You can tell that you have a woodworm problem with some tell-tale signs. To remedy this, treatment of damp course may be employed. While it can be difficult to detect the woodworm beetles or larvae that have bored through your home’s timber, they do leave some significant clues.
For example, if you see small round holes in the wood, it may be a sign of an infestation. The holes are usually dart-tip sized marks of about two millimetres. In some instances, you may have to use a magnifying glass to see the holes.
A Dust-Like Powder
The excreta of the insects is revealed in a dust-like powder. Also known as frass, the powder is often found near the exit as mentioned above holes. You may also see frass beneath or on the back of old furniture.
Damp Problems Also Lead to Mould
Indeed, the damp course company market in Harborough is thriving as damp is a problem that not only leads to wormwood problems or rotting timber but it can also trigger the formation of mould. Therefore, any issues with damp should be handled immediately as avoiding the problem can only make things worse.
Are Your Joists Crumbly?
While searching for woodworm problems, you may also spot clues by examining floorboards and joists. As the issue worsens, you may notice that some of your floorboards or joists have taken on a crumbly look. If you can cut through any suspected timber for a further examination, you can verify the problem. A visible sign of an infestation is the appearance of tunnels in the wood.
Do You See Dead Beetles?
If you suspect woodworms in your home and see dead beetles near the holes, your suspicions are probably correct. However, not all woodworm clues are cause for worry. When you find frass or holes, it may indicate a prior infestation that has since become dormant.
Wet Rot and Dry Rot
If your timber or wood flooring is damaged, you may have a wet rot or dry rot issue and not a problem with woodworms at all. Signs of wood rot include small holes or cracks in doors, vents, or windows or cracks in painted surfaces. Timber swelling also indicates that wood rot is a problem.
Treating Rising Damp
Indeed, any damp problem can lead to structural difficulties. Whether you are treating woodworm, wet rot, dry rot, or damp, you must get rid of the source of the damp. For example, if you have a problem with rising damp, holes placed about 125 millimetres apart are usually drilled in mortar or brick joints.
The holes are drilled so that a silicone fluid can be injected. This type of fluid reduces the wall’s capillary activity. If the holes are drilled on the outside of the property, they usually are filled with mortar to ensure a neat appearance. Re-plastering is often done for internal walls so they can be painted and decorated. A waterproof floor joint may be advised in some instances. It is always a good idea to check out what problems you may have by using this handy guide.
