Since wood is rich in cellulose and other essentials, it is a common food source for fungi and wood-loving insects. Wood plays a vital role in an insect’s life. Not only does it provide food but also a strong and viable home. But, some insects cause massive destruction to wooden structures across America.
There are different species of wood-loving insects, some are helpful to the wood life, and some are causing serious damage. Woodworm is one example of a wood-destroying pest. Let’s dive in and find out more about woodworm infestation and prevention.
What is Woodworm?
Wood Boring Beetles lay their eggs in cracks and crevices of wood. When the larvae get hatched, they eat through the wood, creating tunnels and tiny holes. Woodworms consume cellulose and wood fibers to survive.
Woodworms are small, measuring just about 6mm in length. Their rigid body makes it easier for them to propel forward in wood. They can live in wood unnoticed for 3 to 5 years, and then when they reach adulthood, they leave their burrows searching for a mate.
What Causes Woodworm Infestation?
Just like any other insects, woodworms are attracted to moisture. Moisture is a key to their survival. Wood with a high moisture content is soft, making it easier to bore into, eat, and digest. Wood with 30 percent moisture content is an ideal paradise for woodworms.
Untreated wood is another major cause of woodworm infestation. The lack of wood preservatives or a sealant can attract bugs and beetles to lay their eggs. They can easily penetrate your wood and cause further damage if left unchecked. Common beetles usually prefer the month of April to September to lay their eggs.
Best Products to Kill Woodworms
Tiny holes and gritty wood dust are some of the most recognizable signs of woodworm infestation. You need immediate action if you notice these in your furniture and wooden structure. Woodworms can easily eat up your beloved furniture. We listed some of the most trusted products with permethrin to kill woodworms.
Varnish
Varnish is usually used to polish the furniture, but it can also prevent wood-boring insects from infestation. It serves as a protective coat against insects and woodworms. Some DIY fanatics mix small amounts of gasoline in varnish to add another chemical layer for additional protection. Plus, the varnish is widely available in every hardware.
Barrettine Woodworm killing Spray
Barrettine Woodworm Killing Spray is an effective bug and larvae killer. It contains permethrin, an insecticide that kills woodworms and other wood-boring insects. It can offer years of lasting protection and is ideal for use on floors, ceilings, wooden furniture, beams, and doors. It is easy to dry and produces a clear finish.
Cuprinol Woodworm Killer
It’s a water-based chemical solution to kill woodworm and other wood-infesting pests. Additionally, it can penetrate deeply into the wood for lasting protection. Cuprinol Woodworm Killer is suitable for wooden furniture, beams, jolts, floors, and window frames.
Ronseal Woodworm Killer
It is a water-based solution with permethrin that can be used indoors and outdoors. Ronseal Woodworm Killer can effectively eliminate wood-boring insects, eggs, and larvae. Additionally, it has a low odor and long-lasting protection against re-infestation and the spread of woodworm.
How to Prevent Woodworm Infestation
Woodworm infestation can be prevented easily. Some methods can prevent the infestation as early as possible. They seldom attack dry wood, so most infestations happen on outside furniture and wooden structures that are constantly exposed to water.
Keep Wood Dry
Damp wood is a perfect place for female beetles to lay their eggs. Since moisture is available, the larvae can easily bore themselves into the wood. It is easier for them to chew on the wood and create passageways.
Keep your home ventilated and Heated
A well-ventilated house reduces moisture build-up. Make sure that there is enough air circulation to keep your wooden dry. Additionally, heating your room at the right temperature can minimize wood saturation and keep your wood moist free.
Use Varnish to seal the wood
If you have untreated wood, use Varnish as a sealant while keeping your furniture nice and shiny. Varnish can prevent larvae from munching your wood. It serves as a protective layer to your wooden structure and furniture.
Removing infected wood
Removing or replacing infected wood can stop the spread of the infestation. Woodworm infestation is like a virus; they can transfer from one wood to another. If your furniture or timber is infested, replace it immediately to lessen further damage.
Woodworm Treatment
Treating your wood with a woodworm treatment is the most effective way to prevent infestation. Permethrin is a chemical solution designed to kill woodworm and treat wood. Most experts use this insecticide to eradicate wood-boring insects and protect the wood from infestation.
Conclusion
Whether dead or alive, wood is rich in nutrients, making it an ideal food source for insects. Termites and wood-boring beetles are just insects that love to eat cellulose. They cause serious wood damage and especially to our property. Luckily, there are step-by-step guides and chemical treatments to eliminate them.
If a block of wood is infested, most homeowners throw away the affected wood, but there are creative ways to revamp your wood. You can create new furniture or use it for a new project. Plus, reusing your wood is environmentally friendly and cheap.
