Wood-Boring Insects and Timber Treatment
Left undetected, wood-boring insects can cause serious and progressive damage to timber. In structural situations, this can compromise the strength and integrity of a building — sometimes significantly — before any visible signs are apparent. Early survey and treatment is essential to prevent costly remedial work.
Common Wood-Boring Species
Wood-boring beetles are the most frequently encountered timber pest in the UK. The most common species include:
- Common Furniture Beetle (Anobium punctatum) — the most widespread species, responsible for the majority of woodworm damage found in UK homes; attacks softwoods and hardwoods alike
- Deathwatch Beetle (Xestobium rufovillosum) — typically found in older buildings, attacking hardwoods such as oak; can cause severe structural damage if untreated
- House Longhorn Beetle (Hylotrupes bajulus) — attacks softwood roof timbers; less common but capable of causing extensive structural damage
- Powder Post Beetle (Lyctus spp.) — attacks the sapwood of hardwoods; often introduced via new timber or second-hand furniture
Each species requires a different treatment approach, which is why professional identification is an important first step.
Our Survey Service
PCM Pest Control offers thorough timber surveys to assess the condition of structural and decorative timber throughout a property. Our survey will identify:
Excessive Moisture
Damp timber is significantly more susceptible to wood-boring insect attack, as well as fungal decay. Where elevated moisture levels are detected, our surveyor will provide practical advice and, where appropriate, recommend suitable ventilation or damp-proofing measures to bring humidity under control and protect the timber long-term.
Wood-Boring Insect Infestation
Where an active or historic infestation is identified, our surveyor will recommend the most appropriate treatment using industry-approved products. The specific treatment method will depend on the species present, the extent of the infestation, and the type of timber affected — all of which will be clearly detailed in our written report.
Decayed or Structurally Weakened Timber
Where timber has been weakened by insect attack or fungal decay, our surveyor will advise on the extent of the damage and recommend that affected sections are cut out and replaced with new, pressure-treated, structurally graded timber to restore integrity.
Our Treatment Products
The timber treatments we use are dual-purpose wood preservatives, effective against both wood-boring insects and wood-destroying fungi — including wet rot and dry rot. All products are:
- Fully COSHH assessed in accordance with manufacturers' data sheets
- Applied in line with current industry recommendations and best practice
- HSE approved
On completion of works, customers receive copies of all relevant product data sheets, HSE-approved safety sheets, and any applicable guarantees for their records.
Guarantees
Appropriate guarantees are provided on completion of treatment, giving you peace of mind and a documented record should you need it for property sales, insurance, or mortgage purposes.
How PCM Pest Control Can Help
Whether you have noticed the telltale small round exit holes of woodworm, are buying or selling a property, or simply want peace of mind about the condition of your timber, PCM Pest Control can help.
📞 Call PCM Pest Control today: 01626 836126
