Woodworm is a serious timber pest problem caused by larvae from various wood-boring beetles. If left untreated, these insects can severely weaken timber and cause significant damage. Woodworm infestations grow well in damp, poorly ventilated areas. They often go unnoticed until the damage is severe.
Woodworm Surveys to Identify, Treat & Prevent Damage
Woodworm infestations can silently compromise your property’s structural integrity. The larvae burrow through timber, weakening beams, floors, and furniture. Left untreated, these infestations can worsen, leading to costly and hazardous damage. The longer the infestation remains unchecked, the more significant the damage becomes.
At Prokil, we specialise in rapidly identifying and effectively treating woodworm infestations. Our comprehensive surveys and expert woodworm treatments are designed to stop insects at their source. Our specialists conduct thorough inspections, providing detailed diagnostic reports and customised treatment solutions.
Why Thousands Trust Prokil
Over 50 years of proven expertise
CSRT and CSTDB-qualified surveyors
No commission-based sales or high-pressure tactics
How We Identify, Treat & Prevent Woodworm Infestations
Our process begins with a specialist inspection carried out by fully qualified Prokil surveyors. Every team member is certified by the Property Care Association (PCA) and holds recognised qualifications, such as CSRT (Certified Surveyor in Remedial Treatments) and CSTDB (Certified Surveyor in Timber & Damp). These credentials help us confirm that our findings are accurate and adhere to industry standards. Whenever possible, our surveys are non-invasive. This means we can check your property with minimal disruption.
Woodworm thrives in timber with a high moisture content. Infestations typically occur in damp areas or those with poor airflow, including attics, subfloors, and basements. Which? says that moisture levels over 20% are ideal for larvae to grow and infest timber. Our team uses moisture meters to spot areas of your property that could be at risk. This helps us evaluate the timber’s vulnerability to infestation. By checking moisture levels and spotting woodworm activity, we can decide the best treatment plan.
What Our Woodworm Surveys Include
After we finish the survey, you will receive a detailed report. This report will evaluate your property’s state and find any possible woodworm infestations. It will help you understand the extent of the damage, the underlying causes, and the best course of action.
Our report will include:
Areas of timber affected and associated moisture levels.
Our woodworm treatment recommendations are always tailored to your property’s specific needs. When treatment is necessary, our expert technicians use reliable methods to achieve great results. We isolate affected timbers, remove the decayed wood, and treat the surrounding areas to prevent further damage. If access is limited, we might suggest post-treatment checks. We may also recommend improved ventilation in areas such as sub-floor spaces. These measures help ensure that the repairs will last in the long term, protecting your property for years to come.
Common causes of woodworm infestations include:
Excess moisture in timbers from leaks or damp conditions.
Poor ventilation in roof spaces, underfloor areas, or basements.
Damaged or deteriorated timber that provides an entry point for beetles.
Our surveyors evaluate all factors and provide helpful advice to prevent more infestations. They may recommend measures like improving airflow, addressing moisture sources, or installing new timber preservation systems to keep your property safe. If necessary, we also offer timber preservation services to protect your timber from future woodworm damage.
Woodworm damage can often be difficult to spot initially. However, once the infestation becomes visible, the signs are unmistakable. Woodworm can be confused with damp damage or rot. That is why it is essential to have a professional survey for accurate identification and treatment.
Frass (powdery dust), often found around exit holes, is a sign of larval activity.
Tunnels and burrowing marks along the grain of the timber are obvious on beams or floorboards.
Adult beetles emerging from timber or dead beetles found nearby.
Weak or crumbling timber: Timber may feel soft or weakened due to extensive tunnelling.
In the UK, common woodworm species are the Common Furniture Beetle, Deathwatch Beetle, and House Longhorn Beetle. Each species causes unique types of damage, and recognising them early can help us provide the most effective treatment. Prokil’s experts are skilled at identifying species during the survey. This enables us to select the most suitable treatment for your property.
If untreated, woodworm can be very destructive. Timely diagnosis is crucial, as misdiagnosis can lead to ineffective or unnecessary treatment. The smart choice is to use our fully qualified, accredited surveyors to conduct a survey. Our team has years of experience in identifying and treating woodworm infestations.
We have been trusted to protect over 37,000 properties across the South of England. With over 50 years of experience, our team combines technical expertise with excellent customer service. This way, every solution is tailored, reliable, and backed by a 20-year guarantee. No matter if your worry is from a homebuyer’s report, visible damage, or strange signs of pests, we are here to give you peace of mind, without any pressure to buy. Let Prokil provide the reassurance you need, backed by professional and reliable service.
