Case Study

June 2025 Blog

Woodworm in Glasgow Homes: What It Is, What It Does & Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It

Woodworm may be small, but the damage it causes can be huge

At Ninja Damp Proofing, we regularly help homeowners and commercial property owners across Glasgow and surrounding areas tackle the hidden threat of woodworm before it’s too late.

Whether you live in an older tenement flat, a detached family home or manage a commercial property, understanding the effects of woodworm and acting early can save you serious stress, money and damage.

What Is Woodworm?

Woodworm refers to the larvae of wood boring beetles that tunnel through timber as they feed. Despite their small size, these insects can cause serious internal damage to structural timbers, furniture, flooring and more.

The most common species in the UK include:

Common Furniture Beetle
Deathwatch Beetle
House Longhorn Beetle

Each one behaves slightly differently, but the result is the same: weakened, crumbling wood that may no longer be safe or structurally sound.

Why Is Woodworm So Common in Glasgow and Scotland?

Glasgow’s damp climate and rich history of older buildings make it a prime environment for woodworm to thrive. Many properties in and around the city were built using timber joists and floors, and over time, these have become ideal feeding grounds for larvae, especially in damp, poorly ventilated spaces.

Even modern homes and commercial properties aren’t immune. Lofts, basements and storage areas with untreated timber are all at risk.

The Damage Woodworm Can Cause

If left untreated, woodworm can lead to:

🛠 Structural Timber Damage

Joists, roof beams, staircases and floorboards can be hollowed out from the inside, becoming dangerously weak.

🪵 Damage to Furniture and Fixtures

Woodworm doesn’t discriminate—skirting boards, window sills and even cherished furniture can be riddled with holes and frass (powdery wood dust).

💷 Major Repair Costs

Delaying treatment can turn a minor infestation into a serious structural issue requiring timber replacement and restoration, costing thousands.

Signs You Might Have Woodworm

Keep an eye out for the following warning signs:

Small (1–2mm) exit holes in timber
Powdery dust (frass) beneath the holes or on surfaces
Crumbly or brittle edges on beams, boards or furniture
Visible tunnels inside damaged wood
Live or dead beetles, especially in spring and summer

If you’re seeing any of these, don’t assume it’s old or inactive get a professional inspection to be sure.

How We Treat Woodworm

At Ninja Damp Proofing, we offer comprehensive woodworm treatments across Glasgow and surrounding areas. Our process includes:

✅ Full property survey and identification

✅ Application of specialist insecticidal treatments

✅ Timber repair or replacement as needed

✅ Advice on ventilation and moisture control to prevent recurrence

We treat properties of all sizes whether it’s a single room, an entire home or a commercial building.

What Happens If You Ignore It?

Unfortunately, woodworm doesn’t just go away. The longer it’s left, the more damage it causes. Ignoring an infestation can lead to:

Dangerous structural weakening
Loss of antique or sentimental furniture
Increased repair costs
Insurance complications
Health & safety risks in commercial premises

Acting now protects your property, your finances, and your peace of mind.

If you’re unsure whether your home or business is at risk, don’t wait until the signs are obvious. Our experienced team at Ninja Damp Proofing can inspect your property and provide tailored, cost effective solutions.