Woodworm is often introduced into the home on second-hand furniture, tea chests or wicker items. They can then attack floorboards, woodwork and, more seriously, structural members such as beams and joists. For this reason, it is essential to know how to get rid of woodworms as soon as you spot the signs.
Woodworms in the house
Woodworm is a type of beetle that feeds on wood. Woodworm adults lay their eggs in holes in the wood and the newly hatched larvae dig tunnels into the wood, feeding on its cellulose. Woodworms stay in the wood because they need the cellulose present in it for their nutrition and development. There are some signs that can help you understand if your house is infested with woodworm:
Holes. Carefully check wooden objects in your home for holes. Woodworms leave round or oval holes in the surface of the wood.
Dust marks. When woodworms dig tunnels into wood, they produce a fine dust called “wood flour.” Check wooden objects for dust under or around them.
You play. When woodworms feed on wood, they can make sounds that can be heard when you pay attention. These sounds may be similar to clicking or chewing.
Fragility. Wood damaged by woodworm can become brittle and even collapse if not treated properly.
How to Get Rid of Woodworm: Expert’s Guide
To get rid of woodworm in your home, here are some tips:
Inspection: The first thing to do is identify the site of the infestation. Carefully inspect all wooden objects in the infested area and look for signs of woodworm damage, such as holes and wood dust.
Freezing: A natural way to kill woodworm is to place infested items in a freezer for at least 72 hours. This will kill the eggs and adult woodworms without damaging the items.
Traps: Woodworm traps can be used to catch adult insects. Traps can be made at home using a piece of sticky paper, to which a mixture of sugar and water is applied to attract woodworms.
Sun Exposure: Leaving infested items in the sun for several hours can help kill woodworms and their eggs.
Chemicals: If the infestation is severe, the use of specific chemicals may be necessary. However, these products can be toxic to humans and pets.
Prevention: To prevent further woodworm infestations, it is important to store wooden objects in a cool, dry environment and clean them regularly to remove dust.