Moisture content of wood is an important controlling factor for insect attack of timber. Many insect which attack timber can only do so when the moisture content is above fibre saturation point 25-30%.
COMMON FEATURE OF BEETLE (WOODWORM)
Habitat: general softwoods and European hard woods
Solid timber Sapwood only affected unless wood rot present, when it may be found in heartwood also. Very rare in tropical hardwoods. Frequent in older furniture and all constructional timbers particularly around loft access, timbers in contact with solid walls, under stairs and other area affected by damp.
Damage characteristics circular 1-2mm diameter holes random in orientation but mainly follows the grain. Bore dust cream- coloured lemon shaped pellets gritty to the touch.
DEATH WATCH BEETLE
Habitat: Sapwoods and heartwoods of partially decayed hardwoods, chiefly oak.
Solid timber often found in historic buildings where large quantities of oak or elm used structurally. Soft woods are rarely attacked unless in contact with infested hardwoods. Found in particularly in areas prone to dampness.
Damage characteristics circular 3mm diameter holes random in orientation but mainly follows the grain. Bore dust cream- coloured disc shaped pellets gritty to touch.
Habitat: decayed soft and hard woods in damp conditions such as poorly ventilated ground floors, cellars or wood in contact with damp soil floors or walls.
Damage characteristics Circular 1-2mm diameter holes usually parallel with the grain may be missed in the early stages of attack. Bore dust cream coloured, fine and talc like to touch.
HOUSE LONG HORN BEETLE
Habitat: Sapwoods of most softwood particularly roofing timbers. Solid timber at present common only in area of England South West London mainly surrey where special building regulations exist to protect structural timber and prevent further spread
Damage characteristics few large oval often ragged 6-10mm diameter holes which join up to cause almost complete disintegration of sapwood. Bore dust cream colour sausage shape pellets gritty to touch and small chips of wood fibres may be present.
Above are the general insect infestation attacks that can occur in wood there are different options for each one depending on how bad the attack is from drying out the saturated areas, replacing timbers to organic- solvent insecticide.
We can issue guarantees on woodworm treatments more information with be provided with the report and estimate.
Contact us today for a free survey and estimate on 0800 955 8995 or email@example.com