small lava; these grubs then burrow through their timber food supply for several years before emerging as adults to lay more eggs and repeat the process. Most of the damage to timberwork, therefore, has been caused before the beetle emerges, leaving its tell-tale flight/exit hole, normally accompanied by a small pile of frass (fine sawdust). Flight holes are small, usually about 1mm across and readily identifiable.

Due to the nature of this life cycle, it is important to try and detect trouble sooner rather than later. The best places to look for evidence are in cellars, floorboards, roof timbers, cupboards and under the stairs. It is said that central heating helps to reduce the incidence of worm and beetle infestation. To an extent this can be true but sub-floor areas and roof voids are still largely vulnerable areas.

When evidence of an attack is discovered, early treatment is necessary to minimise the damage and expense. Such treatments are normally effective and long-lasting and reputable specialist contractors will usually provide a guarantee against future infestation.

Using water-based solvents now allows effective treatments to be completed within a day or so.

It is always advisable to use an established and reputable specialist contractor and the British Wood-Preserving and Damp-Proofing Association is a good source of further information and provides lists of reliable companies - www.bwpda.co.uk - 01332 225100.