Are Woodworm Holes Always a Problem?

Finding small holes in timber can be alarming for homeowners in Runcorn. Many people immediately assume there is an active woodworm infestation — but in reality, woodworm holes are not always a current problem.

In many properties across Cheshire, timber shows signs of historic wood-boring beetle activity that is no longer active. The key is understanding whether the conditions that allowed the infestation still exist.

At Weather Wise Solutions — a family-run damp and timber specialist — we regularly inspect timbers where holes are present but no longer pose a risk, helping homeowners avoid unnecessary treatments.

🪵 Historic vs Active Woodworm – What’s the Difference?

1️⃣ Historic Woodworm Activity

Historic woodworm is extremely common, especially in older properties. Signs include:

Clean, sharp-edged exit holes
No fresh frass (dust) present
Timber that remains firm and sound
No ongoing moisture source

In these cases, treatment is often not required, provided moisture levels are controlled.

2️⃣ Active Woodworm Infestation

Active infestations are moisture-dependent and usually show:

Fresh frass beneath holes
Soft or weakened timber
New holes appearing over time
Elevated moisture levels in the timber

Without moisture, most wood-boring beetles cannot complete their life cycle.

💧 Why Moisture Is the Key Factor

Woodworm activity is closely linked to timber moisture content. High moisture levels caused by damp, leaks or poor ventilation create ideal conditions for infestation.

Common moisture-related contributors include:

Subfloor damp
Poor ventilation
Roof leaks or plumbing issues
Condensation affecting structural timbers

Addressing moisture often removes the conditions needed for woodworm to remain active.

🔍 How We Assess Woodworm in Runcorn Homes

Our timber inspections follow PCA methodology and include:

Close inspection of hole shape and distribution
Checking for fresh frass or larvae indicators
Moisture testing of affected timbers
Assessment of ventilation and damp risk
Identifying whether activity is historic or current

This ensures treatment is only recommended when genuinely necessary.

🛠️ When Treatment Is (and Isn’t) Required

✔ Treatment Is Usually Required When:

Active infestation is confirmed
Moisture levels remain elevated
Structural timbers are affected
Conditions cannot be controlled by ventilation alone

❌ Treatment Is Often NOT Required When:

Activity is historic
Timbers are dry and sound
No fresh frass is present
Moisture sources have been resolved

Where works are needed, we use materials from trusted suppliers including:
🔗 PAM Ties – https://www.pamties.co.uk/
🔗 Wykamol Group – https://wykamol.com/

All advice and works follow guidance from:
🔗 Federation of Damp – https://federationofdamp.co.uk/
🔗 Damp Proofing Association – https://www.dampproofingassociation.co.uk/

For reassurance, homeowners can also view our independent profiles on:
🔗 TrustATrader – https://www.trustatrader.com/traders/weather-wise-solutions-limited-damp-surveyor-newcastle-under-lyme
🔗 Checkatrade – https://www.checkatrade.com/trades/weatherwisesolutionslimited