Woodworm!!!

sticher

I have searched the older threads on this subject but none seem to cover my problem.

I have found some woodworm in a house I am working on. Unfortunately someone else has emulsioned the wood :eek: (before I noticed the woodworm), even though I think the wood must have been treated with something (maybe linseed) before as the brown is coming through the emulsion.

My question is - how do I now treat the wood as it has been covered in emulsion? Will the usual spray on products still work, or will I need to remove the emulsion? (if so how?) . So far I have only noticed one piece of timber has been affected (a lintel across an opening).

Thanks

Fiona

startrekker

I would have thought that the treatment would be effective as it would penetrate the holes left by the worms, however have a look here to buy some treatment and they also have a helpline number you could ring and ask for advice

sticher

Thanks Startrekker, it seems some of that stuff should do the trick!

John_3:16

Sometimes it is hard to treat woodworm. Remember that the holes are from woodworm That has gone not still in the timber. If you can drill some holes in the timber (not to big to take strenght away) in a place that is out the way. The holes need to be in a downward projection, and as deep as you can manage. Over a few weks fill the holes with woodworm killer letting it soak into the timber. When finnished peg the holes and finnish wth paint etc.

Mikeyorks

sticher wrote:

Will the usual spray on products still work, or will I need to remove the emulsion? (if so how?)

Yes - they will still work. But you'd be better sanding (Wire brush if rough timber) most of the emulsion off first (it's not doing much if it's staining). Then vaccing it with a dustbrush to get the dust out of the woodworm flight holes. Then use an injector kit to inject into the flight holes - and a couple of brushed coats over the surface.

Let it dry thoroughly (could be several days - depending on heat / air in the house). Fill off the holes (unless it's roughish timber and you're leaving it that way). Then I'd seal it with a stain blocker - depending on the finish you want - if you think oil is creeping through, before the final decor.

Then I'd carefully check the rest of the wood in the house!