Wood-boring beetles are one of the most destructive pests homeowners in Ireland may encounter. They thrive in damp conditions and can cause severe structural damage before their presence is even noticed. If left untreated, a wood-boring beetle infestation can lead to costly repairs and compromise a property’s safety.
A professional property survey is essential to identify early signs of wood-boring beetle activity and protect your investment. Here, we explore the key indicators of wood-boring beetles that surveyors look for during a property survey.
Hollow-sounding wood
One of the first signs of wood-boring beetle activity is wood that sounds hollow when tapped. Wood-boring beetles consume timber from the inside out, leaving the outer surface intact but significantly weakened. Surveyors carefully assess wooden beams, floors, and skirting boards for any hollow sounds, which could indicate internal wood-boring beetle damage.
Where to check:
- Wooden beams in attics, basements, and crawl spaces.
- Floorboards and door frames.
- Outdoor wooden decking and fencing.
Mud tubes along walls and foundations
Subterranean wood-boring beetles build mud tubes to travel between their nests and food sources while staying protected from predators and dry air. These pencil-sized tunnels are typically found along foundations, brickwork, or timber structures when a property survey is conducted.
Where to check:
- External and internal walls.
- Crawl spaces and underfloor voids.
- Wooden furniture and structural supports.
Wood-boring beetle droppings (frass)
Drywood wood-boring beetles leave behind tiny, wood-coloured droppings known as frass. These droppings resemble sawdust or coffee grounds and are often found near wooden structures where wood-boring beetles have burrowed.
Where to check:
- Windowsills and skirting boards.
- Near door frames and wooden furniture.
- At the base of wooden structures in sheds or attics.
Warped doors and windows
Wood-boring beetle activity can cause wooden structures to warp due to moisture buildup from their feeding habits. If your doors or windows suddenly become difficult to open or close, it could be a sign of an infestation. Get a professional property surveyor out to assess.
Where to check:
- Wooden window and door frames.
- Internal wooden doors that stick or misalign.
- Cupboards and kitchen units.
Discarded wings and Swarmers
During their reproductive season, wood-boring beetles shed their wings after finding a place to establish a new colony. Finding discarded wings near windowsills or entry points could indicate an infestation nearby.
Where to check:
- Near windowsills and door frames.
- Around light fixtures and ventilation openings.
- Inside garages or garden sheds.
Why early detection of wood-boring beetle matters
Early detection of wood-boring beetles can save Irish homeowners thousands of euros in repairs and prevent serious structural damage. Regular property surveys by professional surveyors can help find infestations before they become a costly problem.
If you’re buying a home or suspect wood-boring beetle activity in your property, scheduling a comprehensive property survey is the best way to safeguard your investment. At iSurv, our expert surveyors provide thorough property assessments to ensure your home stays safe and structurally sound.