Client: Construction Firm
Our client, a construction firm in Upminster, tasked Timberwise with conducting woodworm treatment during rejuvenation works on a heritage property. This property was a windmill of traditional timber frame construction and was both occupied and furnished at the time of our inspection. The weather conditions were overcast but dry.
Challenges
Timberwise was asked to investigate and address signs of an active woodworm infestation within a historic windmill dating back to approximately 1600. Due to the age and heritage status of the structure, careful consideration was required when planning treatment works.
The project presented several challenges. Deep-seated wood-boring beetle larvae can remain concealed within timber, and may not be immediately affected by surface-applied treatments. Access was also restricted in areas where rafters extended beyond joist ends into deep eaves, limiting the ability to reach all affected timbers.
In addition, the windmill contained specialist machinery timbers, including grindstones and associated equipment, which required protection throughout the treatment process. As the property remained occupied and furnished, additional precautions were necessary to ensure the safe completion of the works while minimising disruption.
Observations
Following a detailed inspection of the property, Timberwise confirmed an active woodworm infestation affecting sections of the windmill’s timber structure. Woodworm is a collective term for a group of wood-boring beetles and weevils. Each species looks, acts, and lives differently, but all of them share a common trait: As their name implies, they burrow into and live off timber structures, only emerging after several years as fully formed beetles, ready to mate and continue the cycle.
Internal investigations identified a slight to moderate infestation of Common Furniture Beetle (Anobium punctatum) within the timber framing. Evidence of Death Watch Beetle (Xestobium rufovillosum) activity was also found within structural timbers.
The infestation was present within both the main timber framing and the roof void. Active attack was particularly noted within the machinery timbers associated with the operation of the windmill.
An external ground-level inspection was also carried out, where no obvious external defects were identified at the time of the survey.
Solutions
To ensure treatment could be completed safely and effectively, a series of preparatory measures were undertaken before timber treatment commenced.
Grindstones and internal signage were carefully covered and protected, while insulation materials were removed or shielded where necessary. Exposed water tanks were also covered to prevent contamination during treatment operations. All timbers designated for treatment were cleaned and prepared to maximise the effectiveness of the insecticidal application.
Timberwise technicians then applied a coating of LignaTek insecticidal fluid by spray application to the primary timber framing throughout the affected areas. Targeted insecticidal treatments were also carried out to specialist machinery timbers where active infestation had been identified.
To improve access to difficult-to-reach areas, long lance spray equipment was used where possible to treat deep eaves and rafter ends extending beyond the main roof structure.
Following completion of the treatment works, all waste materials and debris generated during the process were removed from the property. Timberwise also provided technical guidance regarding potential post-treatment beetle emergence and recommendations for ongoing timber maintenance.
Results
Timberwise successfully identified the wood-boring beetle species present within the property and assessed the extent of the infestation affecting both structural and machinery timbers.
A targeted woodworm treatment programme was implemented across the affected areas, helping to address active infestation within this historic timber-framed windmill while accommodating the challenges presented by an occupied and furnished commercial environment.
Upon completion of the works, the client was provided with a 20-year Timber Treatment Guarantee, offering long-term reassurance regarding the treatment undertaken.
Do You Want Help with a Woodworm Solution?
Our dedicated and experienced team in North London are ready to talk to you about your options for property preservation. Don’t hesitate to call us on 020 8226 6486, or you can request a survey online.
