Woodworm is the commonly used term for a variety of species of wood boring insects which; if left to their own devices, wreak havoc in structural timbers. Kilrot's specialist service will eradicate woodworm infestation safely. The insecticides used are also suitable for areas used by bats (subject to an inspection of the site by the National Conservancy Council), which are a protected species in this country. 

The wood boring insects shown opposite, lay their eggs in open joints and crevices in timbers and the larvae then feed on and bore through the wood, creating a network of tunnels which damage and weaken the structure. On completion of the larvae's life cycle, which can vary from ten months for the Powder Post Beetle (Lyctus brunneus), to as long as ten years for the Death Watch Beetle (Xestobium rufoviflosum) the beetle bores its way out of the timber to leave behind its characteristic flight hole. The most frequent infestations are the Common Furniture Beetle (Anobium punctatum), which attacks softwoods and hardwoods, mostly in sapwood, and the Wood Boring Weevil (Pentarthum hutton), which attacks sofiwoods and hardwoods, showing some. form of fungal decay.

Our surveyors will make a thorough inspection of a building to locate the areas of active infestation. This will probably involve lifting a selection of floor boards to inspect structural Umbers and also checking the roof voids. In certain roofs, such as churches, this may involve the use of ladders or scaffolding towers. A comprehensive report and specification will then be prepared for the client. 

Areas requiring treatment will be cleared of dust, old building debris and wood fragments. Heavily infested wood will be cut away and replaced with new pre-treated timbers. 

A fresh group of flight holes does not necessarily mean that insect attack is only occurring at that one point in the timbers, as other larvae will have yet to pupate and emerge as beetles. All of the timber in that area will be sprayed to ensure that eradication is complete. A safe and effective treatment with a 30 year guarantee.

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Recently renovated timberwork at St. Michaels Church, Walsgrave.
Detail shows typical section of woodworm damage.