Spotting damage in your wooden beams, floorboards or roof trusses can be worrying. But is it caused by woodworm or something else? In many UK homes, timber issues are mistakenly blamed on woodworm when the real culprit is damp, rot, or structural wear.
Signs of Woodworm vs Damp:
Woodworm tends to leave behind clean, small exit holes, along with frass and internal tunnels. In contrast, damp-related damage often causes wood to become discoloured, soft, or flaky. Rot can lead to a musty smell and visible fungal growth.
Common Causes of Confusion:
Old woodworm holes can look like active infestation, especially in older properties. Meanwhile, damp can mimic some of the crumbling effects of long-term woodworm.
Why a Survey is Essential
A professional timber survey is the most reliable way to identify the cause. At Gloucester Woodworm, our surveyors inspect the condition of timber, assess moisture levels, and identify whether woodworm, rot, or both are present.
Treating the wrong issue can be ineffective or even make things worse. Getting the diagnosis right is the first step to lasting protection for your property.
