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Wooden floors look fantastic whether they are brand new, vintage or discovered under the carpet or vinyl flooring. Wooden floors can last anywhere from 50 to 100 years if well maintained.
While your timber floors will eventually succumb to wear and tear, there is a greater threat to your wooden flooring than the rigours of time. Wood burrowing and attacking insects can wreak havoc on wooden flooring, ruining the finish and compromising your floor’s structural integrity.
The Usual Suspects
Different regions around the world will have unique wood burrowing and attacking insects; however, some main offenders are common issues around many parts of the globe.
Powderpost Beetles
Powderpost beetles, from the bostrichidae species, are the most common offenders for attacks on wooden floors. Also known as auger beetles, these insects are commonly discovered when homeowners see blistering in the floors, small powdery holes or frass, or sightings around windows or lights.
Many people also hear them rasping or ticking in the flooring on quiet nights, a good sign to book an inspection. If you see or hear any of these telltale signs, you may want to book an inspection before you need to find somewhere new to live while your flooring is being repaired.
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The Common Furniture Beetle
The common furniture beetle, whose official name is Anobium Punctatum, is a wood boring beetle that loves your floors and furniture. Signs of the common furniture beetle include:
- Exit holes in the timber
- Powdery frass on the flooring
- Weakened or damaged timber floors or furniture
These beetles are hard workers, so best to book an inspection with a pest control specialist as soon as you see potential evidence.
Other Wooden Floor Enemies
Many insects can present a risk to your wooden flooring; however, there are some other common pests found around the world that are a common issue, including:
- Termites
- Carpenter ants
- Long-horned beetles
- Woodworms
- Deathwatch beetles
- Weevils and more
While each insect has its own trade mark, signs of infestation are often similar, including small exit holes, powder substances, or obvious weakening or sudden degradation of your flooring.
Unfortunately, there are some circumstances where damage becomes extensive before any signs appear. If you have house insurance, it is wise to ensure your coverage includes damage from wood-destroying insects.
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How to Prevent Bugs from Ruining Your Wooden Floors
The first thing to do if you hear or see something that may indicate a potential wood insect problem is to establish if the infestation is active; this may require the help of a professional pest controller or wood flooring specialist.
Some woodworms and insects are expected in timber flooring, and a few here and there may not equal a threat of infestation. However, if there is a problem, wood specialists or pest controllers can provide a solution, and a carpenter can repair your flooring if required.
If your timber floors are fine, but you want to provide optimal protection, then there are some things you can do to prevent potential disaster.
1. Apply direct chemical insecticides, like surface sprays and solutions
2. Have liquid termiticide and physical termite barriers installed on your property
3. Use boric acid as a barrier and deterrent
4. Ensure floors have airflow to avoid damp
5. Use effective seals and sealants at potential insect access points
You can use every deterrent and measure to protect your wooden floors; however, even the most vigilant homeowner can have bad luck with wood insects. All you can do is apply tips like the ones above and stay on the lookout for unwanted house guests.
