How to spot signs of woodworm (with images)

Woodworm is a problem many homeowners might not even realise they have until there is already significant damage done to their property. 

The early stages of an infestation can be subtle, so it is important to recognise the signs of woodworm before the damage becomes extensive and costly. 

A woodworm infestation happens when the larvae of various wood-boring beetle species consume wood. This can happen to any wooden item and is especially dangerous when it affects structural beams or floorboards. If not treated, over time this can lead to structural instability, becoming a safety hazard. 

If you suspect your property has woodworm, contact us and let one of our qualified and experienced specialists assess your property and deliver the best woodworm treatment!

What does a woodworm look like?

Contrary to what the name might suggest, woodworms are not actually worms, but the larvae stage of various beetle species that burrow into the wood and feed on it. 

Woodworm larvae

Woodworm larvae are typically a few millimetres long, soft, white or cream-coloured and hardly visible to the eye. Their bodies are cylindrical or C-shaped segmented and possess strong, dark-coloured jaws that they use to chew through wood. 

These larvae are usually hidden within the wood to feed on it until they emerge as beetles, making them hard to spot unless the wood is cut open or broken apart.

Adult woodworm

Wood-boring beetles vary in appearance depending on the species, but they generally share some common traits. They usually have a small, cylindrical or oval body and can range in size from 2 to 25 mm in length. 

Their colour varies from reddish-brown (powderpost beetles, common furniture beetles) to dark brown or black (wood-boring weevils, house longhorn beetles) often with fine hairs covering their body. The head can sometimes be visible from above, but in various species, it is hidden. 

They also have well-developed legs and antennae, and sometimes the antennae can be nearly as long as the body (house longhorn beetle). Adult woodworm beetles often emerge from small, round exit holes they create in the wood, which are about 1-2 mm in diameter. 

Adult woodworms have a short life and primarily focus on mating and laying eggs to continue the lifecycle.

Common signs of woodworm in homes

To prevent extensive damage to your wooden structures and furniture, it is important to detect the woodworm infestation early. Several signs can indicate the presence of an infestation. This way, you can take action to address the problem before it worsens and protect your valuable wooden items.

Woodworm signs in floorboards

You can prevent significant damage to your floorboards and costly repairs by detecting the woodworm on time. Here are some common signs to look out for:

1. Small Round Exit Holes: 

One of the most common and visible signs of woodworm in floorboards are small holes. These holes, usually have 1-2 mm in diameter and are created by adult beetles emerging from the wood. They are often the first visible sign of an infestation. These holes are present when woodworm larvae mature into beetles and exit the wood to reproduce.

2. Fine, Powdery Dust (Frass): 

The presence of frass is a clear sign of woodworm larvae actively tunnelling through the wood, breaking it down. 

This dust is small and fine and can be found around or below the exit holes. It’s a result of the woodworm chewing their way through the wood. This can weaken the wood structure over time.

3. Weakened or Crumbling Wood:

 Floorboards that feel unusually soft or can be easily broken apart may have been weakened by woodworm tunnelling. If you try pressing down on the wood, it may show spongy or brittle areas. This can cause significant structural damage and become a safety risk if left untreated.

4. Tunnels or Galleries:

Inside the wood, larvae create a network of tunnels or galleries as they feed, making the wood less stable and more prone to damage. These tunnels are often difficult to see without cutting into or removing part of the wood, but if you break a piece of wood, you might notice extensive tunnelling inside of it.

5. Dead Beetles:

 Finding dead beetles on or near the floorboards indicates that adult beetles have emerged from the exit holes to mate and lay eggs. They are usually visible between May and October. 

Woodworm in furniture

Woodworm in furniture can be a serious issue, causing damage and compromising the structural integrity of your wooden pieces. You might notice tiny, round exit holes on the surface, which are signs that adult beetles have emerged. 

Fine, powdery dust, known as frass, may be found beneath or around the furniture, indicating active larvae inside. The affected wood may feel weak or crumbly when touched, as the larvae create extensive tunnels within. 

If you spot any of these signs, it’s crucial to address the infestation promptly to preserve your furniture. Contact our team and let us help you!

How to tell if woodworm is still active?

It can be quite hard to determine if woodworm is still active, since the visible signs don’t always mean current activity. However, there are several signs that could indicate potential woodworm activity. 

One key indicator is the presence of fresh frass, thefine, powdery dust that woodworm larvae leave behind as they burrow through wood. Fresh frass is dry and has a light colour, suggesting that larvae are still actively feeding inside the wood.

Another sign of an active infestation are small, round, and clean-edged holes that indicate adult beetles have recently emerged from the wood. Over time, old exit holes can get dusty or weathered, so if you spot new holes, the woodworm is definitely active.

Seeing live adult beetles or larvae is a definitive confirmation of an active woodworm problem. Adult beetles are usually found near windowsills or other light sources as they seek to escape, while the larvae remain hidden within the wood. 

Seen signs of woodworm? Contact us 

If you’ve noticed any signs of woodworm in your home or furniture, make sure to contact a woodworm specialist. Our team of experts can provide a thorough inspection and effective treatment to prevent further damage to your property. 

Contact us today to schedule an appointment or get a free online quote to ensure your home remains woodworm-free! 

FAQs

What are the early signs of woodworm? 

The early signs of woodworm are small, round exit holes on the surface of wooden items, indicating that adult beetles have emerged. You may also notice fine, powdery dust called frass around or beneath the wood, which is produced by the larvae as they tunnel through it. 

When are woodworm most active during the year? 

Woodworm beetles are most active during the warmer months, usually from April until October. This is when adult beetles emerge from the wood to mate and lay eggs, starting the infestation cycle again. During this period, you are more likely to notice new exit holes and find adult beetles around your home.

How does woodworm start in a house?

Woodworm infestations start when adult beetles lay eggs on or just beneath the surface of wooden items or structures that have high moisture levels. The eggs hatch into larvae, which then burrow into the wood and begin feeding. Infestations can be introduced into a home through infested furniture, building materials, or even through openings where beetles can come from outside.