Case Study
July 2024 Case Study
Case Study: Treating Woodworm Infestation in Rutherglen
Client Background
Anna, a homeowner in Rutherglen, recently noticed an increasing number of dead bugs accumulating on her window sills. Although she was unsure of the exact cause, Anna suspected there might be an issue with the woodworm in her home. Concerned about potential damage to her timbers, she contacted Ninja Damp Proofing for a professional assessment.
Initial Assessment
Our team conducted a thorough survey of Anna’s property in Rutherglen and confirmed the presence of Common Furniture Beetle (Anobium punctatum), a common cause of woodworm infestations in Scotland.
Key observations included:
- Numerous small, round exit holes in timber furniture and structural woodwork.
- A fine, powdery dust (frass) around the affected areas, a clear sign of wood boring activity.
- Several dead beetles on window sills, confirming the presence of adult insects.
We explained to Anna that while adult beetles cause minimal damage, their larvae, feeding within the wood for years, are responsible for structural weakening.
Challenges
The main challenges in addressing this infestation were:
- Preventing further timber damage by eradicating the active larvae and adult beetles.
- Managing Anna’s expectations about the lifecycle of woodworm, as new exit holes could still appear for up to 3–5 years post treatment due to emerging adults.
Solution
To effectively tackle the woodworm problem, we implemented the following solution:
- Inspection and Preparation: Affected timber was carefully inspected to assess the extent of the infestation. Any severely compromised wood was replaced to maintain structural integrity.
- Application of Woodworm Treatment Spray: We applied a specialist woodworm chemical spray to all affected and surrounding timber. This treatment penetrates the wood, killing larvae and preventing adult beetles from laying new eggs.
- Education on the Woodworm Lifecycle: Anna was informed about the lifecycle of woodworm:
- Adult beetles lay eggs in timber.
- Larvae hatch and bore into the wood, feeding for several years.
- Mature larvae pupate and emerge as adults, leaving exit holes.
We clarified that she might continue to see new exit holes over the next 3 – 5 years as pre-existing larvae mature, but the treatment would kill any new beetles that exit and prevent further infestations.
Implementation
Our trained technicians completed the treatment over the course of a single day, ensuring all affected areas were thoroughly treated. We also advised Anna to monitor for further signs of activity and keep her home well ventilated to reduce timber moisture, as damp wood can attract woodworm.
Results
Post treatment, Anna’s property in Rutherglen is now protected against woodworm. The following outcomes were achieved:
- The chemical spray eradicated active larvae and adult beetles.
- Severely damaged timber was replaced, restoring structural integrity.
- Anna gained valuable insight into the lifecycle of woodworm and how to prevent future infestations.
Conclusion
This case demonstrates Ninja Damp Proofing’s expertise in resolving woodworm infestations effectively. Early detection and treatment are crucial to preventing further damage, as highlighted in Anna’s experience.
For professional woodworm treatment services in Rutherglen or surrounding areas, visit our Woodworm Services page.
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